Can you get a handicap sticker for fibromyalgia

In most states, versions of the following types of permits are available:. The following types of medical professionals can verify an application for a handicap sticker for fibromyalgia in most US states:. Other than fibromyalgia, there is a long list of medical conditions that qualify a person to use disabled parking. The full list of qualifying conditions that apply in the vast majority of states is as follows:. Handicap stickers for fibromyalgia need to be renewed when they expire.

Handicap parking permits in each state expire after different periods of time. If you have to walk halfway across the parking lot, you're already expending a lot of energy before you arrive at your destination. Even if it's just a few extra feet closer to the door, this can make a significant impact on your pain and strength to finish your errands.

The abuse of handicap parking permits may also be a disincentive for some people. Too often, people who are not entitled to park in handicap parking spots use them anyway. With limited spots available, that makes it seem futile, but it's not. Handicap parking permits belong in the right hands. People with invisible disabilities those that do not show outwardly may fear being mistaken for an abuser of handicap parking privileges.

You might feel that it is not worth being glared at or harassed. However, you are fully entitled to have a handicap parking permit if your healthcare provider approves it. If you have a disabling condition that makes you eligible for a handicap parking permit, talk to your healthcare provider.

Don't wait for them to bring it up to you. Your healthcare provider is very busy and it is unlikely that this is on his mind. If you are eligible, your healthcare provider will not hesitate to sign the paperwork for you to get a handicap parking placard.

Do you know what you need to do to obtain a handicap parking permit? There are subtle differences between the states regarding what is required. Some states charge a processing fee while others offer permits for free. Some states require a healthcare provider's prescription along with an application. We've compiled the information you need to obtain a handicap parking permit in your state. Check below for your state's requirements. Yes, the signs have a picture of a wheelchair, but that doesn't mean only people in chairs can park there.

In fact, in many U. In some states, it's 50 or feet rather than Other states use different wording, such as:. If you have fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome, it's fairly likely that you can't walk very far without needing to rest, at least on a bad day.

Many do, at some point, need a cane for balance or due to pain in the legs or hips. And remember, fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome are, at least in part, neurological.

If any of the above statements describes you, then, by definition, you qualify for handicapped parking. If you find yourself saying, "Yes, but that's only on a bad day.

Some states, however, are more restrictive. For example, New York requires one of the following:. Fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome aren't considered neuro-muscular, so that wouldn't help. However, some of the symptoms may qualify you under the third one. For instance, if you're prone to anxiety attacks in crowds, that could make public transportation a problem for you. Also, walking to the bus stop or subway station might not be possible. The process for getting a handicapped plate or placard is pretty simple.

First, find your state's requirements and forms. Many links are provided below. One of the ways to do this is by having a disabled parking permit. Read on to find out exactly how chronic pain sufferers can benefit from having a disabled parking permit. There can be countless reasons for having chronic pain. Some older people experience pain because bones and joints are often affected by the aging process. Sometimes chronic pain like back pain can be caused by a combination of factors.

There are also specific conditions that can be at the root of chronic pain, including rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and fibromyalgia. A myriad of other diseases like cancer, multiple sclerosis, AIDS, stomach ulcers, and gallbladder disease can all cause chronic pain.