Some debilitating conditions do not show symptoms all the time. Some people may feel immense pain for days or weeks because of a chronic condition and then have several days or weeks without a flare-up. Unfortunately, many people with conditions like psoriatic arthritis cannot predict when they will experience these stretches of relief and when the pain will make it difficult for them to perform daily activities. As a result, they may wonder whether their condition could qualify them for Social Security Disability benefits.
Psoriatic arthritis can make it difficult for individuals to hold down a full-time job, or even a part-time position, because the pain of their condition limits their mobility. In fact, one-third of people with psoriatic arthritis indicated that the condition negatively affected their ability to work. Even though a person may be unable to work, it does not mean that he or she automatically qualifies for Social Security benefits.
The Social Security Administration closely scrutinizes every SSDI application, and a significant determining factor in whether to approve an application is the severity of the condition. If psoriatic arthritis affects any of the following bodily systems in addition to causing joint inflammation, there may be a higher chance of approval:
- Mental abilities
- Musculoskeletal system
- Renal system
- Pulmonary system
- Immune system
- Hematological system
- Cardiovascular system
When trying to obtain Social Security Disability benefits, having evidence of how the condition affects the ability to work and life in general can help bolster an application. Medical records, personal testimonies and more can be important details for this type of application. The process is not always easy, and it can be difficult to know the exact steps to take to apply. Fortunately, applicants hoping to obtain benefits for their psoriatic arthritis can obtain help from legal professionals.
