Blog

Attention USPS Federal Workers With Multiple Sclerosis – You May Qualify for FERS Disability Compensation

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease which causes the body to attack the nerve sheaths which covers all nerves in the central nervous system. USPS workers with this condition may be able to qualify for compensation as well as go into an early form of retirement thanks to the Federal Employees Retirement System program, or FERS. It is important to note that any federal worker who suffers a permanent injury or develops a health condition or has an ongoing health condition is eligible for these benefits. That said, having one’s application approved is a completely different story as numerous puzzle pieces have to fit in order for your claim to be accepted. Medical evidence, causation and even the filling of vital paperwork in a sequential manner can all play a pivotal role in whether OPM will accept or deny your claim. It is because of this that you need timely legal assistance in order to not leave any stone unturned and make sure you are approved in as little time as possible, and we’re here to help with that.

Are you looking for a FERS disability compensation attorney? The experienced federal workers’ compensation lawyers at McCready Law serve a national clientele and we’d love to assess your case so we can best advise you on how we can help: simply call us TODAY at 312-444-0214 to speak with one of our compassionate and experienced FERS attorneys. What sets us apart is the fact that we run a bilingual office (hablamos Espanol) and we have nationwide reach, so we can handle your claim regardless of where you are in the country. If you developed or your multiple sclerosis has worsened, please reach out to us NOW at 312-444-0214 so we can help you get started on your FERS disability compensation claim: the call is 100% FREE, and our intake team is standing by.

What Exactly is Multiple Sclerosis?

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic autoimmune disorder which mostly attacks the central nervous system, which encompasses both the spinal cord and the brain. This condition disrupts communication pathways between the brain and other areas of the body, manifesting in a host of symptoms. Multiple sclerosis is a condition of unknown etiology or cause, but it is thought to be caused by a combination of immunological, environment and genetic factors.

Myelin is a covering that surrounds every nerve fiber in the body, and it is needed for the transmission of electric signals between neurons. However, what happens in multiple sclerosis is that the immune system misguidedly attacks this protective layer leading to damage and inflammation, thereby disrupting communication between nerves and the brain, in a phenomenon called demyelination. Demyelination further causes sclerosis or the formation of scar tissue around the nerves, causing them to conduct electrical impulses very slowly or not at all, resulting in a number or puzzling symptoms.

Some of the most common symptoms of multiple sclerosis include:

  1. Physical symptoms such as fatigue and mobility issues, even after resting for an extended period of time, making this symptom debilitating and excruciatingly difficult to work past. In addition, individuals may notice tingling and numbness around their limbs, as well as vision problems caused by the inflammation of the optic nerve in a condition known as optic neuritis which may lead to blindness or blurred vision in one eye.
  2. Bladder and bowel dysfunction may be present, where increased urgency when it comes to using the bathroom. In particular, stress, urge or overflow incontinence may occur, where the individual may lose control of their bladder due to simple actions such as sneezing and coughing or even exercising. Constipation may also be a common concern for some multiple sclerosis patients, and the statistics puts this number at anywhere between 40 to 70 percent. Constipation may be caused due to damage to the nerves which control bowel function, leading to the slowing down of the digestive process, or the reduced physical activity on account of fatigue and mobility issues most patients contend with, which often worsens constipation.
  3. Cognitive and emotional symptoms are also hallmarks of multiple sclerosis in USPS workers, affecting approximately 40 to 70 percent of all individuals with the condition. Patients may have issues with forgetting things, focusing on and paying attention to a work issue or task, problem-solving, processing speed, all of which may impact their relationships and work duties, leading to a dip in their self-esteem. In addition, depression and anxiety may also develop due to both the biological and psychological fallout of the condition

How Does Multiple Sclerosis Prevent a USPS Worker From Carrying Out Their Duties?

Sorting mail, interacting with customers, delivering mail and packages all require a boatload of energy as well as focus. USPS workers with multiple sclerosis may not be able to keep up the pace due to the constant fatigue and mobility issue, which in the end may impact their productivity. In addition, the mobility issues associated with the condition may make it virtually impossible to operate their vehicles or walk up to customer’s porches and properties. In addition, the cognitive dysfunction associated with MS may lead to forgetfulness, misplaced packets, inability to follow instructions and lack of attention to detail. The resultant depression and anxiety may impact the individual’s engagement and motivation, and the anxiety may lead USPS workers with multiple sclerosis to avoid work and withdraw from crucial responsibilities.

FERS Disability Benefits Lawyer for Federal Worker With Multiple Sclerosis – Call Today!

In order to qualify for FERS disability benefits as a federal worker with multiple sclerosis, one must demonstrate how the condition prevents them from being a productive member of the postal service. FERS disability compensation makes it possible for you to leave your present position in the USPS and recover while still receiving a part of your salary. There is so much we haven’t covered in this post, and it’s because of this we’d like to ask that you reach out to us so we can carry out a case assessment to determine your eligibility for FERS disability benefits at no cost to you: please call us NOW at 312-444-0214 to speak with one of our best federal workers’ compensation attorneys. Thanks for choosing McCready Law, and we look forward to helping you.