A primary issue in a disability hearing is the impact of a plaintiff’s physical impairment on his or her life. An Augusta Social Security disability lawyer may be able to answer questions regarding an upcoming disability hearing. A key aspect of a disability hearing is the plaintiff’s ability to give an accurate and detailed description of his or her symptoms and impairments.
Physical Symptoms
One way that an Augusta Social Security disability attorney can help a plaintiff prepare is to review the kinds of questions that may come up at the hearing. Following are some sample questions that may be asked at a disability hearing.
- How frequently does the plaintiff see a doctor?
- What treatments or medications is the plaintiff receiving?
- Has the plaintiff experienced side effects as the result of taking pain medication?
- Has the plaintiff tried treatments in addition to medication such as physical therapy, massage or chiropractic manipulation?
Pain Treatment
Another area an Augusta social security disability lawyer may review with a plaintiff is the treatment he or she is receiving for pain. Following are some pain management related questions that may come up at a disability hearing.
- What affect does medication have on the pain?
- How frequently does the plaintiff use pain medication?
- Can the pain be relieved by sitting in a customized chair, frequent shifts in position, bed rest or limiting one’s activities?
- Is the pain relieved by home remedies such as ointments, heating pads or hot baths?
Restrictions and Impairments
Lastly, an Augusta Social Security disability attorney may review the impact that a patient’s injury or illness has on his or her daily life. The purpose of this line of questioning is to determine the extent to which the plaintiff’s condition is affecting his or her ability to work and function. Here are some sample questions regarding impairments and restrictions.
- How has the plaintiff’s condition impacted his or her life?
- Does the plaintiff require the assistance of devices such as brace, cane, shower or bathtub bars, modified door handles, cervical collar, walker, wheelchair or crutches?
- Is the plaintiff’s ability to work affected by pain?
- Is the plaintiff experiencing difficulty with concentration or memory?
- Is the plaintiff anxious, depressed, worried or irritable?
Contact Augusta Social Security Disability Lawyer
An Augusta Social Security disability lawyer may be able to work with a plaintiff to prepare for a disability hearing and all other aspects of an ongoing disability case.