HEAD INJURIES LEADING TO NEUROLOGICAL PROBLEMS
A head injury can result in various serious neurological problems or no problems at all. It depends on the extent of the injury and location in the brain as shown on MRI scans. No matter how it affects you initially, according to the rules of social security your impairment must last at least 12 months or be expected to last 12 months. This is important to know since you may be very disabled in the beginning regarding your ability to walk, speak or use your hand, but with treatment you may show significant improvement and therefore be denied an allowance.
SEIZURES
Head injuries may cause a variety of problems including seizures.
Head injuries may also result in problems speaking causing one to not be able to produce speech or be understood.
In addition, paralysis of a leg and hand may occur. If a leg is involved, you may be able to walk, but with a limp and be unsteady; A cane may be needed. Also, you may have difficulty using your hand causing problems with grasping and holding objects as well as having difficulty with writing, typing or picking up small objects.
PHYSICAL EXAMINATION
All of these problems will be noted in your doctor’s notes and be reviewed by individuals at the state level which is called the DDS. If the medical information is scanty or insufficient to determine the full extent of one’s disability, the state may order a consultative examination which consists of a complete physical examination. During the exam, he will observe the manner in which you walk and whether it is normal or abnormal showing evidence of unsteadiness. The CE will also state whether a cane is medically needed for balance. If your hand is involved he will note how well you use your hands.
The state will make their decision based on several factors; namely, your age, level of education and past work history associated with how long you can walk and how well you use your hands.
If you are denied, seeking the services of an attorney familiar with disability cases my be helpful since the whole process of dealing with social security can be difficult and confusing.