Disability for Peripheral Neuropathy. Feet, hands, and balance.

How Social Security evaluates peripheral neuropathy

Social Security’s neurological listings include peripheral neuropathy. In general terms, the listing is met when neuropathy causes extreme difficulty using two limbs, such as standing up from a seat, balancing while standing or walking, or using the arms and hands. It can also be met with a marked limitation in physical functioning together with a marked limitation in one area of mental functioning.

When no listing is met

Most claims are decided on residual functional capacity: what you can still do in a work setting despite your symptoms. Social Security then asks whether any jobs fit those limits. For neuropathy, the questions are how long you can stand and walk, whether you need to elevate your legs or use a cane, and how well you can finger and handle objects.

Evidence that matters

• Nerve conduction studies and EMG results.
• Examination findings: reduced sensation, weakness, absent reflexes, gait changes.
• Records of the underlying condition, such as diabetes control or cancer treatment.
• Falls, foot ulcers or injuries you did not feel, and any prescribed cane.
• Medication tried for nerve pain and its side effects, including drowsiness.

Ask your doctor to complete the peripheral neuropathy form in our free doctor forms. It records your limits in the terms Social Security uses.

Why these claims are denied

• The file documents the diabetes but says little about the neuropathy.
• No nerve testing.
• Hand symptoms left out, so the examiner finds you can do seated work.
• Medication side effects not recorded.

Why hand use matters

Most seated jobs require frequent use of the hands. If numbness or pain limits typing, gripping, or picking up small items, that can rule out sedentary work as well as work on your feet. Make sure your doctor examines and documents your hands.

If you are 50 or older

Under Social Security’s grid rules, a person limited to sedentary work at 50, or light work at 55, may be found disabled depending on education and past work.

Next steps

If you have been denied, you have 60 days to appeal. See what to do after a denial in Arizona, SSDI in Arizona, and SSI in Arizona. There is no fee unless benefits are awarded.

J Disability Law Firm, PLLC · Joseph J. Duerst, Attorney · 18444 N. 25th Ave, Suite 420, Phoenix, AZ 85023 · (602) 607-0000. This page is general information, not legal advice. Reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every case is different. Past results do not predict the outcome of your case.