Qualifying for Disability Benefits with Osteomalacia
Osteomalacia or “soft bones,” is a disease that weakens bones, making them more likely to break. It’s caused by a vitamin D deficiency or the body’s inability to metabolize vitamin D. Osteomalacia most commonly occurs in adults and can cause pain in the bones and hips, bone fractures, and muscle weakness. Patients can also have difficulty walking. To learn more about how the Social Security Administration (SSA) defines this disability, visit Section 1.00 of the Blue Book.
Does Osteomalacia Qualify for Disability?
Osteomalacia is currently not listed in the SSA’s Blue Book. However, people with osteomalacia may qualify for disability benefits by meeting or equaling an existing listing.
Depending on symptoms, osteomalacia patients may meet the listing for inflammatory arthritis. Blue Book Section 14.09 states that applicants must demonstrate persistent inflammation or deformity of one or more major peripheral joints in a lower extremity. Another requirement is having a documented medical need for a walker, bilateral canes, bilateral crutches, or a wheeled and seated mobility device.
In some cases, the symptoms associated with osteomalacia may not be enough to qualify for SSDI on their own. Often, osteomalacia may be comorbid with other health conditions and the SSA includes some of these in its listing of qualifying disabilities:
- Kidney failure and kidney disease
- Celiac disease and other digestive disorders
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Inflammatory arthritis
- Crohn’s disease
- Cholestasis
- Liver disease
- Cancer
- Hypertension
- Diabetes
- Hypothyroidism
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 osteomalacia and believe you may qualify, contact us today for a free disability case evaluation.
