Qualifying for Disability Benefits with Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, affecting millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones wears down over time. Although osteoarthritis can damage any joint, the disorder most commonly affects joints in your hands, knees, hips and spine. Osteoarthritis symptoms can usually be managed, although the damage to joints can’t be reversed. Staying active, maintaining a healthy weight and receiving certain treatments might slow progression of the disease and help improve pain and joint function. To learn more about how the Social Security Administration (SSA) defines this disability, visit Section 1.00 of the Blue Book.
Does Osteoarthritis Qualify for Disability?
Osteoarthritis is not listed as an impairment by the SSA, however, may still qualify for benefits. The SSA has a few listings under which they evaluate osteoarthritis:
- 1.18 Abnormality of a major joint(s) in any extremity
- 1.15 Disorders of the skeletal spine resulting in compromise of a nerve root(s)
- 1.16 Lumbar spinal stenosis resulting in compromise of the cauda equina
To meet the requirements of a listing for spinal disorders (1.15 or 1.16), you must have a diagnosis of osteoarthritis in your spine and:
- Narrowing of the spinal canal in the lower back making it difficult to walk or use your hands; or
- Compression of a spinal nerve root making it difficult to walk or use your hands
To qualify under listings for joint dysfunction (1.18), you must show medical evidence of one of the following:
- An obvious deformity in a joint; or
- Destruction of bone; or
- Joint space narrowing; or
- Fused joints or bones
AND
- You must have a history of joint pain, stiffness, instability and reduced range of motion; and
- Documentation of the need to use a walker, two canes or two crutches, or a wheelchair or scooter that requires both hands; or
- You are unable to use one hand due to osteoarthritis and need to use the other to operate a one-handed wheelchair, cane, crutch or other device; or
- You are unable to use either arm or hand for work
You may also be eligible for disability benefits if you have had reconstructive surgery of a major weight bearing joint such as a hip or a knee (See Section 1.17).
The SSA evaluates your claim based on your medical evidence which includes doctors’ notes, hospital records and laboratory tests. If you cannot meet the listing requirements you may still qualify if your functional limitations prevent you from doing any job.
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 osteoarthritis and believe you may qualify, contact us today for a free disability case evaluation.
