Disability Law Group recently secured a successful outcome for a 60-year-old veteran, who filed for Disability Insurance Benefits (DIB) after facing several disabling medical conditions that rendered him unable to continue working. This claimant filed his application on July 23, 2021, alleging disability starting April 10, 2020, following decades of work in demanding roles, most recently as a laborer recruiter/transportation manager for Minute Man Staffing Services.
Background: A Veteran in Need
Our client had proudly served in the U.S. military from 1981 to 1987. Despite overcoming various life challenges, including obtaining his GED, his medical issues took a severe toll. Since March 2020, he has been unable to work due to a combination of physical and neurological impairments.
Medical Challenges
The claimant faced numerous serious health conditions, including but not limited to:
- Chronic liver disease with cirrhosis and ascites (fluid retention in the abdomen)
- Diabetes type 2
- Double hernias
- Severe sciatic nerve pain in his left leg
- Bilateral knee and foot pain
- Neuropathy
- Hypertension
- Osteoarthritis
His mobility was severely impacted. By March 2022, he reported being able to walk only a quarter to a half mile before needing to rest for 15 minutes. He experienced difficulty standing for more than an hour, sitting for extended periods, and had significant trouble with physical tasks such as squatting and climbing stairs. His reports indicated that he could only lift up to 20 pounds, and even routine activities, such as paying attention or sleeping, were impaired due to his health issues.
Corroborating Medical Evidence
The claimant’s medical record firmly supported his allegations of disability. Notably:
- Ascites and Cirrhosis: He first experienced ascites in December 2019. This painful and recurrent condition required him to undergo regular paracentesis procedures, with the last one documented in 2021.
- Spinal and Joint Conditions: July 2021 medical records revealed moderate osteoarthritis in his hips and knees, as well as mild to moderate spinal stenosis and advanced facet arthropathy. These conditions were confirmed by MRI and X-ray results.
- Knee and Mobility Problems: By November 2023, a physical therapy report documented knee effusion and soreness, while an X-ray showed bone-on-bone deformity in both knees.
- Vascular Issues: In November 2023, Dr. Jerius strongly recommended compression hose and encouraged him to elevate his feet due to significant venous return issues. The doctor also noted his chronic knee pain and prior cortisone injections for his knees.
The Impact on His Ability to Work
Given the claimant’s conditions, he was unable to perform his past relevant work, which required medium-level exertion. His physical impairments severely limited his ability to stand, walk, and perform tasks essential for this type of employment. In addition to his physical limitations, the medical record demonstrated that he had difficulty staying on task, further impacting his employability.
The Path to Approval
Attorney Erin Rich presented a compelling argument during the claimant’s SSD hearing before an Administrative Law Judge arguing that his health conditions made it impossible for him to continue any kind of medium exertion work. She further established that his physical limitations, in conjunction with his age and work history, meant he could not even perform light work under Social Security’s grid rules. Specifically, under Grid Rule 202.06, individuals aged 60 or older who are limited to light work and have no transferable skills are directed to be found “disabled.”
Outcome
The Administrative Law Judge agreed with Mrs. Rich’s arguments and granted the claimant the SSD benefits he desperately needed. This case is a prime example of how essential thorough documentation, medical support, and a well-constructed legal argument are to achieving success in disability claims.
If you or a loved one are struggling with disabilities and are unsure about navigating the complexities of the Social Security system, our firm, Disability Law Group, is here to help. We take pride in advocating for those who deserve the support they need to lead a life of dignity despite their medical challenges.
