Orthopedic conditions and SSD

On Behalf of | Dec 23, 2020 | Social Security Disability Insurance |

Social Security benefits in California provide income for people who are no longer able to do their job because of a disability. Some of these conditions include orthopedic issues that prevent the person from working as they did previously. However, recipients must meet certain requirements to qualify for benefits.

Basics of orthopedic conditions

An orthopedic condition is a type of injury or disease that affects the musculoskeletal system, or connective tissues such as tendons, ligaments and bones. These conditions commonly occur from vehicle accidents, on-the-job injuries or falls. Examples of orthopedic conditions include bursitis, dislocation, fibromyalgia, fractures, arthritis and spinal disorders.

Some orthopedic conditions respond well to non-surgical treatment and therapy. However, they can make mobility difficult for life, and severe cases may need surgery.

Qualifying for SSD

The Social Security Administration discusses the orthopedic injuries evaluation process under section 1.00 of the Blue Book, which lists all the conditions that qualify for SSD. While a claimant can use a hard copy of the Blue Book, digital copies receive more instant updates.

The disabled joints should be weight-bearing joints, such as hips, or a major peripheral joint. Potential recipients must demonstrate that they have received treatment that has failed. In most cases, the SSA accepts medical imaging, such MRIs and CAT scans, as proof of the condition.

The claimant must show that they have not been able to work for 12 consecutive months, and they need to have worked in a job that had Social Security benefits. They cannot earn more than $1,260 in that time period, but trial periods have no income limits.

Social Security disability claims have to be accurate so that they won’t get denied, but chances of denial are highly likely regardless of errors. If a claimant feels that they have been unfairly rejected, they may seek legal assistance to pursue an appeal, which has a higher chance of being accepted.

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