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How to Apply for Social Security Disability with Arthritis

Arthritis - Applying for Social Security

If you suffer from arthritis that is so severe that it impacts your ability to work, you may be eligible to qualify for Social Security Disability benefits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) oversees disability programs that offer monthly benefits to individuals who are unable to work because of medical conditions. To qualify for disability benefits from the SSA, you must be fully disabled as no partial benefits are offered. There are two kinds of Social Security Disability benefits offered, and which you qualify for depends on your work history and your financial situation.

There are two types of disability benefits available for people with arthritis. Medically qualifying for each will be exactly the same, but the programs will have their own technical qualifications.

What is Social Security Disability Insurance?

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is for workers who have earned sufficient credits. In general, this means you must have worked the equivalent of five years full-time out of the last 10 years, but that can vary dependent upon age. To qualify, you have had to pay in adequate taxes to the SSA, which in turn, resulted in your earning credits that apply toward your account. So long as you’ve worked at least five of the past ten years, you should qualify.

Supplemental Security Income

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a needs-based disability program that is based on your income. There are stringent income and resource requirements that must be met to qualify for SSI. If you had worked to earn sufficient credits and receive SSDI, but your monthly benefits are low enough, you can also qualify for SSI as well. Disabled children or adults without sufficient work history can also qualify for SSI benefits. You monthly SSI check can vary, dependent upon your other income. The current maximum SSI benefit rate for individuals is $733 and $1,100 for couples.

The SSA Evaluation Process for Disability Approval

Arthritis can meet medical qualifications in the Blue Book, which is the medical guide used by the SSA to determine disability. In the Blue Book, the Musculoskeletal System is listed under Section 1.00, which also includes osteoarthritis. To meet the criteria to be determined disabled because of arthritis, you must prove that your arthritis pain is so severe that it impacts your ability to do daily tasks, and impacts your mobility. Your medical records must be thorough, indicating any treatments or medications you have taken and how you responded to those treatments and therapies.

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Section 1.02 addresses Joint Dysfunction, which indicates that your impacted joints must suffer chronic pain, loss of motion, stiffness, or what is referred to as “gross anatomical deformity”. Your medical files need to include images that show narrowing of spaces, stiffness or fusion, or bony destruction of the joints that are impacted.

You can also qualify for Social Security with arthritis by proving that at least one of your weight-bearing joints, such as a knee, ankle, spine, or hip, is impacted to the point that you cannot walk without an assistive device such as crutches or a walker, which limits the functioning of both arms, and in maintaining a pace considered reasonable as you walk a sufficient distance or that your shoulder, wrist, elbow, or hand have been severely impacted so you cannot perform fine gross motor skills, such as fingering, pushing, or pulling.

Applying for Benefits

You can start the disability application process online at https://www.SSA.gov or by calling toll-free 1-800-772-1213. You can also visit your local SSA office and start your application in person. The key to a successful claim is providing thorough documentation that supports your case and proves the severity of your condition and how it limits your ability to work. With enough medical evidence to support your claim, you could be approved in a couple of months.

Helpful Links

SSA Website: https://www.SSA.govSocial Security Disability Insurance

Social Security Income: https://www.disabilitybenefitscenter.org/supplemental-security-income/how-to-qualify

SSA Blue Book: https://www.ssa.gov/disability/professionals/bluebook/AdultListings.htm

SSA Blue Book Listing 1.02: https://www.ssa.gov/disability/professionals/bluebook/1.00-Musculoskeletal-Adult.htm

4.7
2,564 TOTAL 1ST PARTY REVIEWS / OUT OF 5 STARS

Super professional foot clinic with an expert and attentive team on all things feet!

Achikam S.
Achikam S.

All good- thank you!

Barbara P.
Barbara P.

The doctor was very good and explained everything. And the therapist, Gray O'Brien, was particularly good, too.

Charles P.
Charles P.

I completely trust Dr. Baravarian and all his staff. They are knowledgeable, thoughtful, polite, have patience and I feel like they know who I am.

Lillian C.
Lillian C.

Dr. Bob is a remarkable surgeon! Most importantly, Dr. Bob understands the needs of each individual patient. I felt very comfortable and confident in the presence of Dr. Bob. I am looking forward to a speedy recovery.

