Arthritis as a Leading Cause of Disability
Arthritis causes more than just pain; it is a leading cause of disability. A disability is a condition that restricts your typical movements, senses, or activities. In severe cases, arthritis may prevent you from performing daily tasks or even maintaining employment.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 50 million people in the United States have arthritis, accounting for 24% of the population.
When left untreated, arthritis can be debilitating. It limits the activities of nearly 10% of U.S. adults. The Disability Benefits Center reports that arthritis is among the top 10 conditions that commonly qualify for disability benefits.
If you have arthritis, it’s crucial to understand how your condition can progress and impact your daily life. Awareness can motivate you to take preventive action before your condition worsens.
Types of Arthritis
There are two main types of arthritis: rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and osteoarthritis (OA). RA is an autoimmune condition where your immune system attacks the lining of your joints. Over time, RA can damage your joint cartilage and bones. OA, on the other hand, occurs when the cartilage in your joints wears down due to wear and tear.
There are more than 100 different forms of arthritis. All of them can cause pain and inflammation.
How Can Arthritis Cause Disability?
Arthritis can lead to disability and various other mental and physical health issues.
The extent of your disability depends on the specific activities you find challenging. For instance, you might struggle with:
- Walking up stairs
- Walking a quarter mile
- Standing or sitting for two hours
- Grasping small objects with your hands
- Lifting 10 pounds or more
- Holding your arms up
You may also suspect an arthritis-related disability if your condition interferes with your work. Arthritis can make physically demanding jobs difficult and even make office work more challenging.
According to the CDC, 1 in 10 adults is limited in their ability to work due to arthritis, although the actual number may be higher.
What Symptoms Can Cause Disability?
Arthritis can lead to disability in several ways:
Pain and Immobility
Pain, a prominent symptom of arthritis, occurs when the cartilage in your joints breaks down and your bones rub against each other. It can also result from swelling and inflammation. Arthritis-related pain can occur in any joint in your body, including your:
- Shoulders
- Elbows
- Wrists
- Finger knuckles
- Hips
- Knees
- Ankles
- Toe joints
- Spine
This pain can limit your range of motion and reduce your overall mobility. Lack of mobility is a common feature of physical disability. Additionally, being overweight increases your likelihood of experiencing arthritis-related pain and mobility problems.
Fatigue
In addition to pain, individuals with arthritis may experience chronic fatigue. When severe, this fatigue can be disabling.
Anyone living with arthritis and experiencing severe fatigue should consult a doctor to rule out other conditions with similar manifestations, such as:
- Anemia
- Low thyroid function
- Virus-related conditions like long COVID
Recent studies indicate that some people may develop rheumatic symptoms following COVID-19, symptoms they didn’t have before. Additionally, those already living with arthritis might see their symptoms worsen after contracting COVID-19.
Skin and Organs
Joint pain is not the only symptom associated with arthritic conditions. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can cause skin rashes and organ problems. Gout can lead to painful inflammation of the skin around the joints. Lupus can cause a range of debilitating symptoms, including:
- Excessive fatigue
- Breathing difficulties
- Fever
- Kidney damage
These symptoms can also complicate daily tasks and, in some cases, make you seriously ill.
Importance of Treatment
To lower your risk of disability, it’s crucial to treat your arthritis early. Your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes, medications, surgery, or other treatments. In many cases, regular exercise can be beneficial.
With your doctor’s consent, incorporate low-impact workouts into your routine. Consider activities such as:
- Walking
- Riding a stationary bike
- Water aerobics
- Tai chi
- Strength training with light weights
Costs and Economic Consequences
A disabling health condition can quickly deplete your finances. It can reduce your ability to earn a living and be costly to treat and manage.
According to the CDC, the annual economic burden of arthritis, including medical expenses and lost wages, amounts to approximately $303.5 billion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here you’ll find answers to some common questions about arthritis and disability.
What Are Government Benefits Programs for Disability?
You may be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) if you qualify. Additionally, you might qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) based on your specific needs. Applications for both programs can be submitted online. You may also qualify for disability insurance through Medicare.
Can Private Insurance Pay for Arthritis Disability?
If you’re unable to work and your employer offers a private insurance plan, you might qualify for disability payments. However, not everyone has access to this option. Only about one-third of employees in the private sector have access to disability income-protection coverage.
How to Qualify for Disability If You Have Arthritis?
According to the Disability Benefits Center, to qualify for disability benefits, you must demonstrate that you can’t work and that your symptoms are expected to last for at least a year. Medical and financial documentation will be required for approval. Private insurance companies may have additional requirements.