Package handlers spend years lifting, carrying, stacking, and moving thousands of boxes—often in fast-paced and physically demanding environments. Over time, these repetitive tasks can lead to chronic back injuries that make full-time work impossible.
When your condition prevents you from maintaining regular employment, you may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). Filing for SSDI can be challenging, especially for musculoskeletal conditions, but PLBH can help you gather the medical evidence needed to support your claim. Contact us at (800) 435-7542 for a free legal consultation.
How Package Handling Leads to Chronic Back Problems
Chronic back injuries often develop slowly due to years of physical strain. Common job tasks that contribute to long-term issues include:
- Repeated lifting of heavy boxes
- Twisting or bending to place items on shelves or trucks
- Carrying awkward or oversized packages
- Long shifts without adequate rest
- Fast-paced quotas that encourage rushing
- Working on hard concrete floors for extended periods
These workplace demands can cause degenerative damage even when workers use proper lifting techniques.
Types of Back Injuries That May Qualify for SSDI
SSDI claims for back injuries must show that the condition is severe, long-lasting, and prevents full-time work.
Eligible conditions may include:
- Degenerative disc disease
- Herniated or bulging discs
- Sciatica or nerve compression
- Chronic lumbar or thoracic pain
- Spinal stenosis
- Musculoskeletal disorders requiring surgery
- Mobility limitations requiring assistive devices
The Social Security Administration (SSA) does not approve claims solely based on pain; documented medical evidence is essential.
What You Need to Prove in an SSDI Claim
To qualify for SSDI, you must show that:
- Your condition is medically diagnosed
- It has lasted or is expected to last at least 12 months
- It prevents you from performing your past work
- It prevents you from working in any other full-time job
This requires detailed medical records and functional limitations that demonstrate how your injury impacts daily activities.
Important Evidence for SSDI Back Injury Claims
Strong evidence typically includes:
- MRI or X-ray imaging showing structural damage
- Doctor’s reports documenting pain, limitations, and failed treatments
- Work restrictions or limitations from your physician
- Physical therapy records
- Medication history
- Pain logs detailing frequency and severity
- Statements from coworkers or supervisors about your job demands
The more detailed the documentation, the stronger your claim.
Common Reasons SSDI Back Injury Claims Are Denied
The SSA frequently denies back injury claims because:
- Pain is subjective and difficult to measure
- Medical records lack objective imaging results
- The applicant can still perform sedentary work
- The claim does not include enough functional limitations
- Treatment history is incomplete or inconsistent
Many applicants are denied on their first attempt but later approved with additional evidence.
How PLBH Helps Workers with SSDI Claims
Navigating the SSDI process alone can be overwhelming. PLBH supports workers by:
- Reviewing medical records and identifying gaps
- Helping gather new or updated documentation
- Preparing strong initial applications
- Filing appeals when claims are denied
- Demonstrating how chronic back injuries limit full-time work
Package handling takes a long-term toll on the body, and SSDI exists to support workers who can no longer maintain employment because of chronic injuries.
Call (800) 435-7542 to speak with PLBH and learn how to move forward with your SSDI application.