Listing code
11.13
Adult (Part A)
Body system
11.00
Neurological disorders
Subsections
2
Lettered criteria paths
Step in evaluation
3 of 5
Listing match approves the claim
SSA listing text and criteria
Muscular dystrophy , characterized by A or B:
Subsection A
Disorganization of motor function in two extremities (see 11.00D1 ), resulting in an extreme limitation (see 11.00D2 ) in the ability to stand up from a seated position, balance while standing or walking, or use the upper extremities. OR
Subsection B
Marked limitation (see 11.00G2 ) in physical functioning (see 11.00G3a ), and in one of the following: Understanding, remembering, or applying information (see 11.00G3b(i) ); or Interacting with others (see 11.00G3b(ii) ); or Concentrating, persisting, or maintaining pace (see 11.00G3b(iii) ); or Adapting or managing oneself (see 11.00G3b(iv) ).
Source: SSA Blue Book listing 11.13. Last synced 2026-05-04.
Where claims under 11.13 usually fail
One pitfall is matching the diagnosis but not the wording of subsection A or B. Another pitfall is mixing up the severity levels, such as describing problems in walking or arm use without showing the "extreme limitation" tied to standing up, balance while standing or walking, or using the upper extremities. A third pitfall is overlooking that subsection B requires marked limitation in physical functioning plus marked limitation in at least one specific mental area listed in 11.13B. A fourth pitfall is treating mental symptoms as qualifying if they are not presented as limitations in the specific mental functioning areas named in 11.13B.
Medical evidence that strengthens this claim
Medical records should show how muscular dystrophy affects both physical and (for subsection B) mental functioning in the exact areas listed in 11.13. For subsection A, documentation should describe disorganization of motor function in two extremities and tie it to extreme limitation in standing up from a seated position, balancing while standing or walking, or using the upper extremities. For subsection B, documentation should show marked limitation in physical functioning and then identify marked limitation in one of the mental areas named in 11.13B: understanding, remembering, or applying information; interacting with others; concentrating, persisting, or maintaining pace; or adapting or managing oneself.
What happens if your records do not meet this listing
If 11.13 is not met under subsection A or B, the claim moves to the remaining evaluation steps. SSA assesses what can still be done despite the condition (residual functional capacity) and then compares that ability to the kinds of work the person can do. If the limitations still prevent work, eligibility can be decided at that later step even without meeting the exact listing text.
Work activity and the SGA gate for this condition
At the start of an SSDI claim, work activity can affect eligibility, and SSA considers whether the person can do substantial work despite the condition. Muscular dystrophy that meets 11.13A (extreme limitation with standing up, balance while standing or walking, or using the upper extremities) or 11.13B (marked physical functioning limits plus marked limits in one mental area) often describes very significant limits that would make sustained work more difficult. After an approval, the usual SSDI rules allow work attempts and later eligibility protections, but the listing criteria in 11.13A or 11.13B do not replace those general work-activity rules.
Listing 11.13 FAQ
Questions that come up repeatedly for muscular dystrophy , characterized by a or b disability claims.