Susan V.
Susan V.

i'm so happy that I found this office and I definitely like the entire staff. I'm happy that I had met Dr. Bavarian. one thing I really like is that if you have a question they get back to you quickly

Kathleen M.
Kathleen M.

It was only my first visit, but I was totally impressed with Gray's knowledge. Now to do the homework!

Dorothy J.
Dorothy J.

Signing up for your portal was over the top challenging for me as an Elder- non techie. Your staff at the front desk said they would be glad to help next time I come in or stop by. So, for now, I have no way to communicate, except by phone.

Diana M.
Diana M.

I really like this medical facility because it's a one stop shop. Also I'm very pleased with physician and his expertise in this area of medicine. That's primarily why I chose him.

Robert C.
Robert C.

They are great people‚ I am glad Dr Batavian taking care of me‚ his staff is also great!!!!

Cagatay B.
Cagatay B.

Dr. Baravarian was thorough in exploring and diagnosing the issues related to my feet. I greatly appreciate that he is on the cutting edge of treatment options.

Deborah M.
Deborah M.

Dr. Bob and Michelle are amazing and the only ones I can count on

Dianne B.
Dianne B.

I have been a patient at Dr. Bob Baravarian for many years now. And the quality of care has been the same throughout this time. Dr Bob is the best!

Leandre M.
Leandre M.

I had a good experience. All were friendly and competent.

Susan S.
Susan S.

Dr. Bob and his staff are exceptional in both talent and service. His surgical skills are top notch. So happy with results. I have already recommended him to a friend who needs the same surgery!

Elena S.
Elena S.

All good- thank you!

Katherine T.
Katherine T.

it's all good.

James M.
James M.

The foot MRI in Santa Monica was a GODSEND for claustrophobics like me!! Everyone was kind and so excellent. I plan to have foot surgery with them in the fall, and I know that will have a great outcome, too. Thanks to Dr.Barvarian forhis many kindnesses!

Lesley C.
Lesley C.

Not sure why but i had to wait almost an hour to be seen. I was on time. There were a dozen people in the waiting room, even some lined out the door. This was the first time this happened. The staff apologized so i figure something was going on. Otherwise, Dr. Bob and staff was wonderful. Maryrose Hopke

Mary H.
Mary H.

Everyone was friendly and professional.

Victor L.
Victor L.

Dr. Bob is an excellent surgeon, his team is highly professional and caring! I am satisfied with all the surgery process and the follow up at this institute! Thank you to all!

Maria H.
Maria H.

Simply the Best

Richard G.
Richard G.

I have known Dr. Bob for over a decade now and he is yet one of the best professional doctors I have ever had the pleasure to do treatment with for podiatry concerns!

Derrick M.
Derrick M.

so helpful, he gave me exercises that I could take home and do myself. My foot is much better already!

Catherine B.
Catherine B.

The doctor and staff were great

George M.
George M.

Efficient and very competent doctors and personnel! Dr Bob and staff are amaze!

Joyce I.
Joyce I.

Very impressive. The doctor was especially great

Kristine L.
Kristine L.

No. Everything was great

Kathleen B.
Kathleen B.

My experiences with Dr. Bob has always been very good. Thanks.

Paulette A.
Paulette A.

Great job

Donald K.
Donald K.

Gray is amazing. Professional and has shown me great exercises for my feet.

Olivia G.
Olivia G.

The only thing that would make me so happy would be if Dr Bob opened an office in Nottheast LA! Maybe Eagle Rock or South Pasadena? Glendale? Literally, I can't thing of anything else!

Amy B.
Amy B.

Always very happy with my care.

Linda T.
Linda T.

.

Rob N.
Rob N.

Everyone at the office is so nice and welcoming always!! I really am impressed that when I send an email asking any questions Dr. Bob gets back to me within minutes if possible if not asap.

Helen M.
Helen M.

Fully satisfied of Great services provided by MDs and staff.

Soozan S.
Soozan S.

They were kind and extremely informative.

Assal H.
Assal H.

My appointment went very well. I am quite pleased with the treatment I received.

