If you experience chronic pain because of a physical impairment, you may be entitled to Social Security disability benefits. Since even the most debilitating pain will not appear on X-rays or MRI scans, though, you must find other ways to demonstrate the severity of your symptoms. Here is how many claimants who experience chronic pain manage to secure the benefits they deserve. 

How to Document Chronic Pain 

Proving the Underlying Condition 

The Social Security Administration does not award benefits for symptoms. This means that to file a successful disability claim, you must prove your chronic pain is the result of a qualifying condition. Naturally, the strongest evidence will depend on the condition in question. In general, though, this might include diagnostic images, lab tests, and medical records.

Noting Symptoms

Unfortunately, proving that your chronic pain can be attributed to a qualifying condition is not enough to secure benefits. You must also demonstrate that the pain is so debilitating that it keeps you from working. While there is no way to prove pain using hard medical evidence, there are all kinds of documents you can gather to illustrate its severity. For example, consistent symptom complaints documented in your treating physician’s records and keeping a journal that details how the pain is affecting your everyday life can strengthen your claim. 

Gathering Supportive Documents 

Another helpful document is testimony from loved ones explaining how the pain appears to be impacting your well-being. Statements from relevant experts regarding your diagnosis, symptoms, limitations, and prognosis can also help. Legitimate prescriptions for pain medication and the impact of any known side effects may support your claim as well. 

If you want to apply for Social Security benefits, turn to Disability Claim Consultants in Omaha, NE. Since 2000, this agency has been helping injured and disabled parties secure the funds they need. Representing clients throughout Eastern Nebraska and Western Iowa, their Social Security reps have more than 40 years of combined experience advocating for the disabled. To talk to a compassionate member of their team, call (402) 422-1000 or reach out on their website.