Guest guest Posted June 19, 2009 Report Share Posted June 19, 2009 Hay Dianne, thank you for the words of encouragment! Two other friends of mine also mentioned about everybody being denied on the first try as well. I will have to stay vigilant in my pursuit. Now, I'm trying to figure out my next move and contemplating the retaining of legal assistance. I just don't want to have to pay the 25% if successful. Besides that website you list, do you have any specific advice on what I could do to help my chance. How long should I wait to file an appeal? Also, I noticed that my medical records from other doctors were not obtained by the adjudicator. I know that the both of the doctors are no longer in practice because they were taken down by the DEA. Do you know how I might be able to proceed to obtain these missing records? Thanks much! Please know that I'm so sorry that you and some of your family members have been " cursed " with so many medical problems. I will hold a place for you in my prayers. -- Dave ________________________________ From: Dianne <dianne12315@...> spinal problems Sent: Friday, June 19, 2009 5:43:55 AM Subject: Re: Good morning<Dave> Good Morning Dave, Don't give up with SSD. They always deny your claim the first time. I know this for a fact because I went through it with my mother. She had a lot of medical problems ranging from Breast Cancer to Liver Disease and they denied her the first time too. The worst case with SSD I ever saw was with my older brother. He was diagnosed with Stage 4 Colon Cancer in Nov of '93 and was considered terminal. They denied him the first time too and told him to reapply. He did and was approved in September of '94. He passed away on 11/18/94. Although they didn't pay him for long directly they did have to pay for his 6 yr old daughter till she reached 18. Don't get discouraged. It can be a long process but in the end you might get it. You might find the following link helpful. Look it over and click on the part that days " Diseases and Conditions. " http://www.disabili tysecrets. com/ <http://www.disabili tysecrets. com/> I hope this was of some use to you. Dianne It's just that to me, on paper, I thought my condition was severe enough, in and of itself. Oh well, no big deal. I'll just keep trying. I have always been a physical person and enjoy actual labor and manual activities, but you are correct, I do need to switch things up and use my brain. I have not read any red or green book so I'm no expert. Although, maybe I should. I'm just thinking about the question of having depression and brain " problems " . Maybe I can use my brain to get diagnosed with some sort of mental problem. I have studied psychology and would know what to overexaggerate. Nah, that's not me. I could not and would not ever do such. Anyhow, what is the EMG testing that you mention. I have not had it performed, nor have I ever heard of it. Dave Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 19, 2009 Report Share Posted June 19, 2009 Dave, You do not want to be approved because of psych reasons if you have other medical problems. The red and green book are on line and list the severity of the disease needed to qualify for SSD....I am not sure what type of work you did....but basically SSD is interested if you have been performing physical labor and you are educated can you now sit at a desk and say use a puter to gain employment. The younger you are the harder it is to be approved. An EMG is an electo mylo gram which shows the conductivity of your nerves....which by definition if you have damage to the nerves your back disease is severe.... Have you been seen by pain management? I was surprised when you listed that you had difficulty getting docs to RX vicodin.... Also I must add, that not everyone is turned down the first time. I was approved on the first try.....8 weeks after applying. If I can help you at all...feel free to emal me.. Deb RN ________________________________ From: D Chavez <chavezd@...> spinal problems Sent: Friday, June 19, 2009 10:54:37 AM Subject: Re: Good morning<Dave> Hay Dianne, thank you for the words of encouragment! Two other friends of mine also mentioned about everybody being denied on the first try as well. I will have to stay vigilant in my pursuit. Now, I'm trying to figure out my next move and contemplating the retaining of legal assistance. I just don't want to have to pay the 25% if successful. Besides that website you list, do you have any specific advice on what I could do to help my chance. How long should I wait to file an appeal? Also, I noticed that my medical records from other doctors were not obtained by the adjudicator. I know that the both of the doctors are no longer in practice because they were taken down by the DEA. Do you know how I might be able to proceed to obtain these missing records? Thanks much! Please know that I'm so sorry that you and some of your family members have been " cursed " with so many medical problems. I will hold a place for you in my prayers. -- Dave ____________ _________ _________ __ From: Dianne <dianne12315> spinedisorderssuppo rtgroup@gro ups.com Sent: Friday, June 19, 2009 5:43:55 AM Subject: Re: Good morning<Dave> Good Morning Dave, Don't give up with SSD. They always deny your claim the first time. I know this for a fact because I went through it with my mother. She had a lot of medical problems ranging from Breast Cancer to Liver Disease and they denied her the first time too. The worst case with SSD I ever saw was with my older brother. He was diagnosed with Stage 4 Colon Cancer in Nov of '93 and was considered terminal. They denied him the first time too and told him to reapply. He did and was approved in September of '94. He passed away on 11/18/94. Although they didn't pay him for long directly they did have to pay for his 6 yr old daughter till she reached 18. Don't get discouraged. It can be a long process but in the end you might get it. You might find the following link helpful. Look it over and click on the part that days " Diseases and Conditions. " http://www.disabili tysecrets. com/ <http://www.disabili tysecrets. com/> I hope this was of some use to you. Dianne It's just that to me, on paper, I thought my condition was severe enough, in and of itself. Oh well, no big deal. I'll just keep trying. I have always been a physical person and enjoy actual labor and manual activities, but you are correct, I do need to switch things up and use my brain. I have not read any red or green book so I'm no expert. Although, maybe I should. I'm just thinking about the question of having depression and brain " problems " . Maybe I can use my brain to get diagnosed with some sort of mental problem. I have studied psychology and would know what to overexaggerate. Nah, that's not me. I could not and would not ever do such. Anyhow, what is the EMG testing that you mention. I have not had it performed, nor have I ever heard of it. Dave Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 19, 2009 Report Share Posted June 19, 2009 Approximately 30% off all applicants are approved the first time. Why such a tiny number? Because Doctor's notes are not that thorough. GET AN ATTORNEY!!! I have one and seems it's working out fabulously my 2nd time around. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ > > It's just that to me, on paper, I thought my condition was severe > enough, in and of itself. Oh well, no big deal. I'll just keep trying. > I have always been a physical person and enjoy actual labor and manual > activities, but you are correct, I do need to switch things up and use > my brain. I have not read any red or green book so I'm no expert. > Although, maybe I should. I'm just thinking about the question of > having depression and brain " problems " . Maybe I can use my brain to get > diagnosed with some sort of mental problem. I have studied psychology > and would know what to overexaggerate. Nah, that's not me. I could not > and would not ever do such. Anyhow, what is the EMG testing that you > mention. I have not had it performed, nor have I ever heard of it. > > Dave > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 20, 2009 Report Share Posted June 20, 2009 Okay Deb, psych reasons are out of the question. I will look into this EMG, which you talk about. It sounds like the exact thing that I need to help my SSD chances. The one question I have about this test is, will the results be constant or fluxuate? My thinking is that the test works in conjunction with the pain. That is, if I am having a good day, the resluts will not show anything. If I'm having a bad day when the test is performed, then the test will show low conductivity and extreme damage. Is this so? Hopefully, I can take one. Although, unless I'm having instances of great pain, I have no difficulties with the use of my extremities. Lately, I have been experiencing tingling in each of my hands. However, my lower back issue is the primary problem. Lately, and since I left the pain management clinc, I have not had any of the lower limb issues as I have previously had. I'm not sure why this is, but I'm thinking that the Vicodin could be playing a role. But yes, I have visited two different pain clinics and have experienced extreme difficulty in obtaining a script of hydrocodone or anything along those lines. Thanks a load! -- Dave ________________________________ From: Debra <i_ownaberner@...