Arthritis is a well-known, relatively common medical condition that affects millions of Americans. The way that this type of disease affects an individual depends on many factors, including severity of the case and other underlying health issues, but it is quite possible that you could be unable to work due to this type of medical condition.
If you are not able to earn a living because of a physical condition, you may be able to secure disability benefits, even if your condition is unseen and internal. A severe case of arthritis could leave you genuinely and severely disabled, and you may find it beneficial to secure legal help in your quest to secure the Social Security disability benefits to which you have a rightful claim.
What you may not know about arthritis
Arthritis is a condition that many people misunderstand. Because it is unseen, it may not seem as serious to others, but in reality, it can be quite debilitating and painful. The following are some facts about arthritis that you may not already know:
- Over 50 million adults have a doctor-diagnosed case of arthritis, and medical researchers expect that number to grow in the coming years.
- Arthritis is the leading cause of disability in the country.
- Almost two-thirds of people with arthritis are working age individuals.
- More people miss work due to complications from arthritis than with any other type of medical condition.
- Arthritis is one of the costliest medical conditions to treat and manage.
- One-third of working age adults with this condition are either unable to work or are limited in their work abilities.
The impact of arthritis is long-reaching and can continue to affect your life in different ways, even long after the initial diagnosis. It is a serious medical condition, and you may have a rightful claim to disability benefits if it keeps you from gainful employment.
Pursuing the benefits you deserve
It is never easy to secure Social Security disability benefits. The process is complex, and many initial claims come back denied. If you are filing a claim for benefits, have already learned that your claim is not approved or simply want to learn more about your options, you have the right to seek legal help at any point in the claims process.
It can be beneficial to first seek a complete case evaluation before you apply and file your claim. You can take the first step by reaching out to an experienced New Jersey disability attorney as soon as you decide it is necessary to seek financial support.