Susan S.
Susan S.

Appointment time on time and staff is very kind to accommodate your needs. I would definitely recommend too, if I could. But this comes from my insurance

Carmelita L.
Carmelita L.

Love your staff - especially at desk. So kind. I am very grateful to Dr Bob and his staff- I know he starts out conservatively and for that I am so deeply appreciative. I have seen 3-4 other podiatrist and no one recommended custom orthotics- something that has helped out...and they also just want to turn to cortisone even as sustained treatment protocol. I happily do the drive for his experience, knowledge, but also great " bedside manner"- seeing the human that is seeking his care!

Katia G.
Katia G.

Always great! Love the way Dr. Bob is so attentive and answers his email within moments most of the time.

Helen M.
Helen M.

They have the best customer service I ever had

Marcus C.
Marcus C.

Some of the practitioners don't cut the nails flat and when they grow they hurt me

REBECA V.
REBECA V.

It was really prepared for this presiger. Thanks much for your hard work.

Leonid P.
Leonid P.

You sure had me wait a long time before I saw the doctor, and he was great.

Katherine D.
Katherine D.

This is the second foot medical issue I have experienced. Both times, I went to Dr. Bob. Both experiences were great! Thank you!

Paulette A.
Paulette A.

I love the 7:00 appointments. Everyone I dealt with was great!

Tom D.
Tom D.

Always a Good job at cutting and cleaning my nails

Linda S.
Linda S.

Dr. Baravarian was not only very diligent about my procedure (cryo-ablation), and when he received email from me that it did not work, he engaged in multiple emails on a Sunday to discuss alternative next steps and converged into what he thought was the best step -- neuroma excision surgery. He offered to perform it whenever I was ready. My overall confidence in his capability is very good, matched what I've seen on the Dr. Bob website. I'll most likely take this next step although I'm a bit far away, in Santa Barbara. The staff at Dr. Bob is similarly excellent, which is very important because they represent the patient's interface to Dr. Bob. Please continue to do all this great work!

NUGGEHALLY J.
NUGGEHALLY J.

Yes. All aspects of practice are excellent

Katheryn P.
Katheryn P.

Very friendly receptionist and X-ray tech. Doctor was kind, thorough, didn't feel rushed.

Carol S.
Carol S.

Great experience from the moment I checked I to the moment I checked out. Friendly and efficient staff and amazing doctor. Thank you

Kendy G.
Kendy G.

Every thing was great

Amos H.
Amos H.

Love the staff. Dr B is great and has great bedside manner.

Jill T.
Jill T.

Friendly staff and very knowledgeable doctor! Dr Bob is great!

Stacy M.
Stacy M.

Glad he sent me to PT. Very helpful.

Johanna S.
Johanna S.

Everyone was friendly, efficient and professional. I was seen timely and Doctor Bob was clear and helpful!

Gregg S.
Gregg S.

great staff smart doctors

Elizabeth K.
Elizabeth K.

I was very surprised they were able to see me so quickly and did a wonderful job diagnosing and treating my problem

Joanne K.
Joanne K.

My concern/issue was addressed/solved on the first visit. Doctors were approachable, communicating and called back in response to the query I had. Staff was extremely attentive, courteous and able to help with my portal questions

Dan T.
Dan T.

Staff is very professional and work to be very helpful to me

Masae S.
Masae S.

Excellent.

Susan S.
Susan S.

Great so far but I am only one week out of surgery

Drew R.
Drew R.

Just happy with my experience.

Diane B.
Diane B.

Great experience and really helped me with my foot pain.

Sam Z.
Sam Z.

thanks!

Steven S.
Steven S.

Great advice given to my specific foot questions and concerns. I really appreciated the options and potential outcomes from having procedures done. With both feet needing separate attention it gave me food for thought. I would definitely have Dr. Bob do the surgery when I've decided.

Jeffrey C.
Jeffrey C.

Evette @Front desk was EXTREMELY Helpful & was even able to find record of my previous visit .. that I did not even remember from over 15yrs ago Was EXCELLENT Visit & I left feeling MUCH Better, knowing I've got the perf treatment for problem that's been causing discomfort &trouble for weeks & can easily return if problem persists THANK YOU 2All @University office in Santa Monica !!

