What role do nonexertional limitations play in disability determinations?

Nonexertional limitations are crucial in disability determinations because they encompass a variety of impairments that affect an individual's ability to perform work-related activities beyond just physical tasks. These limitations can include issues such as difficulties with concentration, persistence, or pace, as well as problems related to sensations, such as pain, and other factors like the need for a specific work environment.

When assessing disability, the Social Security Administration considers both exertional and nonexertional limitations. While exertional limitations refer to physical abilities such as sitting, standing, walking, lifting, and carrying, nonexertional limitations describe constraints that do not directly involve physical strength but can nonetheless affect a person's capacity to work. For instance, a person may be able to lift a certain weight but may struggle with maintaining focus or might require breaks due to psychological conditions. Hence, these nonexertional limitations can significantly impact the types of jobs an individual can perform, even if they possess sufficient physical capability.

In summary, nonexertional limitations play a vital role in ensuring that evaluations of disability are comprehensive, taking into account both physical and mental aspects of an individual's ability to work.