Fibromyalgia

Chronic pain can have a debilitating effect on a person’s day-to-day life, and particularly on their ability to effectively perform at their job. Fibromyalgia, one of the most common forms of chronic pain, can be particularly challenging because it affects a large area of the body and can take a significant amount of time to diagnose. Fibromyalgia disproportionately affects women, and may also lead to other conditions or disorders, such as depression or addiction issues. Experiencing chronic pain without an obvious explanation is not only physically debilitating but can lead to feelings of frustration and hopelessness. While there is not currently a cure, there are treatment options that can assist sufferers with managing symptoms.

Performing the functions of one’s job can be especially challenging with a condition such as fibromyalgia. Working through pain and fatigue is extremely difficult and may even pose a health and safety risk in some professions. When a legitimate claim for long-term disability associated with fibromyalgia is denied or terminated, claimants understandably often experience a sense of hopelessness and fear about the future. At MK Disability Lawyers, we work with clients suffering from fibromyalgia and facing long-term disability disputes on a regular basis. We understand how to present a case demonstrating the very real pain of fibromyalgia that insurance providers take seriously.

What is Fibromyalgia and How is it Diagnosed?

Fibromyalgia, defined as chronic, widespread musculoskeletal pain accompanied by fatigue, cognition, mood and sleep issues, can be especially frustrating due to the lack of an apparent cause or source. The condition has been found to be related in some cases to trauma such as a motor vehicle accident and can also be more common in those suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. The three most common symptoms of fibromyalgia are as follows:

Pain Throughout the Body

The physical pain associated with fibromyalgia is widespread and long-lasting. Before diagnosis, the sufferer will generally experience what is often classified as a dull aching sensation for at least three months. In addition, the pain will not be isolated to one area of the body – it will be felt on both sides, above and below the waist.

Fatigue

Sleeping can be difficult while experiencing pain, and pain can disrupt sleep without the sufferer even realizing it. In addition, many people with fibromyalgia also suffer from restless leg syndrome or sleep apnea, so fatigue is a common ailment for those dealing with fibromyalgia.

Cognitive Challenges

Often referred to as “fribo fog”, those with fibromyalgia also commonly have difficulty focusing, paying attention and concentrating on mental tasks. This can be a considerable challenge for those trying to work in most occupations.

Other Symptoms

In addition to the three most common symptoms listed above, fibromyalgia may also cause one or more of the following issues:

• Irritable bowel syndrome;
• Headaches;
• Jaw pain;
• Anxiety or depression; and
• Frequent or painful urination.

Diagnosing fibromyalgia is not as simple as administering a blood test or examining an x-ray. There is no one test, and so medical professionals must rely on an examination of symptoms while ruling out other potential causes such as mental health issues, neurological disorders or rheumatic diseases. Each of these conditions also has symptoms that may mimic those found in fibromyalgia sufferers.

A Focus on Accommodation and Understanding

At MK Disability Lawyers, we have seen what our clients go through when dealing with fibromyalgia, and we have the utmost sympathy for the physical and emotional burdens they face day-to-day. Going through a prolonged and stressful dispute with their insurance company is the last thing they want to deal with, and so we take on that challenge on their behalf. We are able to provide a range of accommodations for those suffering with chronic pain conditions and work with each client to determine how best to serve their needs in order to reduce stress on them and make the process as easy as possible, even handling much of the process remotely if clients find it difficult to leave home due to pain or related conditions.

For Exceptionally Experienced Representation in Fibromyalgia Long-Term Disability Claims, Contact MK Disability Lawyers

At MK Disability Lawyers, we do everything we can to secure a favourable outcome for clients involved in disputes concerning their long-term disability claims for fibromyalgia. We have an insider’s understanding of how the insurance providers work and we know how best to present a client’s case for a successful result. We will shoulder the challenges of disputing a claim denial or termination on behalf of our clients so they can focus their efforts on their health and well-being.  If you have had a long-term disability claim for fibromyalgia denied or terminated, we can help. To arrange a complimentary consultation with one of our experienced disability lawyers, please complete the online form, or call us at 844-241-3832.