Inflammatory arthritis is a disability often causing inflammation – and distinct pain, in joints. It frequently is associated with swelling and tenderness. It is associated with disorders such as Rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren’s syndrome, Psoriatic arthritis, gout and psuedo-gout, lyme disease, and inflammatory bowel syndrome. The pain and other symptoms may result in difficulty with many forms of movement, and may effect one’s ability to work.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) evaluates inflammatory arthritis under listing 14.09 of the Impairment Listing Manual. The regulation references persistent inflammation or persistent deformity of …weight-bearing joints resulting in the inability to ambulate effectively or … the inability to perform fine and gross movements effectively or inflammation or deformity in one or more major peripheral joints with involvement of two or more organs/body systems with one of the organs/body systems involved at least to a moderate level of severity; and at least two of the constitutional symptoms or signs (severe fatigue, fever, malaise, or involuntary weight loss) or … ankylosing spondylitis or other spondyloarthropathies, or … repeated manifestations of inflammatory arthritis, with at least two of the constitutional symptoms or signs (severe fatigue, fever, malaise, or involuntary weight loss) and one of the following at the marked level: Limitation of activities of daily living, limitation in maintaining social functioning, limitation in completing tasks in a timely manner due to deficiencies in concentration, persistence, or pace. You can view that listing at: https://www.ssa.gov/disability/professionals/bluebook/14.00-Immune-Adult.htm#14_09
There are severity requirements outlined in this listing, but even if not met, it is still possible that you may be entitled to disability benefits dependent upon your ability to function and maintain work skills.
As with most all claims, it is vitally important to get appropriate medical treatment. Without these medical records, your case is typically much less convincing. While medical services and insurance is not always available, urgent situations should result in hospital ER treatment in order to show the reality of your symptoms.
