Doctors Dont Know What Triggers The Process But Believe Several Risk Factors Are Involved:
- Gender. Women are two to three times more likely to develop rheumatoid arthritis, leading researchers to believe that hormones may play a role in preventing or triggering the disease.
- Age. RA can occur at any age, but usually begins in middle age.
- Family history. An individual who has a family member with RA has an increased risk of developing the disease.
- Smoking. Smoking is also associated with increased severity of RA.
- Environment. Exposure to asbestos or silica carries increased risk.
Type Of Arthritis Qualifies For Disability
There are many types of arthritis, and each can have different effects on a persons ability to function. Some types of arthritis may make it difficult to walk or climb stairs, while others may cause pain and stiffness that makes it hard to grip objects or perform other daily activities. Arthritis such as rheumatoid arthritis, spinal osteoarthritis, and osteoarthritis qualify for benefits.
You May Meet This Standard Yet Your Social Security Disability Claim May Be Denied
If a claim does not meet the boards standards or if an application is incomplete, then a valid claim could be rejected. Unfortunately, most people who apply for Social Security disability benefits are deniedeven if they have significant difficulty walking, moving, or performing everyday tasks.
When a claim is rejected, the SSA board will send a denial letter to the claimant, specifically addressing the inconsistencies or factors that disqualified the claim. Receiving this letter does not necessarily mean that you are ineligible for benefits. In many cases, the board just requires additional information and evidence that proves the severity of the condition and need for assistance. This is where the appeals process comes into play.
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If You Need A Hip Replacement
Some individuals with severe hip pain face the possibility of a total hip replacement. While this procedure is 95% effective for those who have surgery, a small number of people face long-term continuation or worsening of the problem.
Hip replacements are specifically listed in the Social Securitys medical guide, often referred to as the Blue Book, under Musculoskeletal Section 1.03. Those people who have had reconstructive surgery of the hip and are unable to ambulate for a year after the operation would be considered disabled under the SSAs definition of disability.
These individuals must be incapable of sustaining a reasonable walking pace over a sufficient distance to maintain their activities of daily living. For example, if a year after your hip replacement surgery you have difficulty getting to work without the use of a walker, two crutches, or help from another individual, you might be considered for financial assistance from the SSA. Further, if you have trouble going to the grocery store or the bank without significant support, you are a likely disability candidate.
If it is determined that you do not meet a Blue Book listing for your disability you might still qualify for assistance through a medical-vocational allowance. Using a residual functional capacity assessment, the SSA will determine if your limitations are so severe as to keep you from being able to perform a job.
Can I Still Drive If I Have Arthritis
If your arthritis affects your ability to drive, you must let the DVLA know. This doesnt mean that you will have to stop driving, but its a legal obligation for you to declare certain conditions to the DVLA.
Youll also have to let your insurance company know, but they arent allowed to charge you any more because of your condition. If you have an accident you havent declared a health condition, your insurance might not cover you.
Our information guide In the Driving Seat has more information about driving with health conditions and making adaptations to your car.
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How The Ssa Determines Disability With Arthritis
In the case of arthritis, you must receive medical treatment for at least three months before the SSA will make a determination regarding the extent and severity of your condition and whether or not it qualifies you for Social Security Disability benefits.
No matter where you develop arthritis, whether in your hands, feet, knees or back, if you have medical evidence to support your claim, you may be eligible for disability benefits. You will also need to meet financial requirements to qualify for disability benefits.
Follow the steps below to find out if you qualify for Social Security disability benefits due to your arthritis.
Need Help Filing A Disability Claim
Dayes Law Firm is here to help. We know how difficult it may be to obtain initial approval for benefits, which is why we are also prepared to proceed with an appeal on your behalf if it is necessary. A consultation is 100 percent free and confidential with no obligation to have us represent you.
If you have a valid claim and decide to move forward, there are no upfront fees for our services. We only get paid at the end of the claims or appeals process if we help you obtain disability benefits.
Talk to a lawyer today:
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Work With Keefe Law This Time Around
If you have been denied disability, even though your arthritis physically prevents you from being able to work, contact our office. One click can secure the representation you need to navigate the process and get your voice heard. John Keefe has acquired the skills and knowledge to make your appeal work for you with over 20 years of experience under his belt. Schedule your FREE consultation today to begin taking advantage of his hard work.
What Medical Conditions Qualify For Cpp Disability
Any medical condition can qualify for CPP disability if it prevents you from doing gainful employment. You must also prove that your disability is permanent.
If you suffer from a terminal illness, then CPP disability will fast-track your application.
