Social Security Disability for Arthritis

Arthritis and Disability Benefits

Some people may be surprised to learn that there are more than 100 different types of arthritis. This disease affects the joints of people of any age, even children, causing pain, stiffness, discomfort, and swelling.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that between the years 2003-2005, an estimated 46 million adults in the United States had arthritis. That number is expected to jump to 67 million by 2030.

Types of Arthritis

• Osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease: This is the most common form of arthritis that occurs due to normal deterioration of joint cartilage. The areas most affected by osteoarthritis include the hips, knees, spine and fingers. It is usually seen in older adults.
• Rheumatoid: This is an autoimmune disease that is caused by the immune system which leads to painful inflammation of the joints. This disease will damage the joints and can lead to permanent disability.
• Gout: Extremely painful deposits of naturally-occurring uric acid that attaches to the joints. The big toe is the most common area for this to occur, although it can also be found in the wrist, elbow, ankle, foot, knee, hand and wrist.
• Juvenile: Any type of arthritis that occurs in children. Rheumatoid is the most common form.
• Fibromyalgia: Pain in the soft tissues including the tendons, muscles and ligaments that does not include inflammation. This is not technically a joint disease but can create widespread pain.
• Psoriatic: This form of arthritis is connected to the skin condition psoriasis and can affect any joint in the body.

Symptoms of Arthritis

Some of the symptoms of arthritis can be gradual. As a result, many people overlook the symptoms and chalk them up to an injury or stress.

Symptoms of arthritis can include:

• Joint pain
• Joint stiffness
• Joint tenderness
• Joint inflammation
• Joint deformity
• Limited range of motion
• Warmth sensations
• Loss of flexibility
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue or weakness
• Fever
• Depression
• Sleep disorders

Treatment Options for Arthritis

Depending on the nature of the arthritis, those suffering from the disease may find comfort in a variety of treatment options including:

• Exercise
• Weight control
• Medications
• Surgery
• Physical therapy

If you are struggling with the effects of arthritis, you may be entitled to collect Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits to help ease some of the financial burdens this disease can create.

Please contact our experienced Virginia Social Security Disability attorneys at Kalfus & Nachman PC today by calling (855) 880-8163 to discuss your options.