Karen M.
Karen M.

I had been referred to two previous foot and ankle specialists. Neither of them even touched my foot. Dr. Baravarian and his staff took their time, reviewed previous surgery reports, manipulated and tested my foot, and took new XRays for their review. I couldn't have been happier with the visit and I look forward to achieving some positive results working with them.

Gregory R.
Gregory R.

Very professional

Donald L.
Donald L.

Dr. Bob has been absolutely amazing and so has Dr. Kwon. When I've emailed with questions, the response time has been shockingly quick. Everybody in the office has been so kind and responsive. Thank you.!

Kimberly W.
Kimberly W.

Dr. B has solved three different foot issues for me the past couple years. He has been spot on and I am so relieved to have found this company.

Marcie G.
Marcie G.

Very efficient and well run office. Really liked the doctor.

Paula S.
Paula S.

Dr. Baravarian is great. Always explains and makes me feel at ease when injecting my foot

Jane M.
Jane M.

I felt great, the receptionist is the most kind and helpful person I ever encountered, she goes out of her way to help us, she's a wonderful person

Monica F.
Monica F.

Nice staff and great doctor

Mahnaz M.
Mahnaz M.

It has been a great experience. I do feel the orthotics are pricey.

Steven S.
Steven S.

Everything was satisfactory.

Roderick C.
Roderick C.

Really friendly and helpful.

Mary Ann J.
Mary Ann J.

I always recommend this practice. Dr Bob Baravarian is expert and caring. The practice works hard to get you in and out fast! They are masters of of insurance. I also love their hours.

Karen G.
Karen G.

The most caring medical facility since I have moved to California. The people here care about me. I really appreciate that and truly feel I will be able to walk properly for the first time in a long time.

Anton H.
Anton H.

Amazingly good experience!!!

Kathleen K.
Kathleen K.

Dr. Bob is the BEST!

Shawn G.
Shawn G.

Friendly staff ,the doctor explained what he was doing and why! I'll be back

Valerie H.
Valerie H.

Dr Bob is excellent++++. He listens closely, provides explanations in a thoughtful and intelligent manner.

Abbe B.
Abbe B.

I love the place: easy in and quickly out.

Jon D.
Jon D.

I have recommended Dr. Bob to several people!

Sara N.
Sara N.

Made to feel comfortable in the office; confident in the‚ diagnosis and competency.

Debora F.
Debora F.

Just waiting for my written MRI report to be emailed to me so I can discuss with my Primary Physician Thank you

Marilyn G.
Marilyn G.

Excellent care. Thank you!

Gavin S.
Gavin S.

Absolutely amazing. Very pleased

Roxana S.
Roxana S.

Everyone I dealt with each time I come in have been great. Everyone is knowledgeable, friendly, and caring.

Tim T.
Tim T.

Truly made a bad experience/ break into a pleasant experience! Thank you

Dwayne F.
Dwayne F.

Thanks.

Jack M.
Jack M.

Very pleased with everything.

Patricia G.
Patricia G.

Dr. Bob Baravarian is very professional with an excellent staff.

George K.
George K.

The front staff is efficient t while being helpful, kind, and always please my even when much is asked of them.

Stacy G.
Stacy G.

All went well

Michele S.
Michele S.

Fantastic place to go I would recommend them to anybody

William I.
William I.

Simply great. Dr. Bob has a wonderful bedside manner as does everyone in the office. Medically excellent care.

Marjorie H.
Marjorie H.

Great provider

Haleh E.
Haleh E.

Dr baravarian was thorough in explanation of his treatment plan. he also included me in the discussion and decision of how he felt i would come out with the best outcome. i have absolute faith in dr baravarian

Jason N.
Jason N.

Julianna was very helpful and she took the time to help me and answer all my questions!!

Monica O.
Monica O.

Keep up the good work!

Steven O.
Steven O.

Great professional service

Carl M.
Carl M.

Dr. Bob Baravarian and his staff are fantastic!

Todd B.
Todd B.

My experience has been good so far. Everyone is very friendly, courteous, caring.