Following is the offical requirement for CPP disability benefits. Your medical condition must cause a level of disaiblity to meet the following requirement:
Section 42. When a person is deemed disabled For the purposes of this Act,
a person shall be considered to be disabled only if he is determined in the prescribed manner to have a severe and prlonged mental or physical disability, and for the purposes of this paragraph,
a disability is severe only if by reason thereof the person in respect of whom the determination is made is incapable of regularly pursing any substantially gainful employment, and
a disability is prolonged only if it is determined in the prescribed manner that the disability is likely to be long continued and of indefinite duration or is likely to result in death
In common terms, you can only qualify for CPP disability if your medical condition causes permanent disablity that prevents you from regularly doing any employment.
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Determining If You Can Work
When the SSA receives your application, they first determine whether you’re currently working and how much youre earning from your work. If you are earning $1,220 per month or more as stated in the 2019 COLA, you cant qualify for benefits because the SSA will determine that youre able to perform substantial gainful activity.
Listing 116 Lumbar Stenosis Resulting In Compromise Of The Cauda Equina
To qualify for disability because of lumbar spinal stenosis under Listing 1.16, you must demonstrate that you suffer from all of the following:
- non-radiating pain, non-radiating sensory loss, or pain or cramping in one or both legs
- neurological signs of muscle weakness and either sensory changes or decreased deep tendon reflexes in one of both legs
- X-rays or MRIs showing that the cauda equina is compressed, and
- an inability to use your hands for work because:
- you need an assistive device for walking that requires both hands
- you need a device that requires use of one hand, but you’re unable to use the other hand for work-related tasks, or
- you aren’t able to use either hand for work-related tasks.
The last requirement rules out all those who are living with great pain but who are able to walk and get places without assistance.
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S To Take In Order To Qualify
To determine whether a person qualifies for Social Security Disability because of arthritis, the SSA uses the following steps:
Financial Requirements
The SSA first determines whether you are currently working. If you are gainfully employed , you will be disqualified for Social Security Disability based on your demonstrated ability to perform substantial gainful activity.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance , you will need to have enough work credits. These are earned by working and paying Social Security taxes. Typically, if you have worked five of the last ten years, you will have enough work credits. Depending on your age, there are a specific number of credits you must have to qualify for SSDI.
If you do not have enough work credits, but your income and assets are limited, you may be eligible for Supplement Security Income . SSI is meant for those of extreme financial need, so you must have less than $2,000 in assets . SSI is based on household income, so your spouses income will be considered when the SSA is determining if you are financially eligible.
Medical Requirements For Disability Benefits With Arthritis
The SSA determines whether your arthritis is severe enough to hinder you from performing physical activities commonly required for working. These activities may include such things as:
- sitting or standing
- kneeling or walking
- lifting and use of fine motor skills
What Types Of Knee Problems Might Qualify For A Disability Award
The knee is a major weight-bearing joint, meaning that it carries the majority of the weight on your body. With many muscles and ligaments, the knee is a rather complicated joint. Because the knee is weight-bearing joint, obesity has a significant adverse impact on the knees.
A wide range of conditions can cause knee pain. Many knee injuries happen as a result of accidents, such as those sustained in sports or falls. Other knee conditions are more chronic and are caused by diseases such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or gout. Some individuals who have experienced trauma, such as a car accident, can suffer from post-traumatic arthritis.
To be considered for a disability award, your condition must last or be expected to continue for at least one year. As a general rule, this is not the case for knee conditions. Most knee conditions are easily managed through surgery, physical therapy, or pain medication. In fact, knee replacement surgery is one of the most successful operations available. 9 out of 10 individuals report immediate relief from pain after having a knee replacement.
However, there are some instances where a knee condition is chronic and debilitating. For example, those who have rheumatoid arthritis can often expect knee pain to continue, as well as have other difficulties from this systemic disease.
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The Next Steps To Take
Statistically, your best chance of having a Social Security Disability case approved because of arthritis comes during your hearing before an Administrative Law Judge.
During this hearing, you will be allowed to have representation, and will also be allowed to make your case in person regarding why your arthritic condition keeps you from being able to work. You will also be allowed to bring witnesses who can testify on your behalf regarding the effects your condition has had on your ability to work.
Is Rheumatoid Arthritis A Disability In Uk
Rheumatoid arthritis is not listed as a medical condition that entitles a person to free prescriptions in England. But you may be able to get your medicine for free if your condition falls under the category of a continuing physical disability which means the person cannot go out without the help of another person.
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Chances Of Getting Disability Benefits For Arthritis
According to the federal government, 24% of the adult population of the U.S. have arthritis. More people claim it as the reason why they cannot work than any other cause of disability.
If you have been diagnosed with arthritis that is severe enough to prevent you from working, you may qualify for Social Security disability. An arthritis lawyer or disability advocate at London Disability can help you determine if your medical condition is severe enough to meet the criteria used by the Social Security Administration to determine if you have a disability that qualifies for SSD benefit.
