OSTEOARTHRITUS (OA)
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis and diagnosed cases have been increasing. It is considered a degenerative joint disease and causes pain in the joints and muscles which can severely limit mobility. If you are unable to sit or stand for long periods or to twist, lift or walk unassisted then you may qualify for Social Security disability as this could preclude you from holding down a job.

You should see and be under the care of a Rheumatologist if you have been diagnosed with OA. While minor cases can be handled by your Primary Care Physician (PCP) the more severe cases and those most likely to be eligible for Social Security disability will need to be treated by a Rheumatologist. Unrelenting pain, worsening symptoms and the feeling that you cannot perform routine duties may indicate a more severe situation. It is not unusual for a patient to also have an Orthopedic surgeon as part of your medical team for joint replacement or other arthritis-related surgeries.

Lower extremity issues (hip, knees or ankle)
  • You must be able to sustain a reasonable walking pace for a sufficient distance without the help of a walker, two crutches or two canes. The inability to walk a block at a reasonable pace on rough or uneven surfaces, carry out routine activities like shopping or household chores, or not being able to climb a few steps at a reasonable pace even using a hand rail could constitute your OA as more severe.
Upper extremity issues (wrist, hand, elbow or shoulder)
  • The extreme loss of function of at least two upper extremities that interferes significantly with your ability to complete normal activities like pushing, pulling, grasping, reaching or fingering could also indicate a more severe condition.
If you are under 50 years old, Social Security will look at your ability to be retrained to do a job with your disability. Over the age of 50, Social Security looks back at any job you have performed the previous 15 years to determine if you can do one of these with this ailment.

Please call us or complete the contact form if you have any questions or wish to apply for Social Security Disability
For more information, please call:
(585) 663-6333
We are happy to answer your questions or to talk to you about your best course of action.

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