As September is National Spina Bifida Awareness Month, our social security disability lawyers in Illinois want to shed light on this birth defect. Spina bifida is a condition that affects the spine and it is apparent at birth. This is a neural tube defect (NTD) that can happen at any point along the spine, resulting in damage to the spinal cord and nerves. Spina bifida occurs when the neural tube doesn’t completely close, causing the backbone to stay open and it is unable to protect the spinal cord. It’s important to note that this condition forms before birth and develops in the womb.
Meeting the Necessary Requirements
Children who are suffering from spina bifida may meet the Blue Book qualifications in different ways.
- Compression of the spinal nerve root: Nerve root compression is characterized by the loss of motor function, pain, limited spine movement and a positive leg raise test. Your child will meet the qualifications if one or multiple of the above side effects are met.
- Neurological impairments impacting movement: If your child is suffering from neurological impairments as the result of spina bifida, they must show motor dysfunction that prevents them from walking or using his or her arms, a severe motor dysfunction, all four extremities impacted, or hydrocephalus that results in high fluid pressure in the brain.
- Complications from spina bifida are also grounds for application approval, including seizures, cerebral palsy, learning disabilities, depression, skin problems, gastrointestinal disorders, meningitis, urinary tract infections, loss of bladder control or limited/no use of the legs.
What If My Child Doesn’t Qualify?
If you see that your child does not qualify for benefits via the above guidelines, know that receiving benefits is still possible. We know what the Social Security Administration needs to see in order to help your child qualify. If your child is 18 years of age or older, they must be evaluated as an adult. Our team is happy to help with this as well.
Contact Us for More Information
Our Social Security Disability attorneys in Illinois can provide you with guidance throughout your application process. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.
