Nervous System Disorders and Long-Term Disability Benefits in Canada

Known as the body’s command centre, the nervous system is responsible for almost every action, thought, and feeling we experience. It is made up of the brain and spinal cord, as well as billions of nerve cells called neurons. It affects every aspect of our health, including voluntary processes such as walking and speaking, and involuntary processes such as breathing and digestion.

When the nervous system is impacted by disease or blunt force trauma, such as in a catastrophic injury, a person’s life can be fundamentally altered. Damaged nerves are less able to send and receive messages, which can have devastating impacts depending on the location of the damage. If, for example, the damaged nerves are located in the spinal cord, a person may be paralyzed below the site of injury.

Nervous system disorders can render a person unable to work, either temporarily or for the rest of their life. Facing an inability to earn an income can be tremendously stressful, especially while recovering from an injury or while adjusting to one’s new physical conditions. Long-term disability benefits may be available to individuals with a disabling nervous system disorder, to help provide financial relief.

To discuss your particular circumstances, including what support may be available to you, contact our long-term disability lawyers today to schedule a free initial consultation.

What Is the Nervous System?

The nervous system is made up of the brain, spinal cord, and an intricate network of nerves that reach almost every part of the body. From regulating temperature to forming thoughts and feelings, the nervous system commands voluntary and involuntary processes alike.

Specialized cells known as neurons transmit electrical signals between organs and the brain. Sensory neurons in the skin, eyes, tongue, ears and nose send the brain signals about sensations or conditions in the environment. The brain may then transmit impulses to motor neurons, which tell the muscles to move.

Other forms of neurons govern automatic processes such as breath, the heartbeat, and digestion.

There are two main parts to the nervous system: the central nervous system (CNS) and the peripheral nervous system (PSN).

The CNS is made up of the brain and spinal cord. The brain is the processing centre of the body. It receives information and sends instructions for both voluntary and involuntary processes. Neurons in the CNS are protected by myelin sheaths, which provide insulation essential to healthy sensory and motor function. Damage to myelin sheaths can have profound impacts on a person’s movement and cognitive function. Multiple sclerosis is a disorder in which the immune system attacks myelin, leading to neurological adversities.

The PNS is made up of nerves branching out from the CNS across the body into the internal organs and limbs. The peripheral nervous system oversees the somatic nervous system (responsible for voluntary movement) and the autonomic nervous system (responsible for involuntary movement).

Types of Nervous System Disorders

Nervous system disorders can be caused by genetic factors, such as inherited predispositions, as well as by environmental factors such as viruses, stress, and injuries. Some nervous system disorders can be resolved with appropriate treatment, while others may require a lifetime of ongoing medical care.

Examples of nervous system disorders include:

  • “Tunnel” syndromes (carpal, cubital, tarsal)
  • Concussion
  • Acute spinal cord injuries
  • Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
  • Epilepsy
  • Parkinson’s Disease
  • Cerebral palsy
  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Myasthenia gravis
  • Syringomyelia
  • Stroke
  • Traumatic brain injury
  • Alzheimer’s disease
  • Guillain-Barré syndrome
  • Seizure disorder
  • Bell’s palsy
  • Paralysis
  • Peripheral neuropathy
  • Meralgia paresthetica
  • Dystonia
  • Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy
  • Migraines and other severe headaches
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Meningitis
  • Brain hemorrhage
  • Aneurysm
  • And more

Depending on the condition, nervous system disorders can have disabling impacts on a person’s life. If you are unable to work as a result of your nervous system disorder, you may be eligible for long-term disability benefits. Contact us today to discuss how our long-term disability lawyers may be able to help.

Long-Term Disability Coverage for Nervous System Disorders

Eligible policyholders may be able to receive between 60-70% of their regular income through long-term disability benefits. This can provide vital support during prolonged periods away from work, relieving financial stress on the affected individual and their family.

It can be challenging, especially when navigating a debilitating condition, to navigate the administrative process of filing a claim. At Preszler Injury Lawyers, we prioritize efficient, results-oriented service to our clients, striving to achieve the result you deserve.

If you have filed a long-term disability claim and an insurance provider has denied it, you may be eligible to file an appeal. Contact our long-term disability lawyers today to schedule a free initial consultation and discuss what may be possible for you.

Contact Our Ontario Nervous System Disorders Lawyers Today For a Free Initial Consultation

The nervous system affects nearly every aspect of the human body, governing both voluntary and involuntary processes essential to everything from sensation and movement to breathing and maintaining a heartbeat. Nervous system disorders, whether brought on by hereditary factors or an injury such as in a car accident, can have profound impacts on an individual’s life.

If you are no longer able to maintain your regular form of employment as a result of a disabling nervous system disorder, you may be eligible to receive up to 70% of your income through long-term disability benefits. Our team at Preszler Injury Lawyers may be able to help you navigate your claim.

Contact us today to schedule a free initial consultation with our long-term disability lawyers, and learn more on what support may be available for you.