> spinal problems Sent: Friday, June 19, 2009 5:48:26 PM Subject: Re: Good morning<Dave> Dave, You do not want to be approved because of psych reasons if you have other medical problems. The red and green book are on line and list the severity of the disease needed to qualify for SSD....I am not sure what type of work you did....but basically SSD is interested if you have been performing physical labor and you are educated can you now sit at a desk and say use a puter to gain employment. The younger you are the harder it is to be approved. An EMG is an electo mylo gram which shows the conductivity of your nerves....which by definition if you have damage to the nerves your back disease is severe.... Have you been seen by pain management? I was surprised when you listed that you had difficulty getting docs to RX vicodin.... Also I must add, that not everyone is turned down the first time. I was approved on the first try.....8 weeks after applying. If I can help you at all...feel free to emal me.. Deb RN ____________ _________ _________ __ From: D Chavez <chavezdymail (DOT) com> spinedisorderssuppo rtgroup@gro ups.com Sent: Friday, June 19, 2009 10:54:37 AM Subject: Re: Good morning<Dave> Hay Dianne, thank you for the words of encouragment! Two other friends of mine also mentioned about everybody being denied on the first try as well. I will have to stay vigilant in my pursuit. Now, I'm trying to figure out my next move and contemplating the retaining of legal assistance. I just don't want to have to pay the 25% if successful. Besides that website you list, do you have any specific advice on what I could do to help my chance. How long should I wait to file an appeal? Also, I noticed that my medical records from other doctors were not obtained by the adjudicator. I know that the both of the doctors are no longer in practice because they were taken down by the DEA. Do you know how I might be able to proceed to obtain these missing records? Thanks much! Please know that I'm so sorry that you and some of your family members have been " cursed " with so many medical problems. I will hold a place for you in my prayers. -- Dave ____________ _________ _________ __ From: Dianne <dianne12315> spinedisorderssuppo rtgroup@gro ups.com Sent: Friday, June 19, 2009 5:43:55 AM Subject: Re: Good morning<Dave> Good Morning Dave, Don't give up with SSD. They always deny your claim the first time. I know this for a fact because I went through it with my mother. She had a lot of medical problems ranging from Breast Cancer to Liver Disease and they denied her the first time too. The worst case with SSD I ever saw was with my older brother. He was diagnosed with Stage 4 Colon Cancer in Nov of '93 and was considered terminal. They denied him the first time too and told him to reapply. He did and was approved in September of '94. He passed away on 11/18/94. Although they didn't pay him for long directly they did have to pay for his 6 yr old daughter till she reached 18. Don't get discouraged. It can be a long process but in the end you might get it. You might find the following link helpful. Look it over and click on the part that days " Diseases and Conditions. " http://www.disabili tysecrets. com/ <http://www.disabili tysecrets. com/> I hope this was of some use to you. Dianne It's just that to me, on paper, I thought my condition was severe enough, in and of itself. Oh well, no big deal. I'll just keep trying. I have always been a physical person and enjoy actual labor and manual activities, but you are correct, I do need to switch things up and use my brain. I have not read any red or green book so I'm no expert. Although, maybe I should. I'm just thinking about the question of having depression and brain " problems " . Maybe I can use my brain to get diagnosed with some sort of mental problem. I have studied psychology and would know what to overexaggerate. Nah, that's not me. I could not and would not ever do such. Anyhow, what is the EMG testing that you mention. I have not had it performed, nor have I ever heard of it. Dave Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 20, 2009 Report Share Posted June 20, 2009 Shoot, 30% seems like a good # to me! Too bad I wasn't one of them. I really thought I would be approved because my pain has been occurring for at least 10 years, when I begain going to doctors. I have been visiting with a good amount of doctors since then. I have many records for them to view. Only recently, because primary doc wants to end my long-term narcotic use, have I had more ESI's which didn't work, and am now looking at surgery. When I have been using narcotics, I have been able to handle and cope with the pain, not needing surgery or any other form of treatment. The job was being handled just fine. When I was in college 2 years ago, one of the doctor university doctors that I had seen was so nice and told me to look into Social Security. When I did, as always, it was a waste of time. It's just like all the other times when my loan companies or other places ask if I'm disabled. Because I can work, I always tell them no. As a result, they tell me that nothing can be done. Now, I have finally learned some things about the systems. I don't lie, but may tell them more about the times when I am at my worse than when I am at my best. Exactly what more does your attorney do that a lone applicant cannot or doesn't do for themself? Also, how did you go about securing your attorney? Should I just open the phone book and look for one? Please help! Are you forced to pay them 25% if you win? Can that percent be lowered or are there legal centers that could do the work for free? DAve ________________________________ From: pat040394 <ltpat228@...> spinal problems Sent: Friday, June 19, 2009 5:58:01 PM Subject: Re: Good morning<Dave> Approximately 30% off all applicants are approved the first time. Why such a tiny number? Because Doctor's notes are not that thorough. GET AN ATTORNEY!!! I have one and seems it's working out fabulously my 2nd time around. ~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~ > > It's just that to me, on paper, I thought my condition was severe > enough, in and of itself. Oh well, no big deal. I'll just keep trying. > I have always been a physical person and enjoy actual labor and manual > activities, but you are correct, I do need to switch things up and use > my brain. I have not read any red or green book so I'm no expert. > Although, maybe I should. I'm just thinking about the question of > having depression and brain " problems " . Maybe I can use my brain to get > diagnosed with some sort of mental problem. I have studied psychology > and would know what to overexaggerate. Nah, that's not me. I could not > and would not ever do such. Anyhow, what is the EMG testing that you > mention. I have not had it performed, nor have I ever heard of it. > > Dave > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 20, 2009 Report Share Posted June 20, 2009 Sure, maybe your yellow pages is chocked full of Lawyers; however; choose an Attorney who specializes in disability. Let me ask you, Dave: Did you have each of your Physicians fill out restriction papers on you and your condition then forward these forms to the SSA? That is just ONE reason to hire a Professional. Oh yeh - and once you sign with up with an Attorney, you have to stop working...because obviously if you are able to work, you are not disabled. Also, there's a wonderful site here on dedicated to disability issues. Some of the posters are retired SSA employees and know the inside scoop. Below I've provided their link. ssadisability/ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ > > > > It's just that to me, on paper, I thought my condition was severe > > enough, in and of itself. Oh well, no big deal. I'll just keep trying. > > I have always been a physical person and enjoy actual labor and manual > > activities, but you are correct, I do need to switch things up and use > > my brain. I have not read any red or green book so I'm no expert. > > Although, maybe I should. I'm just thinking about the question of > > having depression and brain " problems " . Maybe I can use my brain to get > > diagnosed with some sort of mental problem. I have studied psychology > > and would know what to overexaggerate. Nah, that's not me. I could not > > and would not ever do such. Anyhow, what is the EMG testing that you > > mention. I have not had it performed, nor have I ever heard of it. > > > > Dave > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 20, 2009 Report Share Posted June 20, 2009 Hello Dianne, Thank you for so much! It is so sad and unfortunate to hear about your loss. I'm sorry. Just last month I had all the tests for the back. In one CT report, it states, " that at L5-S1 there is an asymmetrical disc bulge. This finding in combination with moderate ligamentous thickening causes a very mild central stenosis and moderate-to-severe bilateral neural foraminal stenosis. " This is my primary problem area issue. My neurosurgeon says that my nevers have such a tiny pathway that they are constantly being pinched. Only just recently seeing my first and only neuro, this could be part of the reason. It's just that he told me that my condition is as the the report lists, " severe " . Because of this, I have been hesitant to obtain legal assistance. However, I'm hearing lots of support for the contrary, and will look into retaining a lawyer. I will also try obtaining my " lost " medical records. I'm sure that they have got to help. Don't you? I am a young 30 and have held many, basic jobs. For the most part of my working years, I have been enrolled in college. My past jobs include fast food & sit down restaurant cook, substitute teacher grades k-12, wildlife animal technician, security guard, busser/dishwasher, janitor, laundry attendant, college tutor, retail sales clerk, steel laborer, and a student worker which consisted of records keeping, mail handling, copying, stocking, inventory, and medical equipment sterilization. I had no clue about possibly becoming diabetic due to narcotics! It is now making me wonder, even though I had blood test a few months ago. My dad has been taking meds for it at least a year now. So maybe I might be next. I guess I really need to rethink about continuing the pain meds and have surgery. Just like your uncle, I too am healthy and active. I started on Darvocet and have taken many others up to Oxycontin. As I have had issues with narcotic use, I am now lucky to be given hydrocodone to take. I just don't think it's right to automatically be denied narcotics simply because I abused them in the past. I no longer do that and would appreciate the doctors give me a break. Regardless, I still have the condition which causes my pain, and it needs to be controlled! Dave ________________________________ From: Dianne <dianne12315@...