Jill Kolodner | October 31, 2024 | Personal Injury
There are as many types of disabilities as there are courageous ways in which people surmount them. Understanding what these disabilities are and how you may be able to receive compensation is crucial.
Here are the top 10 (based on data from the Social Security Administration (SSA).
1. Musculoskeletal Disorders
The most common disability category is musculoskeletal disorder, and these include:
- Arthritis: Inflammation of the joints causing pain and stiffness.
- Degenerative Disc Disease: Wear and tear on the spinal discs leading to back pain and reduced mobility.
- Herniated Disc: A damaged spinal disc that presses on nerves, causing pain or numbness.
- Osteoporosis: A condition where bones become weak and brittle, increasing fracture risk.
- Muscular Dystrophy: A group of diseases causing muscle weakness and loss over time.
Symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe disability.
2. Mood Disorders
With mood disorders, it’s hard to maintain relationships, focus and manage stress.
This category includes:
- Depression
- Bipolar disorder
- Anxiety disorder
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)
While therapy and medication can help, many people still struggle.
3. Nervous System and Neurological Disorders
Here are some types of nervous system and neurological disorders:
- Epilepsy: A condition characterized by recurrent seizures that affect brain function.
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS): A disease where the immune system attacks the covering of the nerves, leading to problems with movement and balance.
- Parkinson’s Disease: A progressive disorder that causes tremors, stiffness, and difficulty with coordination.
- Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): Damage to the brain caused by a blow or jolt to the head, which can result in cognitive and physical impairments.
- Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS): A progressive disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, leading to muscle weakness and atrophy.
The unpredictability of these conditions can add further challenges.
4. Cardiovascular Conditions
Heart disease, hypertension, and other cardiovascular conditions cause fatigue, shortness of breath, and chest pain. They are often chronic and progressive, meaning they worsen over time.
5. Schizophrenia and Other Psychotic Disorders
Schizophrenia and related psychotic disorders cause hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking. This makes it extremely difficult for individuals to work or interact socially. Schizophrenia, in particular, requires ongoing medical management and often leads to long-term disability.
6. Respiratory Disorders
Chronic respiratory conditions like COPD, asthma, and emphysema are common disabilities. They make it hard for people to breathe, which limits their ability to be physically active.
7. Intellectual Disabilities
Intellectual disabilities, such as developmental delays and Down Syndrome, are another common reason for SSDI claims. Individuals with intellectual disabilities often face challenges in communication, learning, and performing everyday tasks. While some individuals can work with the right support, others may need long-term care.
8. Injuries
Injuries from workplace accidents or car crashes can result in temporary or permanent disabilities. In some cases, the injured person may never be able to return to their previous job or work at the same level as before.
9. Digestive Disorders
Digestive conditions like Crohn’s disease, IBS, and liver disease seriously impact daily life. These disorders require medical care and can cause sudden flare-ups, making it tough to keep a steady job.
10. Endocrine Disorders
Endocrine disorders, including diabetes and thyroid conditions, round out the top 10 disabilities. Diabetes, in particular, is a leading cause of complications such as nerve damage, vision loss, and kidney disease. These complications can limit an individual’s mobility, sensory perception, and ability to work. Managing endocrine disorders often requires consistent medical care and lifestyle adjustments, which may still not fully alleviate symptoms.
Contact the Baltimore Personal Injury Law Firm of WGK Personal Injury Lawyers Today For Help
If you or a loved one is struggling with a disability that affects your ability to work or perform daily activities, it’s crucial to seek legal advice. An attorney can navigate the complexities of your case, work with experts, gather evidence, negotiate, and more. With the right legal guidance, you can focus on managing your condition while your attorney handles the legal aspects.
For more information contact the Baltimore personal injury law firm of WGK Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free initial consultation.
WGK Personal Injury Lawyers
14 W Madison St, Baltimore, MD 21201, United States
(410) 837-2144
WGK Personal Injury Lawyers – Dundalk Office
7329 Holabird Ave Suite 3, Dundalk, MD 21222
By appointment only
(410) 970-3080
