Yes, arthritis can qualify as a disability under Social Security’s rules. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses its Blue Book, a collection of medical listings and their requirements, to evaluate conditions including arthritis.
Two sections are particularly relevant.
Section 1.00: Musculoskeletal Disorders covers conditions affecting the spine and limbs. Relevant criteria include:
- Listing 1.15, for spinal disorders involving compromise of a nerve root
- Listing 1.18, for abnormalities of major joints.
These may apply to osteoarthritis, including spinal osteoarthritis and facet arthritis.
Section 14.00: Immune System Disorders includes Listing 14.09, which addresses inflammatory arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis.
An arthritis diagnosis alone does not establish eligibility for disability benefits. Your condition must prevent Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA). Your condition also must have lasted (or be expected to last) at least 12 consecutive months. You must also satisfy the other requirements of the benefit program you apply for.
What Common Types of Arthritis Can Qualify for Disability?
The following types of arthritis may be evaluated under the Blue Book guidelines.
Osteoarthritis
For major joints, Listing 1.18 requires chronic joint pain or stiffness; abnormal movement, instability, or immobility; an anatomical abnormality; and specific functional limitations lasting or expected to last at least 12 consecutive months. Spinal arthritis may fall under Listing 1.15 when it compromises a nerve root and meets the listing’s additional requirements.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Listing 14.09 provides several ways to establish the required severity. These include persistent joint inflammation or deformity with specified functional limitations, or joint involvement combined with effects on other body systems and additional symptoms. Another route requires repeated manifestations of inflammatory arthritis, at least two specified symptoms or signs, such as severe fatigue or fever, and a marked limitation in daily activities, social functioning, or timely task completion. Each route has specific requirements.
Psoriatic Arthritis
Psoriatic arthritis is an inflammatory form of arthritis associated with psoriasis. It can affect joints and the spine, restricting movement and making tasks such as reaching, walking, or handling objects difficult.
Depending on its effects, it may be evaluated under the peripheral-joint or spinal provisions of Listing 14.09. Medical evidence must document the findings and functional limitations required by the applicable provision.
Ankylosing Spondylitis
Ankylosing spondylitis is an inflammatory arthritis that primarily affects the spine. Pain and stiffness may limit bending, turning, or remaining in one position.
Listing 14.09 includes specific criteria for spinal fixation, with some provisions also requiring involvement of other body systems. Limitations that do not satisfy those criteria can still be considered when your work capacity is evaluated.
Gout
Gout may be evaluated under Listing 14.09 for inflammatory arthritis. SSA specifically includes gout among the crystal deposition disorders covered by these guidelines. To meet the listing, medical evidence must establish the required severity and functional limitations; a gout diagnosis alone is not enough.
What If Your Arthritis Doesn’t Meet the Blue Book Criteria?
You may still qualify for disability benefits if your arthritis does not meet or medically equal a Blue Book listing. Social Security will evaluate you to find out whether your condition prevents you from performing your past work or adjusting to other work. This calculation will also consider your education level, age, and resume.
Your disability claim must show why your limitations prevent those work options.
What Evidence Supports an Arthritis Disability Claim?
As mentioned earlier, evidence must support the claim that your arthritis prevents you from performing Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA). Medical evidence that can be used to substantiate your claim includes, but is not limited to, the following:
- Detailed clinical history and exam findings that document the extent and severity of your condition.
- A clinician’s assessment of work-related limitations, including how long you can stand or walk, how effectively you can grip and handle objects, and how often your symptoms require rest breaks.
- Imaging reports (e.g., X-rays or CT scans) showing joint damage, inflammation, or other relevant abnormalities.
- Laboratory test results indicating inflammation or specific markers related to arthritis.
- Treatment records, including medications prescribed, doses, responses to treatment, and any side effects experienced.
- Physical therapy or rehabilitation records demonstrating the extent of mobility and functional limitations.
- Specialist evaluations from rheumatologists or other relevant healthcare professionals providing expert opinions on the condition.
- Operative reports if surgery was performed in relation to the condition.
- Documentation of any comorbid conditions that compound the disability, such as depression or cardiovascular disease.
How Kelly Disability Law Can Help
Applying for disability with arthritis requires connecting your medical evidence to Social Security’s rules.
Kelly Disability Law helps people with arthritis evaluate their options and navigate the disability claims process. We can review your situation, explain the applicable requirements, and help present how your condition affects your ability to work.
Learn more about our assistance with arthritis disability claims, or reach out to us for a free consultation.