> spinal problems Sent: Saturday, June 20, 2009 5:36:47 AM Subject: Re: Good morning<Dave> Hi Dave, I'm sorry but I don't have any specific advice that can help you with your SSD claim. However I would call the doctors and tell them that you have applied for SSD so that when they do investigate the doctors will give them your entire record. I only know of one person who was not denied SSD on the first try and that was my uncle. He had hurt his back many years ago in the Army and suffered for many years trying to do auto body work and when he was 41 he could no longer do it. He applied for SSD and the veteran's hospital he was going to was very thorough and his claim was approved right away. I also would like to mention that my uncle took all kinds of pain killers through the years. He started out on Tylenol #3 and ended up on Dilaudid plus Oxycontin. My uncle was a relatively healthy man except for his back problems but after many years of being on pain killers he became a diabetic. I blame the pain killers because diabetes does not run in our family and he was the first to be diagnosed with it. (My sister was also a diabetic from the pain killers according to her doctors.) Sadly my uncle passed away in March of 2006 at the age of 59 from a massive heart attack. I can't prove it but I say the pain killers helped him into an early grave. Personally I think it would be worth it for you to have legal help. A lawyer who specializes in SSD can be of more help to you than you think. A lot of them will offer you a free consultation and they can usually tell you some helpful hints. Good luck and thank you for the prayers. Dianne Hay Dianne, thank you for the words of encouragment! Two other friends of mine also mentioned about everybody being denied on the first try as well. I will have to stay vigilant in my pursuit. Now, I'm trying to figure out my next move and contemplating the retaining of legal assistance. I just don't want to have to pay the 25% if successful. Besides that website you list, do you have any specific advice on what I could do to help my chance. How long should I wait to file an appeal? Also, I noticed that my medical records from other doctors were not obtained by the adjudicator. I know that the both of the doctors are no longer in practice because they were taken down by the DEA. Do you know how I might be able to proceed to obtain these missing records? Thanks much! Please know that I'm so sorry that you and some of your family members have been " cursed " with so many medical problems. I will hold a place for you in my prayers. Dave Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 20, 2009 Report Share Posted June 20, 2009 No Pat, I did not have any of my docs fill out any restriction papers. I didn't know that I needed to do so. I will look for a good lawyer. What is that disability site on here that you mention? Thanks. Dave ________________________________ From: pat040394 <ltpat228@...> spinal problems Sent: Saturday, June 20, 2009 12:04:17 PM Subject: Re: Good morning<Dave> Sure, maybe your yellow pages is chocked full of Lawyers; however; choose an Attorney who specializes in disability. Let me ask you, Dave: Did you have each of your Physicians fill out restriction papers on you and your condition then forward these forms to the SSA? That is just ONE reason to hire a Professional. Oh yeh - and once you sign with up with an Attorney, you have to stop working...because obviously if you are able to work, you are not disabled. Also, there's a wonderful site here on dedicated to disability issues. Some of the posters are retired SSA employees and know the inside scoop. ~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~ > > > > It's just that to me, on paper, I thought my condition was severe > > enough, in and of itself. Oh well, no big deal. I'll just keep trying. > > I have always been a physical person and enjoy actual labor and manual > > activities, but you are correct, I do need to switch things up and use > > my brain. I have not read any red or green book so I'm no expert. > > Although, maybe I should. I'm just thinking about the question of > > having depression and brain " problems " . Maybe I can use my brain to get > > diagnosed with some sort of mental problem. I have studied psychology > > and would know what to overexaggerate. Nah, that's not me. I could not > > and would not ever do such. Anyhow, what is the EMG testing that you > > mention. I have not had it performed, nor have I ever heard of it. > > > > Dave > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 20, 2009 Report Share Posted June 20, 2009 we were told when that ligament causes problems the only way around it is a corpectomy....is this correct tracy? deb rn ---------- Sent from my Verizon Wireless mobile phone - Re: Good morning<Dave> Hi Dave, I'm sorry but I don't have any specific advice that can help you with your SSD claim. However I would call the doctors and tell them that you have applied for SSD so that when they do investigate the doctors will give them your entire record. I only know of one person who was not denied SSD on the first try and that was my uncle. He had hurt his back many years ago in the Army and suffered for many years trying to do auto body work and when he was 41 he could no longer do it. He applied for SSD and the veteran's hospital he was going to was very thorough and his claim was approved right away. I also would like to mention that my uncle took all kinds of pain killers through the years. He started out on Tylenol #3 and ended up on Dilaudid plus Oxycontin. My uncle was a relatively healthy man except for his back problems but after many years of being on pain killers he became a diabetic. I blame the pain killers because diabetes does not run in our family and he was the first to be diagnosed with it. (My sister was also a diabetic from the pain killers according to her doctors.) Sadly my uncle passed away in March of 2006 at the age of 59 from a massive heart attack. I can't prove it but I say the pain killers helped him into an early grave. Personally I think it would be worth it for you to have legal help. A lawyer who specializes in SSD can be of more help to you than you think. A lot of them will offer you a free consultation and they can usually tell you some helpful hints. Good luck and thank you for the prayers. Dianne Hay Dianne, thank you for the words of encouragment! Two other friends of mine also mentioned about everybody being denied on the first try as well. I will have to stay vigilant in my pursuit. Now, I'm trying to figure out my next move and contemplating the retaining of legal assistance. I just don't want to have to pay the 25% if successful. Besides that website you list, do you have any specific advice on what I could do to help my chance. How long should I wait to file an appeal? Also, I noticed that my medical records from other doctors were not obtained by the adjudicator. I know that the both of the doctors are no longer in practice because they were taken down by the DEA. Do you know how I might be able to proceed to obtain these missing records? Thanks much! Please know that I'm so sorry that you and some of your family members have been " cursed " with so many medical problems. I will hold a place for you in my prayers. Dave Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 20, 2009 Report Share Posted June 20, 2009 dave where did the info that you can become diabetic due to narcotic use? deb rn ---------- Sent from my Verizon Wireless mobile phone - Re: Good morning<Dave> Hi Dave, I'm sorry but I don't have any specific advice that can help you with your SSD claim. However I would call the doctors and tell them that you have applied for SSD so that when they do investigate the doctors will give them your entire record. I only know of one person who was not denied SSD on the first try and that was my uncle. He had hurt his back many years ago in the Army and suffered for many years trying to do auto body work and when he was 41 he could no longer do it. He applied for SSD and the veteran's hospital he was going to was very thorough and his claim was approved right away. I also would like to mention that my uncle took all kinds of pain killers through the years. He started out on Tylenol #3 and ended up on Dilaudid plus Oxycontin. My uncle was a relatively healthy man except for his back problems but after many years of being on pain killers he became a diabetic. I blame the pain killers because diabetes does not run in our family and he was the first to be diagnosed with it. (My sister was also a diabetic from the pain killers according to her doctors.) Sadly my uncle passed away in March of 2006 at the age of 59 from a massive heart attack. I can't prove it but I say the pain killers helped him into an early grave. Personally I think it would be worth it for you to have legal help. A lawyer who specializes in SSD can be of more help to you than you think. A lot of them will offer you a free consultation and they can usually tell you some helpful hints. Good luck and thank you for the prayers. Dianne Hay Dianne, thank you for the words of encouragment! Two other friends of mine also mentioned about everybody being denied on the first try as well. I will have to stay vigilant in my pursuit. Now, I'm trying to figure out my next move and contemplating the retaining of legal assistance. I just don't want to have to pay the 25% if successful. Besides that website you list, do you have any specific advice on what I could do to help my chance. How long should I wait to file an appeal? Also, I noticed that my medical records from other doctors were not obtained by the adjudicator. I know that the both of the doctors are no longer in practice because they were taken down by the DEA. Do you know how I might be able to proceed to obtain these missing records? Thanks much! Please know that I'm so sorry that you and some of your family members have been " cursed " with so many medical problems. I will hold a place for you in my prayers. Dave Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 20, 2009 Report Share Posted June 20, 2009 i have to say that narcotic use DOES NOT cause diabetes..... deb rn ---------- Sent from my Verizon Wireless mobile phone - Re: Good morning<Dave> Hi Dave, I'm sorry but I don't have any specific advice that can help you with your SSD claim. However I would call the doctors and tell them that you have applied for SSD so that when they do investigate the doctors will give them your entire record. I only know of one person who was not denied SSD on the first try and that