By Chris Sharry on November 5th, 2024 in Disability, Disability Applying, Social Security Disability
Filing for disability benefits can be a long and arduous process. There are many forms to complete, potential examinations to attend, and evidence to submit. Many disability claims include pain as part of the reason that many individuals are no longer able to work. Pain is an invisible symptom which means that it can be hard to document. Although you may have diagnostic tests to show you have a certain medical condition, the pain associated with the condition is purely subjective and may be difficult for an examiner or doctor to assess the severity of the pain level.
Using a pain diary may help to bolster your disability claim. This journal is used to document your day-to-day pain level. You can record:
- when you feel the pain
- where the pain is in your body
- what the pain feels like
- the level of pain on a scale of 0 to 10, where 0 means no pain and 10 means severe pain
- whether the pain stops you from sleeping or doing daily activities
- the medicines you have used, and any other treatments or therapies that help
- anything that makes the pain better
- anything that makes the pain worse.
How To Record Your Pain
You can document your pain in a paper journal, which can be purchased online for less than $10. There are also several apps that you can download to easily record your pain. As you document your pain, you should bring the journal/diary with you to your medical appointments. This information will be useful to your doctor to discuss treatment, and can be made part of your permanent medical record. Once this information is part of your medical record, it will be part of the evidentiary record for your Social Security Disability claim.
Navigating the complexities of a disability claim can be challenging, especially when pain is a significant factor. Ensuring your pain is well-documented can make a difference in your claim’s success. If you need assistance with filing for Social Security Disability benefits or understanding how best to support your claim, contact Attorney Chris Sharry today. Our team is here to provide the guidance and support you need throughout the disability claims process.
