Stiff Person Syndrome (SPS) and Social Security Disability
Social Security Disability Lawyer
Typically, applying for and receiving social security disability benefits can take many months. But what if your disabling condition is so severe that you cannot wait? Stiff Person Syndrome (SPS) is a disabling condition on the Compassionate Allowance List, which qualifies an individual for an expedited approval process.
What is SPS?
SPS is a rare neurological condition with characteristics similar to those of an autoimmune disease. This condition is characterized by progressively worsening muscle stiffness in the spine and lower extremities, often triggered by episodes of emotional distress or environmental stimuli such as loud noises. SPS is more common in women than in men, and many SPS patients also have diabetes and/or other autoimmune diseases. There is no cure for the disease and the prognosis for affected individuals varies. SPS requires a multimodal approach to treatment, including immune modulating therapies, physical therapy, muscle relaxants, and psychoactive medications. In some cases the disease can be physically debilitating and even life threatening, but in others, proper treatment can control symptoms and allow SPS sufferers to live a relatively normal life.
SPS Symptoms
Some of the symptoms of SPS include:
- Fluctuating muscle rigidity in the trunk and limbs
- Back pain
- Heightened sensitivity to noise, touch, and emotional distress
- Sleep disturbances
- Muscle spasms
- Abnormal postures
- Paralysis
- Skeletal fractures
- Muscle ruptures
- Joint deformities
If you or a loved one is experiencing these symptoms, it is important to talk with a doctor immediately.
Applying for Social Security Disability Benefits and SPS
SPS qualifies you for social security disability benefits under the Social Security Administration’s guidelines. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with SPS, then you are considered disabled for at least 24 months from the date of diagnosis.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with SPS, contact an experienced social security disability lawyer today. Please call us at 1-800-882-5500 or fill out a free consultation form for a free evaluation of your social security disability case.