was my uncle. He had hurt his back many years ago in the Army and suffered for many years trying to do auto body work and when he was 41 he could no longer do it. He applied for SSD and the veteran's hospital he was going to was very thorough and his claim was approved right away. I also would like to mention that my uncle took all kinds of pain killers through the years. He started out on Tylenol #3 and ended up on Dilaudid plus Oxycontin. My uncle was a relatively healthy man except for his back problems but after many years of being on pain killers he became a diabetic. I blame the pain killers because diabetes does not run in our family and he was the first to be diagnosed with it. (My sister was also a diabetic from the pain killers according to her doctors.) Sadly my uncle passed away in March of 2006 at the age of 59 from a massive heart attack. I can't prove it but I say the pain killers helped him into an early grave. Personally I think it would be worth it for you to have legal help. A lawyer who specializes in SSD can be of more help to you than you think. A lot of them will offer you a free consultation and they can usually tell you some helpful hints. Good luck and thank you for the prayers. Dianne Hay Dianne, thank you for the words of encouragment! Two other friends of mine also mentioned about everybody being denied on the first try as well. I will have to stay vigilant in my pursuit. Now, I'm trying to figure out my next move and contemplating the retaining of legal assistance. I just don't want to have to pay the 25% if successful. Besides that website you list, do you have any specific advice on what I could do to help my chance. How long should I wait to file an appeal? Also, I noticed that my medical records from other doctors were not obtained by the adjudicator. I know that the both of the doctors are no longer in practice because they were taken down by the DEA. Do you know how I might be able to proceed to obtain these missing records? Thanks much! Please know that I'm so sorry that you and some of your family members have been " cursed " with so many medical problems. I will hold a place for you in my prayers. Dave Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 20, 2009 Report Share Posted June 20, 2009 Corpectomy? I have never heard my doctors mention this word! Anyhow, Dianne mentioned that narcotics probably caused the diabetes in a couple of her relatives--due to their otherwise healthy conditions and docs. ________________________________ From: Debra f <i_ownaberner@...> spinal problems ; D Chavez <chavezd@...> Sent: Saturday, June 20, 2009 2:01:24 PM Subject: Re: Good morning<Dave> we were told when that ligament causes problems the only way around it is a corpectomy.. ..is this correct tracy? deb rn ---------- Sent from my Verizon Wireless mobile phone - Re: Good morning<Dave> Hi Dave, I'm sorry but I don't have any specific advice that can help you with your SSD claim. However I would call the doctors and tell them that you have applied for SSD so that when they do investigate the doctors will give them your entire record. I only know of one person who was not denied SSD on the first try and that was my uncle. He had hurt his back many years ago in the Army and suffered for many years trying to do auto body work and when he was 41 he could no longer do it. He applied for SSD and the veteran's hospital he was going to was very thorough and his claim was approved right away. I also would like to mention that my uncle took all kinds of pain killers through the years. He started out on Tylenol #3 and ended up on Dilaudid plus Oxycontin. My uncle was a relatively healthy man except for his back problems but after many years of being on pain killers he became a diabetic. I blame the pain killers because diabetes does not run in our family and he was the first to be diagnosed with it. (My sister was also a diabetic from the pain killers according to her doctors.) Sadly my uncle passed away in March of 2006 at the age of 59 from a massive heart attack. I can't prove it but I say the pain killers helped him into an early grave. Personally I think it would be worth it for you to have legal help. A lawyer who specializes in SSD can be of more help to you than you think. A lot of them will offer you a free consultation and they can usually tell you some helpful hints. Good luck and thank you for the prayers. Dianne Hay Dianne, thank you for the words of encouragment! Two other friends of mine also mentioned about everybody being denied on the first try as well. I will have to stay vigilant in my pursuit. Now, I'm trying to figure out my next move and contemplating the retaining of legal assistance. I just don't want to have to pay the 25% if successful. Besides that website you list, do you have any specific advice on what I could do to help my chance. How long should I wait to file an appeal? Also, I noticed that my medical records from other doctors were not obtained by the adjudicator. I know that the both of the doctors are no longer in practice because they were taken down by the DEA. Do you know how I might be able to proceed to obtain these missing records? Thanks much! Please know that I'm so sorry that you and some of your family members have been " cursed " with so many medical problems. I will hold a place for you in my prayers. Dave Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 20, 2009 Report Share Posted June 20, 2009 Dianne, I'm so sorry if I came across in any of my messages as saying that you mentioned something. I know what you mean and only tried to relay it. In my response, it may have sounded as though I was " blaming " you, but by no means is that the case. I know exactly what you were meaning by telling of your experiences, and my have lacked important information in saying where I " heard " of this. Again, so sorry to all for any problems or confusion that this may have caused. Let's be happy, the Cubs win...after 13 long innings!!! Dave ________________________________ From: Dianne <dianne12315@...> spinal problems Sent: Saturday, June 20, 2009 3:47:24 PM Subject: Re: Good morning<Dave> Before this leads someplace I don't want it to go I never said that narcotics cause diabetes I said I blamed the pain killers for my uncle's death. It does seem awful funny that a relatively healthy man with no history fo diabetes develops it after many years of taking pain killers. My sister was never a diabetic either but in the hospital they were testing her blood sugar everyday and giving her insulin if it went above 110. My sister never had diabetes either. It does not run in our family at all. They are the only two who ever took insulin. Maybe it's just a coincidence that they both developed diabetes after taking pain killers. My sister's doctor told me it was possible and I believed him. Hindsight is 20-20. I never should have believed anything he told me. I can't prove it because there was no autopsy done on my uncle but I would bet all those years of being on pain killers took a toll on his body and it caught up with him. He was 59 and was diagnosed with diabetes at 58. He was pretty healthy except for being in constant pain. There are many side effects to pain killers so maybe someone should (if it hasn't been done already) study the long term effects on a person after being on them for many years. I'm not saying pain killers are not good because they are but they should be used with extreme caution. Dianne > > i have to say that narcotic use DOES NOT cause diabetes.... . > deb rn > > ---------- > Sent from my Verizon Wireless mobile phone > > - Re: Good morning<Dave> > > Hello Dianne, > > Thank you for so much! It is so sad and unfortunate to hear about your loss. I'm sorry. > > Just last month I had all the tests for the back. In one CT report, it states, " that at L5-S1 there is an asymmetrical disc bulge. This finding in combination with moderate ligamentous thickening causes a very mild central stenosis and moderate-to- severe bilateral neural foraminal stenosis. "  This is my primary problem area issue. My neurosurgeon says that my nevers have such a tiny pathway that they are constantly being pinched. > > Only just recently seeing my first and only neuro, this could be part of the reason. It's just that he told me that my condition is as the the report lists, " severe " . Because of this, I have been hesitant to obtain legal assistance. However, I'm hearing lots of support for the contrary, and will look into retaining a lawyer. I will also try obtaining my " lost " medical records. I'm sure that they have got to help. Don't you? > > I am a young 30 and have held many, basic jobs. For the most part of my working years, I have been enrolled in college. My past jobs include fast food & sit down restaurant cook, substitute teacher grades k-12, wildlife animal technician, security guard, busser/dishwasher, janitor, laundry attendant, college tutor, retail sales clerk, steel laborer, and a student worker which consisted of records keeping, mail handling, copying, stocking, inventory, and medical equipment sterilization. > > I had no clue about possibly becoming diabetic due to narcotics! It is now making me wonder, even though I had blood test a few months ago. My dad has been taking meds for it at least a year now. So maybe I might be next. I guess I really need to rethink about continuing the pain meds and have surgery. Just like your uncle, I too am healthy and active. I started on Darvocet and have taken many others up to Oxycontin. As I have had issues with narcotic use, I am now lucky to be given hydrocodone to take. I just don't think it's right to automatically be denied narcotics simply because I abused them in the past. I no longer do that and would appreciate the doctors give me a break. Regardless, I still have the condition which causes my pain, and it needs to be controlled! > > Dave > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 21, 2009 Report Share Posted June 21, 2009 Dave, I've been reading some of you postings about filing SSD, and just wanted to give my experiences with filing. I made the attempt 3 times before I was approved. Never once was able to get an attorney to take my case because they all said I had no chances of winning. Nevertheless I continued on my own and won my case on my own. It's not impossible but very very difficult, now don't go off on your own and try just because I said this, it is just my experiences with SSD. It took me a very long time and I was so ready to give up many times. I just had no choice but to do it myself, and only by the grace of God did I get it, no other explanation but a miracle. I had many family members praying for me also. My only point in telling you this is not give up, your avenues will open up and show themselves when the time comes. Also you said something about not being able to obtain some of your records...some may disagree with me on this, but a signed release by you to the SSA will maybe get you those unobtainable records, this I had to reluctantly do myself, due to hostile ex-doctors I fired. I hope this all helps, if I had known upfront that I had to go this way...it would not have taken me almost 5 yrs to get awarded. Bama, george " He is your friend, your partner, your defender, your dog. You are his life, his love, his leader. He will be yours, faithful and true, to the last beat of his heart. You owe it to him to be worthy of such devotion. " -unknown- ________________________________ From: D Chavez <chavezd@...