How Fibromyalgia And Other ‘Invisible’ Conditions Get Evaluated In Florida SSDI Claims

Not all disabilities are visible. If you are living with fibromyalgia or a similar condition that causes chronic pain, fatigue, or cognitive issues, you know how deeply it can affect your daily life, even if others can’t see it. While you may be entitled to disability benefits through the Social Security Administration (SSA), getting your claim approved can be challenging.

Because these conditions often lack clear diagnostic tests or visible symptoms, SSA applies specific criteria. Jacksonville Social Security disability lawyer explains the guidelines the SSA follows and steps you can take to strengthen your fibromyalgia claim.

SSA Guidelines for Fibromyalgia and Other Invisible Illnesses

Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain disorder. It causes widespread discomfort, fatigue, cognitive dysfunction, and potential mental health issues, such as increased anxiety or depression. The National Institutes of Health reports that it and similar disorders impact more than four million people in the U.S.

Under administrative policy rulings, the SSA acknowledges fibromyalgia as a disabling condition that is eligible for disability benefits, but it also sets a high bar for proof. To get your claim approved, the SSA expects:

• A documented diagnosis by a licensed physician, typically a rheumatologist or specialist;
• Medical evidence showing repeated reports of widespread pain for at least 3 months;
• Positive findings on physical exams, such as tender points or trigger point mapping;
• Evidence of other symptoms like fatigue, cognitive impairment (“fibro fog”), or depression;
• Documentation ruling out other disorders that could cause similar symptoms.

SSA applies similar scrutiny to other invisible conditions like chronic fatigue syndrome, migraines, or autoimmune disorders without easily measurable markers.

Suffer From An ‘Invisible Condition’ In Florida? How to Strengthen Your Disability Claim

Disability claims for people who have fibromyalgia or other so-called invisible conditions in Florida can be frustrating. Because there’s no single test that proves fibromyalgia or other invisible conditions, those seeking disability benefits through the SSA need to work extra hard on their applications. To strengthen your claim, you’ll need:

• Detailed treatment notes from your doctor;
• Medical opinions from specialists who understand your condition;
• A symptom journal tracking flare-ups, mobility issues, or cognitive lapses;
• Third-party statements from family or coworkers describing daily challenges;
• Evidence highlighting how your condition impacts your ability to stand, walk, concentrate, or sleep.

Consistency across medical records and personal reports is key. The SSA wants to see that your symptoms are not only real but severe enough to keep you from what it terms ‘substantial gainful activity’.

For Help In Getting The Benefits You Are Entitled To, Contact Our Florida Social Security Disability Lawyer

Living with fibromyalgia or other ‘invisible conditions’ does not make your disability any less valid, but it does mean you may need to work harder for benefits.

At Farrell Disability Law, we understand the struggles you face and fight to get you the maximum amount you are entitled to. To build a strong claim, contact our office. Request a consultation with our experienced Florida Social Security disability lawyer in our Jacksonville or Orlando office today.

Sources:

ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK540974/\

ssa.gov/OP_Home/rulings/di/01/SSR2012-02-di-01.html