ERISA & Social Security Disability: Southern California Lawyers
Disability Benefits for DEGENERATIVE JOINT DISEASE (DJD)
Degenerative joint disease (another name for osteoarthritis) is a disease that damages the slippery tissue that covers the ends of bones in a joint. This allows bones to rub together. The rubbing causes pain, swelling, and loss of motion of the joint. Over time, the joint may lose its normal shape.
The condition can cause bone spurs to grow on the edges of the joint. Bits of bone or cartilage can break off and float inside the joint space, which causes more pain and damage.
Unlike some other forms of arthritis, DJD affects only joints and not internal organs. It is the most common type of arthritis.
WHAT ARE SYMPTOMS OF DJD?
DJD can occur in any joint. It occurs most often in the hands, knees, hips, and spine. Warning signs are:
Reference: https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/osteoarthritis
ESSENTIAL MEDICAL DOCUMENTATION OF DJD
How does your condition affect you? Be specific to articulate to your physician details of your physical limitations and how they impact you on a daily basis with regard to your daily living activities, your ability to stand/walk, lift/carry, and even sit for extended periods of time and need for breaks or rest from pain or fatigue. These are important factors and details regarding your functional capacity and important in evaluating whether you can perform your work or any work.