> spinal problems@... Sent: Saturday, June 20, 2009 11:42:21 AM Subject: Re: Good morning<Dave> Shoot, 30% seems like a good # to me! Too bad I wasn't one of them. I really thought I would be approved because my pain has been occurring for at least 10 years, when I begain going to doctors. I have been visiting with a good amount of doctors since then. I have many records for them to view. Only recently, because primary doc wants to end my long-term narcotic use, have I had more ESI's which didn't work, and am now looking at surgery. When I have been using narcotics, I have been able to handle and cope with the pain, not needing surgery or any other form of treatment. The job was being handled just fine. When I was in college 2 years ago, one of the doctor university doctors that I had seen was so nice and told me to look into Social Security. When I did, as always, it was a waste of time. It's just like all the other times when my loan companies or other places ask if I'm disabled. Because I can work, I always tell them no. As a result, they tell me that nothing can be done. Now, I have finally learned some things about the systems. I don't lie, but may tell them more about the times when I am at my worse than when I am at my best. Exactly what more does your attorney do that a lone applicant cannot or doesn't do for themself? Also, how did you go about securing your attorney? Should I just open the phone book and look for one? Please help! Are you forced to pay them 25% if you win? Can that percent be lowered or are there legal centers that could do the work for free? DAve ____________ _________ _________ __ From: pat040394 <ltpat228comcast (DOT) net> spinedisorderssuppo rtgroup@gro ups.com Sent: Friday, June 19, 2009 5:58:01 PM Subject: Re: Good morning<Dave> Approximately 30% off all applicants are approved the first time. Why such a tiny number? Because Doctor's notes are not that thorough. GET AN ATTORNEY!!! I have one and seems it's working out fabulously my 2nd time around. ~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~ > > It's just that to me, on paper, I thought my condition was severe > enough, in and of itself. Oh well, no big deal. I'll just keep trying. > I have always been a physical person and enjoy actual labor and manual > activities, but you are correct, I do need to switch things up and use > my brain. I have not read any red or green book so I'm no expert. > Although, maybe I should. I'm just thinking about the question of > having depression and brain " problems " . Maybe I can use my brain to get > diagnosed with some sort of mental problem. I have studied psychology > and would know what to overexaggerate. Nah, that's not me. I could not > and would not ever do such. Anyhow, what is the EMG testing that you > mention. I have not had it performed, nor have I ever heard of it. > > Dave > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 21, 2009 Report Share Posted June 21, 2009 Just an FYI...you CANNOT become diabetic from taking narcotics. EVER.=== ________________________________ From: D Chavez <chavezd@...> spinal problems Sent: Saturday, June 20, 2009 1:47:23 PM Subject: Re: Good morning<Dave> Hello Dianne, Thank you for so much! It is so sad and unfortunate to hear about your loss. I'm sorry. Just last month I had all the tests for the back. In one CT report, it states, " that at L5-S1 there is an asymmetrical disc bulge. This finding in combination with moderate ligamentous thickening causes a very mild central stenosis and moderate-to- severe bilateral neural foraminal stenosis. " This is my primary problem area issue. My neurosurgeon says that my nevers have such a tiny pathway that they are constantly being pinched. Only just recently seeing my first and only neuro, this could be part of the reason. It's just that he told me that my condition is as the the report lists, " severe " . Because of this, I have been hesitant to obtain legal assistance. However, I'm hearing lots of support for the contrary, and will look into retaining a lawyer. I will also try obtaining my " lost " medical records. I'm sure that they have got to help. Don't you? I am a young 30 and have held many, basic jobs. For the most part of my working years, I have been enrolled in college. My past jobs include fast food & sit down restaurant cook, substitute teacher grades k-12, wildlife animal technician, security guard, busser/dishwasher, janitor, laundry attendant, college tutor, retail sales clerk, steel laborer, and a student worker which consisted of records keeping, mail handling, copying, stocking, inventory, and medical equipment sterilization. I had no clue about possibly becoming diabetic due to narcotics! It is now making me wonder, even though I had blood test a few months ago. My dad has been taking meds for it at least a year now. So maybe I might be next. I guess I really need to rethink about continuing the pain meds and have surgery. Just like your uncle, I too am healthy and active. I started on Darvocet and have taken many others up to Oxycontin. As I have had issues with narcotic use, I am now lucky to be given hydrocodone to take. I just don't think it's right to automatically be denied narcotics simply because I abused them in the past. I no longer do that and would appreciate the doctors give me a break. Regardless, I still have the condition which causes my pain, and it needs to be controlled! Dave ____________ _________ _________ __ From: Dianne <dianne12315> spinedisorderssuppo rtgroup@gro ups.com Sent: Saturday, June 20, 2009 5:36:47 AM Subject: Re: Good morning<Dave> Hi Dave, I'm sorry but I don't have any specific advice that can help you with your SSD claim. However I would call the doctors and tell them that you have applied for SSD so that when they do investigate the doctors will give them your entire record. I only know of one person who was not denied SSD on the first try and that was my uncle. He had hurt his back many years ago in the Army and suffered for many years trying to do auto body work and when he was 41 he could no longer do it. He applied for SSD and the veteran's hospital he was going to was very thorough and his claim was approved right away. I also would like to mention that my uncle took all kinds of pain killers through the years. He started out on Tylenol #3 and ended up on Dilaudid plus Oxycontin. My uncle was a relatively healthy man except for his back problems but after many years of being on pain killers he became a diabetic. I blame the pain killers because diabetes does not run in our family and he was the first to be diagnosed with it. (My sister was also a diabetic from the pain killers according to her doctors.) Sadly my uncle passed away in March of 2006 at the age of 59 from a massive heart attack. I can't prove it but I say the pain killers helped him into an early grave. Personally I think it would be worth it for you to have legal help. A lawyer who specializes in SSD can be of more help to you than you think. A lot of them will offer you a free consultation and they can usually tell you some helpful hints. Good luck and thank you for the prayers. Dianne Hay Dianne, thank you for the words of encouragment! Two other friends of mine also mentioned about everybody being denied on the first try as well. I will have to stay vigilant in my pursuit. Now, I'm trying to figure out my next move and contemplating the retaining of legal assistance. I just don't want to have to pay the 25% if successful. Besides that website you list, do you have any specific advice on what I could do to help my chance. How long should I wait to file an appeal? Also, I noticed that my medical records from other doctors were not obtained by the adjudicator. I know that the both of the doctors are no longer in practice because they were taken down by the DEA. Do you know how I might be able to proceed to obtain these missing records? Thanks much! Please know that I'm so sorry that you and some of your family members have been " cursed " with so many medical problems. I will hold a place for you in my prayers. Dave Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 21, 2009 Report Share Posted June 21, 2009 I found this Group about SSD and I think you would get some benefit from it. ssadisability/ Dawn E. I would rather be hated for who I am than to be like for who I am not ~Author Unknown From: Lambert <glambert28@...