UndividedHeart

I found articles on my particular back problem, which was a torn annulus. I found articles on the Artificial Disc Replacement, which at the time was not being done in the US. I found articles that actually explained how sitting, standing, walking with a torn annulus causes increased pain. I don't remember the articles I found, but it really proves that you are limited to work, because anytime you are bearing weight on the lower back your pain increases. You can try looking under articles produced by Dr. Charles Aprill. He was located in New Orleans, but I don't know if he is still in New Orleans post Katrina. Anyway he might have some articles to this affect. I have moved several times since I had my hearing so I don't know what happen to the articles. Someone replied that you could put your documentation with the application, which is probably a good idea. My attorney did not even want to give the judge the articles, but I insisted on it. And yes in my state they almost always deny you the 1st time, but make sure you appeal. Make sure also that when you appeal you send it certified mail. I didn't and they claimed they didn't get my appeal, so I had to reapply. I hope all goes well for you and if you need anything else please let me know. Try to have a blessed day.

I am really sorry to hear that you are having such a difficult time. I also injured my back. I have not been able to work in 7 years. Life was very difficult and things seemed to just get worse for a while. I can relate to a lot of what you said. My health went to pot and I was in so much pain. I am doing great now, and I look back and don't know how I lived with all that pain. I forgot what it was like to not have pain. I had an Artificial Disc Replacement at L4-5 in November of 2006. My disc was torn to the inter annulus. This surgery has been a major success. I am going to the doc this week and he will hopefully release me to return to work. I know that they were not doing this surgery on multiple levels, but it would be worth checking into. Make sure you get a doc that has been doing it more than a couple of years. I know you know this. My doctor is Dr. Isaza, he is wonderful. I would apply for Social Security Disability as soon as possible. I know it is a long process, but it is well worth it. I am young as well and I fought for it and got it. The medical part saved me. It has been so long since I received it. I did all kinds of research myself and brought articles and documentation to the hearing. My attorney did not win it for me. The judge told me he would not have awarded me it, if it would not have been for the articles and documentation. The sad part about being injured is you have to make sure that you are taken care of. Usually, others will not do it for you, even when you are paying them. I don't know what state you live in, but I would check into your Medicaid system, welfare system, food stamps, etc. These all can be a big help if you can actually get them. Also if you are taking medications you can contact the drug company that makes the medication you are on, and ask for patient assistance. I got some of my medications for free this way. Also you can check out http://www.nursinghouse.org they help disabled nurses. I was not able to get help from them due to Workman's Comp, but they are supposed to help you with your bills. I know that you might not want to hear this but the only way that I got through my ordeal was with the help of God. Now I look at my trails and can see the good that came about because of them. I know for a fact that I would not have the relationship that I have with God if I had not been through this ordeal. So for me it was a blessing in disguise. I had to rely on Christ so much everyday. I used my time to study His word, and I believe that God in returned blessed me with healing. God healed many of my health problems even the doctors will agree. I prayed and many people prayed for many years and I finally received answered prayer. It was in God's timing. His will is not for everyone to be healed, but in my case it was. Now I have to tell my story to bring Him the glory. I will pray for you. If you need anything please contact me. Thank you and God Bless You