Musculoskeletal System

Musculoskeletal system disorders are conditions that affect the bones, joints and muscles. People who suffer from these disorders may experience anything from mild pain and stiffness to significant physical limitations.

These disorders can be highly debilitating and because of this, spine disorders have their own section in the Social Security Administration (SSA) Blue Book. Some of the spine disorders specifically listed in the Blue Book include:

• Degenerative Disc Disease
• Facet Arthritis
• Herniated Nucleus Pulposus
• Osteoarthritis
• Spinal Arachnoiditis
• Spinal Stenosis
• Vertebra Fractures

For most musculoskeletal conditions, you will need to show that you have been treated by a doctor. Medical imaging (X ray, CAT scan, MRI, etc.) is generally accepted as one form of proof of the disability. Depending on the type of musculoskeletal condition, you may also have to undergo a battery of physical tests.

What if My Disorder Is Not Listed in the Blue Book?

Other musculoskeletal system disorders that don’t appear in the Blue Book may also qualify as disabling. The victims of these disorders may receive medical-vocational allowances if they cannot perform gainful work. The SSA may use various factors to determine whether a person can work gainfully. These include the person’s physical limitations, age, job skills and relevant knowledge.