Osteoarthritis is one of the most common forms of arthritis and over 27 million Americans suffer from this disease.
Symptoms
Osteoarthritis symptoms can include:
Sore and stiff joints, particularly the hips, knees and low back;
Stiffness after resting that goes away after movement; and
Pain that’s worse after activity toward the end of the day.
It’s not uncommon for osteoarthritis to affect the neck, small finger joints, including the base of the thumb, ankle and even the big toe. The pain can be excruciating and limit your ability to perform your occupation.
Your claim for disability benefits
Long term disability carriers don’t always make it easy for those who have osteoarthritis to get the disability benefits they deserve. It’s crucial that your medical records document your symptoms, including stiffness, swelling, loss of range of motion, and difficulty with the use of the affected area of your body. Many long term disability carrier claims can be lost by inadequate documentation.
What you can do to win your long term disability claim for osteoarthritis
Before you file a claim for long term disability benefits it’s crucial that you review your medical records and ensure that your physician has documented your complaints, symptoms, exam findings and laboratory or x-ray findings that document your osteoarthritis. Just as important is that your physician document how your symptoms limit your ability to perform the material and substantial duties of your own occupation. You should be sure that your physician supports your claim before you apply for apply for long term disability benefits.
You can learn more about your rights to long term disability benefits as a result of osteoarthritis by contacting osteoarthritis attorney, Nancy Cavey, who can help you get the disability benefits you deserve today!
