Gout is a form of painful arthritis that is caused by too much uric acid. The accumulation of uric acid can form crystals in joints and also create kidney stones.
Gout symptoms can include redness, swelling, pain, stiffness in joints and heat. While the big toe is a common gout location, it may occur in wrists, ankles, heels, elbows and fingers. Acute gout attacks are treatable with lifestyle and medication, while severe gout can cause deformation of the joint and is not treated as effectively.
Some people who cannot work may qualify for benefits if their gout meets the listing requirements detailed in the Social Security Administration’s Blue Book. Contact a Social Security disability lawyer at Dayes Law Firm PC for a free consultation to learn more and get help with your application.
Qualifying for Benefits
People suffering from severe gout may automatically be approved for benefits if their gout type fulfills the Social Security Administration’s impairment listing for inflammatory arthritis and is anticipated to last longer than 12 months.
In order to meet this listing requirement, you will have to:
- Receive a diagnosis by a rheumatologist
- Suffer from either ongoing inflammation or experience chronic deformity
- A minimum of one weight-bearing joint, like a hip or knee, must interfere with your ability to walk and perform daily activities
- A minimum of one joint in each arm, like a wrist or hand, must interfere with daily activities such as writing bills
Have your physician review the inflammatory arthritis listing requirements to see if you meet the Blue Book requirements. In addition to the above requirements, you will need to provide documentation of treatments you have received, lab work and other medical evidence to support your disabling condition when you apply for benefits.
If you do not meet the disability listing requirements but satisfy the durational requirement (that your gout condition will last longer than a year) the SSA will evaluate your ability to work and determine if there are any jobs you could do if you can no longer work at your previous job.
This review is called a residual functional capacity assessment (RFC). If your productivity is reduced by 20 percent, the SSA will consider you disabled.
If you are thinking about filling out a benefits application or if your claim has been denied, a disability attorney can work on your behalf, advocating for you and ensuring you have the appropriate documentation.
Contact the experienced disability attorneys at Dayes Law Firm PC today to set up your free claim review.
Call 1-800-503-2000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form.