If you are unable to use either hand, regardless of the cause, this can provide a basis for presenting a strong case to the Social Security Administration. If you lost the use of your dominant hand, there is a very strong argument to be made that you would have difficulty in retraining for other jobs. The Social Security Administration places great emphasis on bimanual dexterity (using both hands together) and any interference with the use of both hands needs to be presented to the Social Security judge in detail.
Issues for the Social Security Administration:
- Can you make fist
- Can you touch your thumb to the other four fingers
- Can you write with a pencil or a pen
- Can you assemble small items, such as a ballpoint pen
- Can you pick up a coin laid flat on a table
- Can you type on a computer keyboard
- Can you prepare a meal and feed yourself
- Can you take care of your personal hygiene
- Can you sort and handle papers or files
- Can you button your own clothes
- Can you tie your shoes
Gregory Kornegay,
