Inflammatory arthritis is a painful and debilitating condition that afflicts a large number of people in Tennessee and around the country. If you have been diagnosed with this disorder, and if the pain and stiffness are so severe they prevent you from working, you may be eligible for Social Security disability benefits.
The Social Security Administration lists a large number of illnesses and provides diagnostic criteria for each in those provisions of the federal regulations that make up its Bluebook. Inflammatory arthritis is classified as an immune system disorder along with immune deficiency disorders, systemic vasculitis, undifferentiated and mixed connective tissues disease, systemic sclerosis (scleroderma), HIV infection, polymyositis, Sjögren’s syndrome and dermatomyositis.
Inflammatory arthritis can qualify for SSD benefits if you suffer from persistent deformity or inflammation in one or more of the large joints that carry the weight of your body, and the condition prevents you from being able to move around effectively. You can also qualify if the condition affects a major peripheral joint and prevents you from being able to carry out certain fine or gross motor tasks.
Social Security disability benefits for illness cover a wide range of disorders and ailments. Applying for benefits requires a great deal of documentation and careful attention to detail in the application process.
The information in this post is general information only and should not be taken as legal advice for your specific situation. If you believe you are disabled by inflammatory arthritis, consulting an attorney who practices in the area of SSD benefits could be the first step in qualifying for the benefits you need.
Source: Social Security Administration, “Disability Evaluation Under Social Security– 14.00 Immune System Disorders – Adult,” accessed Dec. 29, 2014