Posted 12/24/2011 10:18 AM (GMT 0)
Sorry you got another denial. I know how you feel. After 2 years and going in front of an ALJ I finally received my SSDI but going in front of the judge was nerve racking, there was so much at stake in that 20-30 minutes they give you to state your case. At this point, if you haven't already, get a lawyer because you will need one at the hearing.
I know that your physical limitations are severe but now you have to prove it to social security. During the trial the judge will ask questions about what your limitations are, how the pain affects your ability to do things, how often or how long you need to rest during the day. When answering his questions you need to be specific. I told the judge that I was still able to complete my personal care and take care of my home but that I had to pace myself and limit the amount I could do at one time. Such as I can't vacuum the whole house in one day, I will vacuum one room then a couple of days later do another room, if I do more my right shoulder will hurt the next day making it difficult to complete my personal care. I can do laundry but only one load per day due to the fact that bending into the dryer causes pain in my lower back and folding the clothes will cause spasms in my shoulder & neck area. See what I mean by specific.
Make sure you tell the judge how often you rest during the day and where (on the bed or recliner), also if you use heat or cold during these rest periods to alleviate your pain.
I could write a book here. There are actually alot of good videos on youtube that will give you an idea of what to expect at your hearing. Also, a good website for information is SSDFacts.com. Don't get to upset over the letter. On both of my denials social security stated that they realized that I had severe back issues but that I could do blah, blah, blah. Ya, whatever!