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3. Diabetes - Diabetes is a very common disease and many people are afflicted. As such, I have found that in order to win a case based on diabetes, we must show severe complications, such as vision problems, organ damage (i.e. kidney or liver), and/or peripheral neuropathy (numbness and burning in hands and feet). I usually look for clients who have suffered with diabetes for many years and who have been unable to control their blood sugar despite compliance with regular medical care.
4. Arthritis - Like diabetes, arthritis is very common in the population. The most common form of arthritis is osteoarthritis, which is commonly associated with getting older. In order to win an osteoarthritis case, I look for older clients with significant deformity in their hands, feet, knees or spine and regular medical treatment. Other forms of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis, often strike younger people, and are often more severe. Rheumatoid arthritis cases are usually strong cases.
5. HIV/A.I.D.S. - The Social Security regulations provide that HIV cases should be granted when lab reports show very low T-cell levels. My experience has been that most judges view HIV cases somewhat liberally and will grant benefits even if the lab reports do not demonstrate full-blown A.I.D.S. Many HIV cases also involve depression, which can provide another theory for recovery. Again, regular treatment and a supportive treating physician is very helpful.
6. Intestinal, stomach, liver and kidney diseases - It has been my experience that internal organ diseases often produce very significant work activity limitations. For example, a person with irritable bowel syndrome might be able to function at work for a time, but would not be able to maintain employment because of frequent absences or excessive unscheduled breaks at work. A record of regular medical treatment and written support from a treating physician are necessary.
7. Neuromuscular disease cases - over the years I have had a great deal of success representing claimants with neuromuscular diseases such as multiple sclerosis, ALS, post-polio syndrome, peripheral neuropathy, Parkinsonian syndrome, and pernicious anemia. Social Security’s listing for neurological conditions is its most extensive listing meaning that SSA recognizes that these diseases can result in significant impairments to work.
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