While we have written before about Muscular Dystrophy, this post specifically discusses SSA Disability for Myotonic Dystrophy. If you or someone you care for is unable to work due to DM read on for how the Social Security Administration will evaluate your claim for disability benefits.

Myotonic Dystrophy (a.k.a. dystrophia myotonica, myotonia atrophica or myotonia dystrophica) is a form of muscular dystrophy which causes progressive muscle weakness and shrinkage. DM is the most common form of muscular dystrophy among adults of European descent. Myotonic Dystrophy is broken into two groups, DM1 and DM2, with DM2 being the milder version of the two.

Symptoms from DM are progressive. Usually, the younger an individual is when diagnosed, the greater the severity of the disease. Symptoms from DM1 usually involve the lower legs, hands, neck, and face. While DM2 primarily involves the muscles of the neck, shoulders, elbows, and hips.

SSA has a compassionate allowance list which helps individuals with certain disorders qualify for benefits more quickly. Myotonic Dystrophy is on that list, POMS DI 213220.43.

In order to meet the above Compassionate Allowance, the individual has to meet the requirements of 11.13, Muscular Dystrophy. This listing requires:

11.13 Muscular dystrophy, characterized by A or B:

A. Disorganization of motor function in two extremities resulting in an extreme limitation in the ability to stand up from a seated position, balance while standing or walking, or use the upper extremities  OR

B. Marked limitation in physical functioning, and in one of the following:

  1. Understanding, remembering, or applying information or
  2. Interacting with others or
  3. Concentrating, persisting, or maintaining pace; or
  4. Adapting or managing oneself.

The above listing requires significant physical or mental difficulties from DM. In my clients with DM, balance and mental difficulties have been serious issues. Even if you do not meet the above listing, you can still be found disabled based on the Medical-Vocational Guidelines (a.k.a. “the grids”) if you are over the age or 50 or on the combination of your impairments.

If you are unable to work, you should apply for SSA disability for Myotonic Dystrophy as soon as possible. The Bishop Law Firm represents disability clients in Raleigh, Cary, Durham, Fayetteville and other areas in North Carolina. We do not get paid unless we win and we offer free case reviews, (919) 615-3095.