What Types Of Hip Problems Might Qualify For A Disability Award
The majority of hip disorders are relatively minor, and individuals who are affected by them typically face a quick recovery. While they may present discomfort, the Social Security Administration considers most hip disorders temporary or manageable. For example, individuals who have chronic pain due to osteoarthritis of the hip can often manage the pain through physical therapy and pain medication.
However, in some instances, the hip condition deteriorates, and the discomfort becomes so severe that the person affected loses the ability to function normally. Individuals with a chronic hip condition may face pain, limping, inability to bear weight, referred pain to other joints such as the knee, and reduced range of motion. Some hip conditions that may cause long-term problems include osteoarthritis of the hip, rheumatoid arthritis, and some hip fractures.
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Was Your Va Claim Denied
The accredited attorneys and advocates at Chisholm Chisholm & Kilpatrick LTD have decades of experience successfully representing disabled veterans and their families before the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims, and the Federal Circuit. We may be able to help if your claim was denied. Contact us today at 800-544-9144.
What Can Be Done For Arthritis In The Spine
Many things can be done to help ease the pain and discomfort of arthritis in the spine. Here are some suggestions:Stay active. Exercise can help to keep the joints flexible and strong.Use heat or cold therapy. This can help to relieve pain and inflammation.Try over-the-counter pain relievers. These can help to reduce pain and swelling.Talk to your doctor about prescription medications. There are many options available that can help to improve symptoms.Have regular checkups with your doctor. This will help monitor the condition and ensure that it is not getting worse.Consider other methods of treatment, such as acupuncture or physical therapy. These can help to ease pain and improve the overall quality of life.If you have arthritis in the spine, it is essential to take steps to manage your condition. Talk to your doctor about options that are right for you, and remember that there is always support available if needed. You can do many things at home to help decrease your symptoms and improve your overall quality of life.
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Arthritis In The Lower Back
The most prevalent type of spine arthritis is osteoarthritis . It mainly affects the lower back and develops over time as a result of normal wear and tear. Inflammation and pain result from the gradual breakdown of cartilage between the joints. The pain is usually more noticeable when you bend or twist your back because it is caused by mechanical injury.
Definition Of Disability For Inflammatory Arthritis
Under most LTD policies, an individual is considered disabled if he or she is: unable to perform the material duties of his or her own occupation for the first two years of the policy and unable to perform the duties of just about any occupation after the first two years of the policy. The definition of disability is specific to each individual policy, so you must review your own LTD policy to determine how the term disability or totally disabled is defined for you.
Your provider will then determine whether your inflammatory arthritis or osteoarthritis is severe enough to keep you from performing activities commonly required for working. These activities include:
- Sitting or standing
Based on your limitations, you may be deemed capable of heavy, medium, light, or sedentary work.
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Medical Evidence About Your Psoriatic Arthritis
- The name and contact information for your dermatologist, rheumatologist, and other medical providers who can discuss your condition
- A complete list of medications, both past and present, as well as results for medical tests such as X-rays that can show joint damage, dysfunction of a joint or lower back, and affected joints
- A description of how psoriatic arthritis impacts your ability to do activities like shopping, cooking, cleaning, and other tasks of daily living
Members of the MyPsoriasisTeam shared suggestions regarding gathering medical evidence. Make sure your health providers are keeping good documentation of your treatment and how it affects you, one member advised.
Another MyPsoriasisTeam member found that X-rays alone were insufficient to prove a disability: The tests dont show much so Ive got to argue about their tests and misinterpreting the results.
What If My Arthritis Doesnt Meet Any Of The Listings
You can still be approved for disability even if your arthritis doesnt meet an official SSA impairment listing, though it will be more difficult. If the SSA decides that your arthritis doesnt meet a listing, the agency must decide whether youre able to do your past work, or any other work, despite the symptoms of your arthritis.
The SSA will consider your age, education, past work experience, and impact of your arthritis symptoms in deciding whether you can be expected to work. For this reason, its easier for older and less educated applicants to win a claim for disability.
To inform the SSA about how your arthritis impacts your life and your ability to work, you should ask your doctor to fill out a Residual Functional Capacity form. An RFC will discuss how your ability to perform work-related activities like sitting, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, feeling, and lifting is limited as a result of your arthritis. For example, if your arthritis has caused malformation, swelling, and pain in your fingers and wrists, your RFC should explain that you are unable to type, use a pen, or perform other work that requires the use of your hands and fingers. This limitation alone would prevent you from doing most work.
If the SSA determines that, in light of these restrictions from your arthritis, there is no work you can perform, your claim will be approved.
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