Is Grade 1 Retrolisthesis Considered a Disability?
Yes, Grade 1 retrolisthesis can qualify as a disability under Social Security Administration (SSA) rules if it prevents you from working for at least 12 months. Many people ask, is retrolisthesis a disability? The answer depends on the severity of your condition and how it limits your ability to live your every day life.
In the SSA’s Blue Book, retrolisthesis falls under the many disorders of the spine which can be found listed in section 1.0 under the Musculoskeletal System.
Retrolisthesis is a spinal condition where one vertebra slips backward over the vertebra below it. In retrolisthesis grade 1, the displacement is mild, but even mild slippage can cause chronic pain, nerve compression, and functional limitations. Approval for disability depends on:
- The severity of your spinal instability
- Whether your symptoms last or are expected to last at least 12 months
- Medical documentation confirming the diagnosis
- How your condition affects your ability to work full time
The SSA evaluates spinal disorders under Section 1.00 (Musculoskeletal System), and applicants may qualify for SSDI or SSI depending on their work history and financial situation.
Common Retrolisthesis Symptoms the SSA Looks For
The SSA evaluates retrolisthesis grade 1 based on how symptoms affect mobility, strength, endurance, and neurological functioning.
Common symptoms of retrolisthesis include:
- Chronic lower back or neck pain
- Muscle weakness
- Numbness or tingling in the arms or legs
- Reduced spinal range of motion
- Radiating nerve pain
- Difficulty sitting or standing for long periods
When these symptoms significantly limit your ability to move, sit, stand, lift, or maintain consistent attendance at work, they may support a disability claim. The more clearly your medical records show that retrolisthesis grade 1 interferes with reliable, full-time functioning, the stronger your case for Social Security disability benefits will be.
How Grade 1 Retrolisthesis Can Affect Your Ability to Work
Even though retrolisthesis grade 1 is considered a “mild” spinal slippage, it can significantly interfere with job performance.
Work-related limitations may include:
- Difficulty lifting or carrying objects
- Trouble bending, twisting, or climbing stairs
- Inability to stand or sit for extended periods
- Chronic back pain reducing productivity
- Fatigue caused by ongoing pain
- Reduced mobility or balance
Jobs that require physical labor may become impossible. Even sedentary work can be difficult if pain prevents prolonged sitting or concentration.
If retrolisthesis prevents you from maintaining substantial gainful activity for 12 months or longer, you may qualify for disability benefits.
When Grade 1 retrolisthesis causes nerve compression or ongoing spinal instability, even mild vertebral displacement can create disabling limitations.
SSA Medical Criteria for Spinal Disorders
The SSA requires objective medical evidence to approve disability for Grade 1 retrolisthesis. Evidence may include:
- X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans showing vertebral displacement
- Measurements confirming vertebra slippage (often over 2 mm)
- Physical examinations documenting limited motion
- Neurological findings showing nerve involvement
- Treatment history and response
- Use of assistive devices such as braces or canes
- Documentation of how daily activities are affected
Even if retrolisthesis grade 1 does not exactly match a Blue Book listing, you can still qualify if your symptoms prevent full-time work.
If You Don’t Meet the SSA Listing With Retrolisthesis
Many applicants are approved even if they do not perfectly match a spinal listing.
In these cases, the SSA evaluates your Residual Functional Capacity (RFC). The RFC measures what you can still do despite your spinal condition. You may qualify via an RFC based on:
- Inability to stand or walk for 6–8 hours
- Need to change positions frequently
- Limited ability to lift more than 5–10 pounds
- Chronic pain reducing pace and productivity
- Need for unscheduled breaksDifficulty performing fine motor tasks
If Grade 1 retrolisthesis causes degenerative progression, worsening nerve pain, or failed treatments, those factors can significantly strengthen your disability claim.
Qualifying for SSI With Grade 1 Retrolisthesis
SSI is based on financial need. In order to qualify for SSI with grade 1 retrolisthesis, you need to meet the financial requirements, in addition to meeting the medical requirements outlined as well. To qualify for SSI with retrolisthesis, you must:
- Meet strict income limits
- Meet asset limits (generally $2,000 for individuals)
- Prove your condition prevents substantial gainful activity
Strong disability claims often include:
- Consistent orthopedic or neurological treatment
- Imaging results confirming vertebral slippage
- Physical therapy records
- Documentation of failed conservative treatments
- Work history showing reduced capacity
Initial denials are common. Appeals are a normal part of the disability claim process.
How Much Does Disability Pay With Grade 1 Retrolisthesis?
Disability benefits are not based on the diagnosis itself, but on the program you qualify for. SSDI payments are based on your work history and prior earnings.
The average monthly SSDI benefit typically ranges between $1,300 and $1,700, though some individuals may receive up to approximately $4,000+ per month.
SSI payments are income-based and capped at the federal maximum. In 2026, SSI may pay up to approximately $990 per month for individuals and about $1,490 for couples, with possible state supplements.
Some applicants may also receive back pay depending on when their disability began and when they applied. Retrolisthesis is treated like other physical impairments when calculating benefit amounts.
How to Apply for Disability With Grade 1 Retrolisthesis
Applying for disability with Grade 1 retrolisthesis requires thorough preparation and detailed medical documentation. Because approval depends heavily on how your spinal condition disability limits your ability to work, it is important to build a strong record before submitting your application.
You can apply for disability benefits online through the Social Security Administration (SSA) website if you are filing for SSDI, by scheduling a phone appointment with the SSA, or by visiting your local Social Security office in person.
When completing your application, you will need to provide detailed information about your diagnosis, treatment history, symptoms, and work limitations.
Throughout the application process, you should continue treatment with your physician and follow all prescribed therapies. The SSA looks closely at whether you are receiving consistent medical care and whether your condition persists despite treatment.
It is also important to document your pain levels, mobility limitations, missed workdays, and any medication side effects that interfere with concentration or physical functioning.
You should gather objective medical evidence such as imaging results (including X-rays or MRIs), detailed physician statements, Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) forms explaining your work restrictions, and physical therapy records.
Statements from employers or family members describing how your retrolisthesis affects your daily functioning can further strengthen your claim.
Submitting a well-documented application at the initial stage can significantly improve your chances of approval and may reduce the need for a lengthy appeals process.
How a Disability Lawyer Can Help
A disability lawyer can help organize medical evidence, ensure your RFC accurately reflects your limitations, communicate with the SSA, and handle appeals if necessary.
Because spinal disorder claims like Grade 1 retrolisthesis often hinge on functional limitations rather than the diagnosis alone, professional representation can significantly improve outcomes. There are no upfront fees. Disability attorneys are paid only if you win your case.
Get Help With Your Grade 1 Retrolisthesis Disability Claim Today
If retrolisthesis or retrolisthesis grade 1 is preventing you from working, you may qualify for disability benefits. Getting professional guidance early can improve your chances of approval.
Get a free disability evaluation today to better understand your eligibility and next steps.
