Osteoarthritis is a potentially debilitating disease that affects the joints, cartilage and bones in the body. It can occur in many areas, but it is most commonly found in the hips, thumbs and knees. According to the National Institutes of Health, it is the most common joint disorder found in patients within the United States, but the symptoms can make work difficult for many sufferers.
If you have been diagnosed with osteoarthritis, you should consider whether continuing to work is the right choice for your health. It may become increasingly difficult, but there are several options that you should be aware of.
Ability to work may be affected
People with osteoarthritis commonly find themselves unable to work regularly because of the pain caused by their condition. This is especially true of jobs that involve repetitious work, such as typing, or physically arduous tasks, such as lifting heavy items. With a lessened ability to work, your income may be at risk, too.
Daily tasks may be difficult
In addition to the challenges that many osteoarthritis patients face at work, it could become difficult to carry out daily tasks that were previously simple. Bending over to tie shoes or getting out of bed in the morning can be serious sources of pain for those whose joints are plagued by osteoarthritis. Even with medication, these tasks are likely to become challenging over time.
There are benefits available
If the above challenges are some you have faced as a result of osteoarthritis, you should know that there are benefits available. You may consider applying for disability through SSDI. When you do so, enlisting help from a legal representative can make the process easier and less stressful. When you gain SSDI benefits, you will no longer need to worry about income insecurity or inadequate health care because of your ailment.