> Subject: Re: Good morning<Dave> spinal problems Date: Saturday, June 20, 2009, 9:59 PM Dave, I've been reading some of you postings about filing SSD, and just wanted to give my experiences with filing. I made the attempt 3 times before I was approved. Never once was able to get an attorney to take my case because they all said I had no chances of winning. Nevertheless I continued on my own and won my case on my own. It's not impossible but very very difficult, now don't go off on your own and try just because I said this, it is just my experiences with SSD. It took me a very long time and I was so ready to give up many times. I just had no choice but to do it myself, and only by the grace of God did I get it, no other explanation but a miracle. I had many family members praying for me also. My only point in telling you this is not give up, your avenues will open up and show themselves when the time comes. Also you said something about not being able to obtain some of your records. ..some may disagree with me on this, but a signed release by you to the SSA will maybe get you those unobtainable records, this I had to reluctantly do myself, due to hostile ex-doctors I fired. I hope this all helps, if I had known upfront that I had to go this way....it would not have taken me almost 5 yrs to get awarded. Bama, george " He is your friend, your partner, your defender, your dog. You are his life, his love, his leader. He will be yours, faithful and true, to the last beat of his heart. You owe it to him to be worthy of such devotion. " -unknown- ____________ _________ _________ __ From: D Chavez <chavezdymail (DOT) com> spinedisorderssuppo rtgroup@gro ups..com Sent: Saturday, June 20, 2009 11:42:21 AM Subject: Re: Good morning<Dave> Shoot, 30% seems like a good # to me! Too bad I wasn't one of them. I really thought I would be approved because my pain has been occurring for at least 10 years, when I begain going to doctors. I have been visiting with a good amount of doctors since then. I have many records for them to view. Only recently, because primary doc wants to end my long-term narcotic use, have I had more ESI's which didn't work, and am now looking at surgery. When I have been using narcotics, I have been able to handle and cope with the pain, not needing surgery or any other form of treatment. The job was being handled just fine. When I was in college 2 years ago, one of the doctor university doctors that I had seen was so nice and told me to look into Social Security. When I did, as always, it was a waste of time. It's just like all the other times when my loan companies or other places ask if I'm disabled. Because I can work, I always tell them no. As a result, they tell me that nothing can be done. Now, I have finally learned some things about the systems. I don't lie, but may tell them more about the times when I am at my worse than when I am at my best. Exactly what more does your attorney do that a lone applicant cannot or doesn't do for themself? Also, how did you go about securing your attorney? Should I just open the phone book and look for one? Please help! Are you forced to pay them 25% if you win? Can that percent be lowered or are there legal centers that could do the work for free? DAve ____________ _________ _________ __ From: pat040394 <ltpat228comcast (DOT) net> spinedisorderssuppo rtgroup@gro ups.com Sent: Friday, June 19, 2009 5:58:01 PM Subject: Re: Good morning<Dave> Approximately 30% off all applicants are approved the first time. Why such a tiny number? Because Doctor's notes are not that thorough. GET AN ATTORNEY!!! I have one and seems it's working out fabulously my 2nd time around. ~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~ > > It's just that to me, on paper, I thought my condition was severe > enough, in and of itself. Oh well, no big deal. I'll just keep trying. > I have always been a physical person and enjoy actual labor and manual > activities, but you are correct, I do need to switch things up and use > my brain. I have not read any red or green book so I'm no expert. > Although, maybe I should. I'm just thinking about the question of > having depression and brain " problems " . Maybe I can use my brain to get > diagnosed with some sort of mental problem. I have studied psychology > and would know what to overexaggerate. Nah, that's not me. I could not > and would not ever do such. Anyhow, what is the EMG testing that you > mention. I have not had it performed, nor have I ever heard of it. > > Dave > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 21, 2009 Report Share Posted June 21, 2009 All Deb said was {I have to say, narcotics don't cause diabetes}. that should not have been read into for anthing other than it is. A simple stated fact. Honestly I'm a little sensitive after the tiff on here, but I'm feeling that ANYTHING we say can be taken personally. There's nothing wrong with correcting a wrong or misunderstood fact or thought process, and it shouldn't be taken personally. No one should have to feel the need for apologing for giving a fact or opionion. ________________________________ From: D Chavez <chavezd@...> spinal problems Sent: Saturday, June 20, 2009 5:41:23 PM Subject: Re: Good morning<Dave> Dianne, I'm so sorry if I came across in any of my messages as saying that you mentioned something. I know what you mean and only tried to relay it. In my response, it may have sounded as though I was " blaming " you, but by no means is that the case. I know exactly what you were meaning by telling of your experiences, and my have lacked important information in saying where I " heard " of this. Again, so sorry to all for any problems or confusion that this may have caused. Let's be happy, the Cubs win...after 13 long innings!!! Dave ____________ _________ _________ __ From: Dianne <dianne12315> spinedisorderssuppo rtgroup@gro ups.com Sent: Saturday, June 20, 2009 3:47:24 PM Subject: Re: Good morning<Dave> Before this leads someplace I don't want it to go I never said that narcotics cause diabetes I said I blamed the pain killers for my uncle's death. It does seem awful funny that a relatively healthy man with no history fo diabetes develops it after many years of taking pain killers. My sister was never a diabetic either but in the hospital they were testing her blood sugar everyday and giving her insulin if it went above 110. My sister never had diabetes either. It does not run in our family at all. They are the only two who ever took insulin. Maybe it's just a coincidence that they both developed diabetes after taking pain killers. My sister's doctor told me it was possible and I believed him. Hindsight is 20-20. I never should have believed anything he told me. I can't prove it because there was no autopsy done on my uncle but I would bet all those years of being on pain killers took a toll on his body and it caught up with him. He was 59 and was diagnosed with diabetes at 58. He was pretty healthy except for being in constant pain. There are many side effects to pain killers so maybe someone should (if it hasn't been done already) study the long term effects on a person after being on them for many years. I'm not saying pain killers are not good because they are but they should be used with extreme caution. Dianne > > i have to say that narcotic use DOES NOT cause diabetes.... . > deb rn > > ---------- > Sent from my Verizon Wireless mobile phone > > - Re: Good morning<Dave> > > Hello Dianne, > > Thank you for so much! It is so sad and unfortunate to hear about your loss. I'm sorry. > > Just last month I had all the tests for the back. In one CT report, it states, " that at L5-S1 there is an asymmetrical disc bulge. This finding in combination with moderate ligamentous thickening causes a very mild central stenosis and moderate-to- severe bilateral neural foraminal stenosis. "  This is my primary problem area issue. My neurosurgeon says that my nevers have such a tiny pathway that they are constantly being pinched. > > Only just recently seeing my first and only neuro, this could be part of the reason. It's just that he told me that my condition is as the the report lists, " severe " . Because of this, I have been hesitant to obtain legal assistance. However, I'm hearing lots of support for the contrary, and will look into retaining a lawyer. I will also try obtaining my " lost " medical records. I'm sure that they have got to help. Don't you? > > I am a young 30 and have held many, basic jobs. For the most part of my working years, I have been enrolled in college. My past jobs include fast food & sit down restaurant cook, substitute teacher grades k-12, wildlife animal technician, security guard, busser/dishwasher, janitor, laundry attendant, college tutor, retail sales clerk, steel laborer, and a student worker which consisted of records keeping, mail handling, copying, stocking, inventory, and medical equipment sterilization. > > I had no clue about possibly becoming diabetic due to narcotics! It is now making me wonder, even though I had blood test a few months ago. My dad has been taking meds for it at least a year now. So maybe I might be next. I guess I really need to rethink about continuing the pain meds and have surgery. Just like your uncle, I too am healthy and active. I started on Darvocet and have taken many others up to Oxycontin. As I have had issues with narcotic use, I am now lucky to be given hydrocodone to take. I just don't think it's right to automatically be denied narcotics simply because I abused them in the past. I no longer do that and would appreciate the doctors give me a break. Regardless, I still have the condition which causes my pain, and it needs to be controlled! > > Dave > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 21, 2009 Report Share Posted June 21, 2009 Deb, I believe hypertrophied ligamentum flavum can be treated with laminotomy. Perhaps when the ligament becomes ossified over time it may be necessary to perform copectomy. --- ________________________________ From: Debra f <i_ownaberner@...> spinal problems ; D Chavez <chavezd@...