Social Security Disability Law: News and Facts

Hereditary spastic paraplegias (HSPs) are a heterogeneous group of genetic disorders with spastic paraparesis as the main clinical feature. Complex forms may co-occur with other motor, sensory, and cognitive impairment.  Hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP), also called familial spastic paraparesis (FSP), refers to a group of inherited disorders that are characterized by progressive weakness and spasticity (stiffness) of the legs. Early in the disease course, there may be mild gait difficulties and stiffness. These symptoms typically slowly progress so that eventually individuals with HSP may require the assistance of a cane, walker, or wheelchair. Though the primary features of "pure" HSP are progressive lower limb spasticity and weakness, complicated forms may be accompanied by other symptoms. These additional symptoms include impaired vision due to cataracts and problems with the optic nerve and retina of the eye, ataxia (lack of muscle coordination), epilepsy, cognitive im...

Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) is a painfule and serious skin disease that tragically is often misdiagnosed. Because HS usually begins as pimple-like bumps on the skin, many victims (and doctors, too) think their condition is acne, ingrown hair, or boils. As the disease worsens, the pimple-like bumps most commonly erupt in the underarm or groin areas—places that everyday pimples typically do not appear—and grow deep into the skin becoming very painful. To make matters worse, they often rupture, leaking bloodstained pus. There is no cure for Hidradenitis Suppurativa, but some who have the disease can experience long periods of remission. For others, however, their life may be characterized by constant pain and ever-worsening symptoms. If your HS prevents you from working, you may be eligible for Social Security disability benefits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) recognizes Hidradenitis Suppurativa as a disease that can be potentially disabling. In determining your eligibility f...

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) is not just one disorder, but a whole group of impairments currently classified into 13 subtypes. What the subtypes have in common is that they are connective tissue disorders which are often inherited. Generally, EDS is characterized by fragile tissue, and joints and skin that can be stretched further than normal. Ehlers-Danlos syndromes affect both men and women of all ages and all ethnic backgrounds. While there is no cure for EDS, there is treatment for its symptoms, and there are preventative measures that bring relief to some who are affected by the disease. For others, however, their EDS causes joint pain, back pain, heart problems, loss of vision, or other issues which don’t respond to treatment and are so severe that they affect their everyday life and prevent them from working. If you have EDS and are unable to work because of severe symptoms from it, you may be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Inco...