When evaluating a claim for Social Security disability, it’s not a specific condition that makes more of a difference in whether a claim is successful, but how that condition impacts an applicant’s ability to work.
It is true that certain conditions, mainly life-threatening conditions, are supposed to automatically qualify you for either Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits, but most claims are not made up of people who have life-threatening conditions.
A condition that is NOT an automatic qualifier for Social Security disability benefits is Osteoarthritis, but there are claimants who’ve been awarded benefits who have this condition.
This type of arthritis is the most common with an estimated 27 million Americans age 25 and older diagnosed. As the population ages, the number of people diagnosed with osteoarthritis will only grow as an estimated 67 million people are projected to be diagnosed by 2030.
As is the case of any injury, illness or disability, the severity of the condition and how it impacts an individual’s ability to do work, makes all the difference.
Osteoarthritis is often called “wear and tear” arthritis. It occurs when the protective cartilage on the ends of bones wears down over time. The condition can damage any joint in your body. Symptoms include pain, tenderness, stiffness, joint locking and sometimes a build-up of fluid.
If a condition such as Osteoarthritis limits your ability to do past work, or any type of work, you may be eligible for Social Security disability. Social Security will look into past jobs you performed and determine if you can still do a similar type of job. It the answer is no, Social Security may look at whether you can do any type of work at a Substantial Gainful Activity (earn at least $1,040 per month gross) level.
Limitations standing, walking, sitting, lifting and other types of movements are examined to determine whether you meet Social Security disability rules.
For more information about how Social Security determines whether someone with Osteoarthritis is disabled click here.
