For many people affected by Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) and hereditary neuropathy, the first signs and symptoms develop in childhood or early adulthood. Progressive weakness and loss of muscle control in the hands, feet, arms, and legs are among the most common symptoms that can prevent employment. Deformity of the feet, hip dysplasia, fatigue, and nerve and musculoskeletal pain may also contribute to disability.

While some people are able to maintain a job with CMT, the progressive nature of the disorder may eventually make it impossible for you to work.

If you are no longer able to perform your essential job duties and cannot find alternative employment, then you may qualify for Social Security Disability benefits with hereditary neuropathy.

Medically Qualifying Under A Disability Listing:

CMT is a form of peripheral neuropathy, meaning it affects the nerves and muscles in the arms, legs, hands, and feet. The Social Security Administration (SSA) has a standard disability listing for this type of neurological disorder.

The Peripheral Neuropathy listing appears in the Blue Book, which is the SSA’s manual of conditions that “automatically” meet program eligibility requirements.

To meet the peripheral neuropathy listing, your CMT must:

• Severely disrupt your motor function and coordination.

• Affect at least two extremities.

• Cause significant issues with walking, standing, reaching, grasping, pushing, pulling, or other activities that require control of your major muscle groups.

The SSA also needs to see in your medical record that your symptoms are persistent despite following prescribed treatments.

Qualifying Without Meeting A Listed Disability:

It can be challenging to qualify without meeting a disability listing, but it is possible to prove you’re disabled by CMT through other means.

The SSA will need to take a closer look at your activities of daily living. This is done through an RFC or “residual functional capacity” evaluation. During an RFC, you and your doctor provide the SSA complete functional capacity questionnaires. These forms ask for details on everyday activities, like cleaning your home, preparing meals, or taking care of pets.

Your answers give the SSA more to work with in determining if you’re unable to perform common and essential job duties. If the RFC shows you’re so limited that you cannot work in any active or sedentary job, then you can be approved for benefits.

Supporting Your Claim For Benefits

Medical records are the key to approval, whether you meet the SSA’s peripheral neuropathy listing or must go through an RFC evaluation.

To be found medically eligible, you must have specific medical records including:

• A definitive CMT diagnosis, achieved through genetic testing, a muscle or nerve biopsy, or similar means.

• Records of the progression of your symptoms.

• EMG and other neurological exam results.

• Treatment and symptom management records.

A detailed statement from your physician can be a tremendous asset in your application for benefits as well. He or she can help you clearly communicate the full extent of your CMT’s affects on your everyday life, including how it limits or prevents your ability to work.

Applying For Benefits

With CMT, you may be able to qualify for benefits through one or both of the SSA’s disability programs. A separate application is necessary for each.

• When applying for SSI, you must participate in a personal interview with an SSA representative. This is usually done at the local office.

• SSDI applications can be completed at the local office too, or you can submit your application online, via the SSA’s website