When suffering from inflammatory arthritis, people in Los Angeles might find themselves facing an inability to work. Social Security disability benefits for injury are available for those who are suffering from this issue. Before applying, however, it is key to know what the definition and criteria are to be approved. There are numerous problems that can result from inflammatory arthritis. If the issue affects the peripheral joints, it can lead to an inability to ambulate or make fine and gross movements. The claimant might suffer from swelling, tenderness and joint pain. Other joints might be affected.
Inflammatory arthritis can also affect the axial spine and can be linked to Reiter’s syndrome, psoriatic arthritis, Whipple’s disease, inflammatory bowel disease and others. If it involves the peripheral joints, it can be linked to rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, gout, Lyme disease and IBD.
To receive benefits under category A, it must be documented and have persistent inflammation and deformity of one of the major peripheral weight-bearing joints that prevents ambulation or leads to the inability to perform fine and gross movements. In lieu of that, under category B there must be inflammation or deformity of one or more of the major peripheral joints with an involvement of two or more body systems or organs with a moderate severity. There must also be at least two indicators of this including severe fatigue, fever, general malaise or unintended weight loss.
For category C, there must be ankylosis — also known as fixation — of the cervical spine or dorsolumbar area. This must be proven by appropriate medical imaging such as MRI and there must be a measurement when physically examined that the flexion is 45 degrees or 30 degrees or more from zero degrees. In category D, there must be continued manifestations of inflammatory arthritis with the above-listed symptoms and one of the following — a limitation in ability to perform daily activities, a limitation is social functioning or a limitation in completing tasks because of an inability to concentrate, persist or pace.
As long as A, B, C or D are met, then it is possible to meet the benefits’ requirements to meet the requirements for qualifying SSD benefits for injury with inflammatory arthritis. Of course, this is simply a broad overview of how a prospective claimant can be approved for benefits. Speaking to a legal professional can provide more insight and assistance in pursuing a claim.
Source: Social Security Administration, “14.09 Inflammatory arthritis,” accessed on Aug. 4, 2015
