There is a lot of debate over whether or not scoliosis is a disability. Many people with scoliosis feel that they are disabled, while others feel that their condition does not hinder them in any way. In this blog post, we will explore the definition of disability and discuss whether or not scoliosis meets the criteria. We will also look at how scoliosis can impact daily life and discuss possible accommodations that may be necessary.
What is disability?
The Social Security Administration (SSA) defines disability as “the inability to engage in any substantial gainful activity (SGA) by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment(s) which can be expected to result in death or which has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months.” In order to qualify for disability benefits, an individual must meet this criterion and have a disabling condition that is listed in the SSA’s Blue Book.
Does scoliosis meet the criteria for disability?
It depends. If an individual has severe scoliosis that significantly impacts their ability to work, then they may qualify for disability benefits. However, if an individual has mild scoliosis and is able to work, then they would not qualify for disability benefits. It is important to note that the SSA does not have a specific listing for scoliosis, but there are other listings that may be applicable.
Scoliosis can impact daily life in a variety of ways. Individuals with scoliosis may experience pain, fatigue, and difficulty breathing. They may also have problems with mobility and self-care. Scoliosis can also impact mental health, causing anxiety and depression. There is also the cosmetic affect. In severe cases, scoliosis can lead to disability.
There are a few accommodations that can help individuals with scoliosis, classified as a disability live more comfortably. Scoliosis specific therapy and pain management can help. In severe scoliosis classified as disability, surgery may be necessary to correct the curvature of the spine.
Be clear scoliosis does not automatically qualify an individual for disability benefits. The disability must significantly impact the individual’s ability to work in order to be eligible for benefits.
What can you do if you if you have scoliosis and want to avoid becoming disabled?
The best thing you can do is to get regular checkups and treatment from a doctor specializing in scoliosis therapy. There are many different options available. The sooner you start your research, the sooner you are in a position to make informed choices, take action, and avoid becoming disabled.
There are also some things you can do on your own to help prevent disability. Exercise is one of the most important things you can do. Stretching and strengthening exercises can help keep your spine flexible and strong. Doing these exercises regularly can help reduce the progression of scoliosis.
Good posture is also important in preventing disability from scoliosis. Slouching or hunching over puts extra stress on your spine and can make your scoliosis worse. Try to stand up straight and sit with good posture. This will help take the pressure off your spine and may help reduce the progression of scoliosis. When you are sitting at your desk it is a good idea to have a chair that creates proper support. It is also important to take frequent breaks.
Although there are a vast number of things one can do to help prevent the scoliosis from getting worse, you will travel farther working together with ScoliSMART!
Our ScoliSMART Doctors see and treat the idiopathic scoliosis condition differently. ScoliSMART approach is comprehensive – We treat the whole condition not just the curved spine, which we consider, to be the symptom of the disease.
For example, we consider physical factors along with hormone, neurological transmitters, and genetics variances. By looking beyond the curve, and addressing underlying genetic issues we address miscommunication between your brain and spine that, if left ignored, distort proper growth patterns. Lastly you are actively engaged in your treatment designed and created to serve you and only you.
We, at ScoliSMART have devised a program that looks at the whole of you and not just the curve itself. At the core of the ScoliSMART approach, is ScoliSMART Scoliosis Bootcamp, 5 or 10-day, 4-5 hours/day scoliosis specific exercise treatment designed to reduce the curve first, then help stabilize the spine, long term.
Critical to driving results, during Day 1 of the Bootcamp, our ScoliSMART doctors create our patented ScoliSMART Torso Trainer apparatus, custom, to work with your scoliotic profile, height, weight, strength, etc. and teach you how to do ScoliSMART exercises and stretches that serve you. In the end, you leave seeing and feeling the difference, knowing that the work you came to do on site, served you.
Equally, important, you leave with the tools needed to continue your rehab from home, and repeat, repeat, repeat. We monitor every 3 to 6 months, until you are done growing and assess “Bootcamp Re-boot’s” as needed.
In adults, gravity and lifestyle habits, contribute to curve progression. This is why we focus on adult patients as well. Our goal is to help you avoid disability by reducing your curve and improving your quality of life.
If you or someone you know has scoliosis, don’t wait to get help. The sooner you start treatment, the better your chances of avoiding disability. Scoliosis can progress quickly, so it’s important to get regular checkups and treatment from a doctor specializing in scoliosis.
If you have scoliosis, disability is not inevitable. With early treatment and some simple lifestyle changes, you can greatly reduce your risk of becoming disabled. So do not wait to get started on taking care of yourself! LiveWELL, LoveYOU, because nothing will work unless you do!