> Sent: Saturday, June 20, 2009 3:01:24 PM Subject: Re: Good morning<Dave> we were told when that ligament causes problems the only way around it is a corpectomy.. ..is this correct tracy? deb rn ---------- Sent from my Verizon Wireless mobile phone - Re: Good morning<Dave> Hi Dave, I'm sorry but I don't have any specific advice that can help you with your SSD claim. However I would call the doctors and tell them that you have applied for SSD so that when they do investigate the doctors will give them your entire record. I only know of one person who was not denied SSD on the first try and that was my uncle. He had hurt his back many years ago in the Army and suffered for many years trying to do auto body work and when he was 41 he could no longer do it. He applied for SSD and the veteran's hospital he was going to was very thorough and his claim was approved right away. I also would like to mention that my uncle took all kinds of pain killers through the years. He started out on Tylenol #3 and ended up on Dilaudid plus Oxycontin. My uncle was a relatively healthy man except for his back problems but after many years of being on pain killers he became a diabetic. I blame the pain killers because diabetes does not run in our family and he was the first to be diagnosed with it. (My sister was also a diabetic from the pain killers according to her doctors.) Sadly my uncle passed away in March of 2006 at the age of 59 from a massive heart attack. I can't prove it but I say the pain killers helped him into an early grave. Personally I think it would be worth it for you to have legal help. A lawyer who specializes in SSD can be of more help to you than you think. A lot of them will offer you a free consultation and they can usually tell you some helpful hints. Good luck and thank you for the prayers. Dianne Hay Dianne, thank you for the words of encouragment! Two other friends of mine also mentioned about everybody being denied on the first try as well. I will have to stay vigilant in my pursuit. Now, I'm trying to figure out my next move and contemplating the retaining of legal assistance. I just don't want to have to pay the 25% if successful. Besides that website you list, do you have any specific advice on what I could do to help my chance. How long should I wait to file an appeal? Also, I noticed that my medical records from other doctors were not obtained by the adjudicator. I know that the both of the doctors are no longer in practice because they were taken down by the DEA. Do you know how I might be able to proceed to obtain these missing records? Thanks much! Please know that I'm so sorry that you and some of your family members have been " cursed " with so many medical problems. I will hold a place for you in my prayers. Dave Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 21, 2009 Report Share Posted June 21, 2009 , His MRI stated...there is thickening of the posterior longitudanal ligament... are we talking about the same ligament? c2-c3 the disc is normal....there is mild uncovertebral and facet osteoarthritis. A centrak disc osteophyte complex effaces the anterior thecal sac and abuts the cervical cord resulting in mild canal stenosis. There is mild left foraminal stenosis. c3-c4 there is mild uncovertebral and facet osteoarthritis. A central disc osteophyte complex effaces the anterior thecal sac and abuts the cervical cord resulting in mild canal stenosis. There is mild left foraminal stenosis. c4-c5 there is a moderate disc bulge and moderate facet osteoarthritis resulting in moderate to severe bilateral foraminal stenosis and moderate canal stenosis with flattening of the cervical cord. c5-c6 there is a moderate disc bulge resulting in severe canal stenosis and flattening of the cervical cord. There is moderate facet osteoarthritis. There is moderate to severe bilateral foraminal stenosis. c6-c7 There is a mild disc bulge. The doc stated in his note: given the extent of his disease behind the vertebral bodies of c4 and c5 I would recommend a c4-c5 corpectomy with an associated anterior spinal reconstruction and fusion. Does this make sense...the doc said that if it werent for this ligament just a fusion could be done,...but when the ligaments involved it wouldnt work....can you explain this....I know that he was having falls and they originally thought that he had MS...and they explained that he had almost no spinal fluid.....how does this affect that..... Thanks Debra in St. Louis ________________________________ From: Babbitt <tpowell1977@...> spinal problems Sent: Sunday, June 21, 2009 6:39:45 AM Subject: Re: Good morning<Dave> Deb, I believe hypertrophied ligamentum flavum can be treated with laminotomy. Perhaps when the ligament becomes ossified over time it may be necessary to perform copectomy. -- - ____________ _________ _________ __ From: Debra f <i_ownaberner> spinedisorderssuppo rtgroup@gro ups.com; D Chavez <chavezdymail (DOT) com> Sent: Saturday, June 20, 2009 3:01:24 PM Subject: Re: Good morning<Dave> we were told when that ligament causes problems the only way around it is a corpectomy.. ..is this correct tracy? deb rn ---------- Sent from my Verizon Wireless mobile phone - Re: Good morning<Dave> Hi Dave, I'm sorry but I don't have any specific advice that can help you with your SSD claim. However I would call the doctors and tell them that you have applied for SSD so that when they do investigate the doctors will give them your entire record. I only know of one person who was not denied SSD on the first try and that was my uncle. He had hurt his back many years ago in the Army and suffered for many years trying to do auto body work and when he was 41 he could no longer do it. He applied for SSD and the veteran's hospital he was going to was very thorough and his claim was approved right away. I also would like to mention that my uncle took all kinds of pain killers through the years. He started out on Tylenol #3 and ended up on Dilaudid plus Oxycontin. My uncle was a relatively healthy man except for his back problems but after many years of being on pain killers he became a diabetic. I blame the pain killers because diabetes does not run in our family and he was the first to be diagnosed with it. (My sister was also a diabetic from the pain killers according to her doctors.) Sadly my uncle passed away in March of 2006 at the age of 59 from a massive heart attack. I can't prove it but I say the pain killers helped him into an early grave. Personally I think it would be worth it for you to have legal help. A lawyer who specializes in SSD can be of more help to you than you think. A lot of them will offer you a free consultation and they can usually tell you some helpful hints. Good luck and thank you for the prayers. Dianne Hay Dianne, thank you for the words of encouragment! Two other friends of mine also mentioned about everybody being denied on the first try as well. I will have to stay vigilant in my pursuit. Now, I'm trying to figure out my next move and contemplating the retaining of legal assistance. I just don't want to have to pay the 25% if successful. Besides that website you list, do you have any specific advice on what I could do to help my chance. How long should I wait to file an appeal? Also, I noticed that my medical records from other doctors were not obtained by the adjudicator. I know that the both of the doctors are no longer in practice because they were taken down by the DEA. Do you know how I might be able to proceed to obtain these missing records? Thanks much! Please know that I'm so sorry that you and some of your family members have been " cursed " with so many medical problems. I will hold a place for you in my prayers. Dave Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 21, 2009 Report Share Posted June 21, 2009 Jeez, how old is he? he has an incredibly old spianl column...and that of someone who has performed a lifetime of heavy physical labor like a farmer or carpenter. I feel so bad for him reading this report. Well, it should not affect the amount of spinal fluid, but the central canal narrowing so high up in the spinal column would most certainly cause balance and gait problems as well as falls, lack of coordination, as well as many other difficulties. It sounds like he needs some major surgery, unfortunately. The osteophyte complexes on the top two disks are causing some narrowing and this which could be relieved by anterior fusion only, because of the location, you could not simply remove the osteophytes as they are inaccessible without removing the disk anteriorly. That being said, these levels seem to be contributing the least to his problems. I'm not sure where the ligament comes into play here. I see nothing in the report that mentions the ligament at all. Corpectomy in his case would be recommended due to #1 the fact that he has multiple levels of disease and #2 because his osteophytes arise from the vertebral body, as well as the disk and #3 because of the sheer amount of osteophyte and resulting stenosis, not only in the central canal, also bilateral foraminal AND also the facet joints are in bad shape . So a fusion would only remove the pressure the osteophytes on the disk are creating, but he'd still have them on the Vertebral Body, he'd still have badly osteophytic facet joints which would cause incredible pain that injection would not soothe. The foraminal stenisis would be helped, but not 100% If the report said 'ossification of posterior longitudinal ligament' I would understand more where that comes into play, but at each level described on MRI, I don't see a word about the ligament. The only possibility I can think of is if the ligament WAS showing early ossification that the radiologist did not pick up on, but the surgeon did. And this is different than ligamentum flavum, I was thinking of something else. Bottom line, he needs two level corpectomy, discectomy with a multi-level plate and screws. This is not an easy surgery to undergo, but will be the only thing that can be offered to give him relief. He will continue to worsen if nothing is done. Also, considering the extent of the disease and the involved nature of the surgery as well as high risk area, I would NOT allow anyone but the best to perform this surgery...even if it meant I had to fly half-way across the country...or the world for that matter. Again...how old is he? ---tracy ________________________________ From: Debra <i_ownaberner@...