Qualifying for Disability Benefits with Bursitis
Bursitis is a painful condition that affects the small, fluid-filled sacs — called bursae — that cushion the bones, tendons and muscles near your joints. Bursitis occurs when bursae become inflamed. The most common locations for bursitis are in the shoulder, elbow and hip. But you can also have bursitis by your knee, heel and the base of your big toe. Bursitis often occurs near joints that perform frequent repetitive motion. Treatment typically involves resting the affected joint and protecting it from further trauma. In most cases, bursitis pain goes away within a few weeks with proper treatment, but recurrent flare-ups of bursitis are common. To learn more about how the Social Security Administration (SSA) defines this disability, visit Section 1.00 of the Blue Book.
Does Bursitis Qualify for Disability?
Although bursitis is not specifically listed in the SSA’s Blue Book, an applicant’s symptoms may meet the qualifications of another listing. Many bursitis cases are evaluated as “Major Joint Dysfunction.” If your bursitis symptoms have caused chronic pain or immobility of a major joint, you may be eligible for disability benefits under “Major Joint Dysfunction.”
In order to qualify, your bursitis must be affecting your joints to the point that you are no longer able to perform the physical tasks necessary to work. To determine this, you must meet one of the following requirements:
- You are unable to walk at a reasonable pace without the assistance of medical equipment
- You must have assistance traveling to school or work
- You are unable to use your arms to reach, push, pull, grasp, or carry
To qualify for benefits, the applicant will need to provide medical documentation that proves major joint dysfunction limits his or her ability to work. This documentation can include:
- Any applicable medical images
- Medical history of treatments and medications
- Doctors’ notes detailing symptoms, history, and applicant’s ability to work
- History of bursitis related hospitalizations
How Do I Apply for Disability Benefits?
To apply for disability benefits, it’s important to understand the disability application process. If you’ve been diagnosed with bursitis and believe you may qualify, contact us today for a free disability case evaluation.
