I have a problem with hip, and the MRI indicated rheumatoid arthritis in hip area. Does that apply to disability claim if it affects performance periodically due to aching and immobility?

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that causes chronic inflammation of the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis can affect multiple organs of the body, rheumatoid arthritis is referred to as a systemic illness and is sometimes called rheumatoid disease. Rheumatoid arthritis is generally a progressive illness that has the potential to cause joint destruction and functional disability.

If you have Rheumatoid arthritis it may be possible to qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance either by “meeting a listing”, which means your condition equals or matches a listing identified on the SSA Listing of Impairments (a list the SSA maintains of all the mental and physical health conditions it considers automatically disabling) or you may be able to prove through a medical vocational allowance that you are unable to work.

• Meeting a Listing for Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)

Listing 1.02 specifically lists the criteria needed for a condition to meet or equal the rheumatoid arthritis or other inflammatory arthritis disability listing. Listing 1.02 Active rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory arthritis states that an individual must meet or equal both part A and B of the listing.

So how do you meet Part A of the SSA listing? You will meet Listing 1.02A if you have major joint dysfunction and involvement of one major peripheral weight-bearing joints including your hips, knees, or ankles. Joint dysfunction should also limit your ability to ambulate effectively.

What will the SSA consider?

Whether you can walk without a walker?
Can you walk up to a block at a steady pace or on uneven surfaces?
Can you use public transportation?
Can you perform routine tasks such as banking and grocery shopping?
Can you climb stairs at a reasonble pace?