How to Secure SSD Benefits for Your Arthritis
“Arthritis” is a general term that covers several different medical conditions. The most common type of arthritis is osteoarthritis, in which cartilage wears down. This breakdown can cause joint swelling, grating, stiffness, pain, and other issues in the affected joints. However several other types that can cause similar symptoms, including rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis.
It is possible to secure Social Security disability (SSD) benefits for this condition, but not everyone suffering qualifies.
SSD Eligibility
To qualify for SSD benefits, the applicant must:
- Have accrued sufficient Social Security work credits
- Have sufficient recent work credits
- Have one or more diagnosed medical conditions
- Be unable to engage in substantial gainful activity (SGA) due to the condition or conditions
The Social Security Administration (SSA) approaches determining whether you meet their definition of disabled in two different ways. One is to determine whether your medical condition meets or equals a condition listed in the Social Security Blue Book. The Blue Book lists many medical conditions, along with specific criteria to be deemed disabled under that listing.
However, the type of arthritis you suffer from and what part of your body is affected determines which listing the SSA applies. For instance, osteoarthritis is evaluated under the musculoskeletal section of the Blue Book. But, arthritis of the spine is assessed under a different set of criteria than arthritis that has caused abnormality in a major joint in the knee, elbow, wrist or ankle.
Rheumatoid arthritis, though the disabling symptoms may be very similar to those of osteoarthritis, is evaluated as an immune system disorder. The criteria for evaluating different types in different parts of the body are too extensive to list in full here. However, an experienced disability benefits advocate can help you determine which listing or listings apply in your circumstances and what type of medical evidence will be required to show that you meet or equal the listing.
SSD for Arthritis that Doesn’t Meet a Blue Book Listing
If your condition doesn’t meet a Blue Book listing, you may still qualify for SSD benefits. Some situations in which you may still be eligible for disability include:
- Osteoarthritis affecting multiple body parts in a way that combines to prevent engaging in SGA, even though the applicant didn’t meet the listing for any single body part
- Arthritis combined with one or more other conditions that together leave the applicant unable to engage in SGA
When you don’t meet a listing for a single condition, the analysis is more holistic, and takes into account your age, education, and work history. Older applicants with work experience limited to heavier physical labor are more likely to be found to be disabled.
Take the Next Step Right Now
Whether you’re just about to file for SSD or have been denied and want to appeal, Disability Help Group is here for you. Our experienced advocates have deep knowledge of the SSD application and appeals processes and the type of evidence required to prove your claim. Call us today at 800-800-3332 to hear how we can help or click here to complete our contact form.
