It starts as a nagging pain that eventually turns into numbness and weakness in the in one or both hands and/or arms. Caused by repetitive motions, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a common ailment that is covered by the Blue Book issued by the Social Security Administration (SSA). However, not all Carpal Tunnel cases qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. If you suffer from Carpal Tunnel and cannot seek relief from the SSA Blue Book, a form called Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) might help you receive disability benefits. The key is to know how to complete the RFC form to bolster your benefits claim.
What is the RFC?
The RFC gives the SSA a tool to rate the functional capacity of a Social Security Disability applicant. An RFC form helps applicants that do not meet SSA blue Book criteria to apply for benefits. The SSA reviews an RFC form to determine whether the applicant meets the disability standard established by the federal agency. You will not receive approval for benefits unless you submit an RFC form.
Submitting an RFC for Carpal Tunnel
Carpal Tunnel can inflict professionals that work in a wide variety of occupations, from a construction site foreman to warehouse employee who stocks inventory throughout the day. A representative from the SSA’s Disability Determination Services (DDS) examines your RFC application to determine whether the symptoms associated with Carpal Tunnel make a direct negative impact on your job performance. A DDS examiner takes your RFC form to a medical consultant to review the symptoms associated with Carpal Tunnel.
Let’s say you work as an administrative assistant, which is a position that requires you to type throughout the day. The development of Carpal Tunnel makes it difficult to perform your normal job functions. An RFC form should document the physical issues you have at work that prevent you from completing your job duties in a timely manner. You can also use an RFC form to demonstrate that Carpal Tunnel makes it difficult for you to train for another position with the same company or organization.
Medical Records You Should include with an RFC
Carpal Tunnel produces several unique symptoms that need to be documented and attached to an RFC form. You should include x-rays of the injured area on the hand and/or arm. If Carpal Tunnel has only impacted the health of one arm and/or hand, taking x-rays of the healthy arm and/or hand can provide evidence that confirms the existence of Carpal Tunnel symptoms on the damaged arm and/or hand. You should also include the official diagnosis given by your physician, as well as a document that shows the treatment provided for the injury. Although the SSA does not mention it, it is a good idea for your doctor to complete an RFC form to add credibility to your application for SSA disability benefits.
Complete a Free Case Evaluation
Filing for SSA disability benefits should not be a guessing game. The stakes are too high for you to go through the benefits process, without first gaining a good idea about the severity of your Carpal Tunnel symptoms. If you think your Carpal Tunnel symptoms will force you out of your current job for a minimum of 12 months, you should complete a free case evaluation to determine whether filing an RFC form is a good idea. The SSA typically responds to RFC applications in a timely manner.