> spinal problems Sent: Sunday, June 21, 2009 3:01:16 PM Subject: Re: Good morning<Dave> , His MRI stated...there is thickening of the posterior longitudanal ligament... are we talking about the same ligament? c2-c3 the disc is normal....there is mild uncovertebral and facet osteoarthritis. A centrak disc osteophyte complex effaces the anterior thecal sac and abuts the cervical cord resulting in mild canal stenosis. There is mild left foraminal stenosis. c3-c4 there is mild uncovertebral and facet osteoarthritis . A central disc osteophyte complex effaces the anterior thecal sac and abuts the cervical cord resulting in mild canal stenosis. There is mild left foraminal stenosis. c4-c5 there is a moderate disc bulge and moderate facet osteoarthritis resulting in moderate to severe bilateral foraminal stenosis and moderate canal stenosis with flattening of the cervical cord. c5-c6 there is a moderate disc bulge resulting in severe canal stenosis and flattening of the cervical cord. There is moderate facet osteoarthritis. There is moderate to severe bilateral foraminal stenosis. c6-c7 There is a mild disc bulge. The doc stated in his note: given the extent of his disease behind the vertebral bodies of c4 and c5 I would recommend a c4-c5 corpectomy with an associated anterior spinal reconstruction and fusion. Does this make sense...the doc said that if it werent for this ligament just a fusion could be done,...but when the ligaments involved it wouldnt work....can you explain this....I know that he was having falls and they originally thought that he had MS...and they explained that he had almost no spinal fluid.....how does this affect that..... Thanks Debra in St. Louis ____________ _________ _________ __ From: Babbitt <tpowell1977> spinedisorderssuppo rtgroup@gro ups.com Sent: Sunday, June 21, 2009 6:39:45 AM Subject: Re: Good morning<Dave> Deb, I believe hypertrophied ligamentum flavum can be treated with laminotomy. Perhaps when the ligament becomes ossified over time it may be necessary to perform copectomy. -- - ____________ _________ _________ __ From: Debra f <i_ownaberner> spinedisorderssuppo rtgroup@gro ups.com; D Chavez <chavezdymail (DOT) com> Sent: Saturday, June 20, 2009 3:01:24 PM Subject: Re: Good morning<Dave> we were told when that ligament causes problems the only way around it is a corpectomy.. ..is this correct tracy? deb rn ---------- Sent from my Verizon Wireless mobile phone - Re: Good morning<Dave> Hi Dave, I'm sorry but I don't have any specific advice that can help you with your SSD claim. However I would call the doctors and tell them that you have applied for SSD so that when they do investigate the doctors will give them your entire record. I only know of one person who was not denied SSD on the first try and that was my uncle. He had hurt his back many years ago in the Army and suffered for many years trying to do auto body work and when he was 41 he could no longer do it. He applied for SSD and the veteran's hospital he was going to was very thorough and his claim was approved right away. I also would like to mention that my uncle took all kinds of pain killers through the years. He started out on Tylenol #3 and ended up on Dilaudid plus Oxycontin. My uncle was a relatively healthy man except for his back problems but after many years of being on pain killers he became a diabetic. I blame the pain killers because diabetes does not run in our family and he was the first to be diagnosed with it. (My sister was also a diabetic from the pain killers according to her doctors.) Sadly my uncle passed away in March of 2006 at the age of 59 from a massive heart attack. I can't prove it but I say the pain killers helped him into an early grave. Personally I think it would be worth it for you to have legal help. A lawyer who specializes in SSD can be of more help to you than you think. A lot of them will offer you a free consultation and they can usually tell you some helpful hints. Good luck and thank you for the prayers. Dianne Hay Dianne, thank you for the words of encouragment! Two other friends of mine also mentioned about everybody being denied on the first try as well. I will have to stay vigilant in my pursuit. Now, I'm trying to figure out my next move and contemplating the retaining of legal assistance. I just don't want to have to pay the 25% if successful. Besides that website you list, do you have any specific advice on what I could do to help my chance. How long should I wait to file an appeal? Also, I noticed that my medical records from other doctors were not obtained by the adjudicator. I know that the both of the doctors are no longer in practice because they were taken down by the DEA. Do you know how I might be able to proceed to obtain these missing records? Thanks much! Please know that I'm so sorry that you and some of your family members have been " cursed " with so many medical problems. I will hold a place for you in my prayers. Dave Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 21, 2009 Report Share Posted June 21, 2009 That sure is some story, . I do appreciate you telling me about you experience. --Dave ________________________________ From: Lambert <glambert28@...> spinal problems Sent: Saturday, June 20, 2009 11:59:11 PM Subject: Re: Good morning<Dave> Dave, I've been reading some of you postings about filing SSD, and just wanted to give my experiences with filing. I made the attempt 3 times before I was approved. Never once was able to get an attorney to take my case because they all said I had no chances of winning. Nevertheless I continued on my own and won my case on my own. It's not impossible but very very difficult, now don't go off on your own and try just because I said this, it is just my experiences with SSD. It took me a very long time and I was so ready to give up many times. I just had no choice but to do it myself, and only by the grace of God did I get it, no other explanation but a miracle. I had many family members praying for me also. My only point in telling you this is not give up, your avenues will open up and show themselves when the time comes. Also you said something about not being able to obtain some of your records. ..some may disagree with me on this, but a signed release by you to the SSA will maybe get you those unobtainable records, this I had to reluctantly do myself, due to hostile ex-doctors I fired. I hope this all helps, if I had known upfront that I had to go this way...it would not have taken me almost 5 yrs to get awarded. Bama, george " He is your friend, your partner, your defender, your dog. You are his life, his love, his leader. He will be yours, faithful and true, to the last beat of his heart. You owe it to him to be worthy of such devotion.. " -unknown- ____________ _________ _________ __ From: D Chavez <chavezdymail (DOT) com> spinedisorderssuppo rtgroup@gro ups..com Sent: Saturday, June 20, 2009 11:42:21 AM Subject: Re: Good morning<Dave> Shoot, 30% seems like a good # to me! Too bad I wasn't one of them. I really thought I would be approved because my pain has been occurring for at least 10 years, when I begain going to doctors. I have been visiting with a good amount of doctors since then. I have many records for them to view. Only recently, because primary doc wants to end my long-term narcotic use, have I had more ESI's which didn't work, and am now looking at surgery. When I have been using narcotics, I have been able to handle and cope with the pain, not needing surgery or any other form of treatment. The job was being handled just fine. When I was in college 2 years ago, one of the doctor university doctors that I had seen was so nice and told me to look into Social Security. When I did, as always, it was a waste of time. It's just like all the other times when my loan companies or other places ask if I'm disabled. Because I can work, I always tell them no. As a result, they tell me that nothing can be done. Now, I have finally learned some things about the systems. I don't lie, but may tell them more about the times when I am at my worse than when I am at my best. Exactly what more does your attorney do that a lone applicant cannot or doesn't do for themself? Also, how did you go about securing your attorney? Should I just open the phone book and look for one? Please help! Are you forced to pay them 25% if you win? Can that percent be lowered or are there legal centers that could do the work for free? DAve ____________ _________ _________ __ From: pat040394 <ltpat228comcast (DOT) net> spinedisorderssuppo rtgroup@gro ups.com Sent: Friday, June 19, 2009 5:58:01 PM Subject: Re: Good morning<Dave> Approximately 30% off all applicants are approved the first time. Why such a tiny number? Because Doctor's notes are not that thorough. GET AN ATTORNEY!!! I have one and seems it's working out fabulously my 2nd time around. ~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~ > > It's just that to me, on paper, I thought my condition was severe > enough, in and of itself. Oh well, no big deal. I'll just keep trying. > I have always been a physical person and enjoy actual labor and manual > activities, but you are correct, I do need to switch things up and use > my brain. I have not read any red or green book so I'm no expert. > Although, maybe I should. I'm just thinking about the question of > having depression and brain " problems " . Maybe I can use my brain to get > diagnosed with some sort of mental problem.. I have studied psychology > and would know what to overexaggerate. Nah, that's not me. I could not > and would not ever do such. Anyhow, what is the EMG testing that you > mention. I have not had it performed, nor have I ever heard of it. > > Dave > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 21, 2009 Report Share Posted June 21, 2009 Everything is all good and fine! Yes, the Cubs did win, and they are winning today! ________________________________ From: Dianne <dianne12315@...> spinal problems Sent: Sunday, June 21, 2009 5:10:32 AM Subject: Re: Good morning<Dave> No apologies are necessary here Dave. I undertsand completely. The purpose of us sharing our experiences here is to learn and we shouldn't be afraid that something we say is going to be misconstrued. We are all here to learn from one another not dissect what we each say and if I'm wrong about something I don't mind someone coming in on the conversation and correcting me. I hope the Cubs won. [] Dianne > > Dianne, I'm so sorry if I came across in any of my messages as saying that you mentioned something. I know what you mean and only tried to relay it. In my response, it may have sounded as though I was " blaming " you, but by no means is that the case. I know exactly what you were meaning by telling of your experiences, and my have lacked important information in saying where I " heard " of this. Again, so sorry to all for any problems or confusion that this may have caused. Let's be happy, the Cubs win...after 13 long innings!!! > > Dave > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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