Susan P.
Susan P.

"Dr. Bob" Baravarian is a very knowledgeable practitioner and I really like the style in which he communicates, explaining suggested treatment in layman's language. He has a relaxed, warm bedside manner. My recent visits have been for ingrown toenails, taken care of in 1 office visit. Dr. Bob" is a trustworthy professional.

Bernice B.
Bernice B.

I like the early appointments. Entire staff is the best!

Tom D.
Tom D.

My experience at the clinic was wonderful. Everybody was super nice and basically on time. Love Dr. Bavarian and also love the socks. I have recommended the clinic to friends already.

Lynn B.
Lynn B.

I depend on the doctors at Dr. Bob to provide cutting edge treatments. Twice, I have traveled from Tucson, Arizona to get the care my feet needed so I can continue to do what I love. Thanks to Dr Baravarian, I am able to hike again.

Jean S.
Jean S.

job well done

Mohammad G.
Mohammad G.

Everything match my expectations

Claudia F.
Claudia F.

First class care.

Thomas T.
Thomas T.

The physical therapy side is great but the podiatrist side can be crowded and overbooked at times.

Lalida S.
Lalida S.

With the exception of waiting long, the staff & the doctor were great.

Anuosh M.
Anuosh M.

Positive. Front office staff is very friendly and professional, everyone was pleasant all throughout, explaining what was going on, taking respectful care of me with friendly tone. Great experience.

Susan P.
Susan P.

Great X-ray facility. Assistants are knowledgeable. They need to improve their billing system. Not happy with texted receipt for payment of needed equipment. Not printable. I was then billed for same equipment even though I had already paid for it.

Yvonne E.
Yvonne E.

I was met curtisley, I was treated with respect, I was made comfortable, why the procedure was taking place, I couldn't ask for better service, Thank you for a job well done.

Randolph G.
Randolph G.

Request a different therapist for my next visit coming up on October 29 had a lot of bleeding on my big toe

Pamela B.
Pamela B.

Only concern is about finances. I met my annual deductible via insurance, but there were still additional charges. I believe I was supposed to get refunded the charges, but not sure if it was. Other than that, great place from medical and treatment perspective.

Tejesh M.
Tejesh M.

Having procedure in January my consultation went well and the staff was very kind and caring. Im hopeful.

France S.
France S.

I have had Foot and Ankle problems for over 15 years. But when I have a foot problem. Dr Baravarian is great!

John L.
John L.

I believe that there should be a nurse practitioner in the practice. I can tell that there there are only medical doctors and that's okay but a nurse practitioner's validated competencies include practical management of conditions.

Eworth Charles M.
Eworth Charles M.

A well organized and effective specialty practice. I would recommend it without reservation.

Robert M.
Robert M.

Prefer your Sherman Oaks office over Santa Monica. Wait times are minimal there compared with Santa Monica.

Yvonne E.
Yvonne E.

Speaking with the doctor was a lot of information at once but I know I‚ have other app ointments before my surgery to be able to ask more questions.

Linda D.
Linda D.

Staff courteous. My toe problem was not addressed adequately. Soreness in big toe continues indicating inflammation

Nirmala M.
Nirmala M.

Very good. Staff premises and procedures were done very professionally

Chris K.
Chris K.

The doctor was great. However, I had a question about the doctor's instructions after I got home. Calling the office was a disaster. I was transferred to call center after call center. The office never answered. Even though I was just there and the office was there. The did not answer. The call center took a message. I got a call 4 days later. I probably would not go back again just because I think it's important for the office to answer there phones and not sub out to a call center.

Denise K.
Denise K.

Treatment and staff are wonderful. Wait to be seen past appointment time is disappointing.

Ruth B.
Ruth B.

I was very impressed

Robert L.
Robert L.

I am a patient for more than 2 years because of my work related injury Dr Baravarian and staff always take good care of me. I am so happy to be have them.

Cagatay B.
Cagatay B.

There was way too much confusion about the insurance information.

Kathy K.
Kathy K.

So far it is fine. The staff is nice but it takes days for follow-up, multiple messages etc.

Lori T.
Lori T.

The young man who the Doctor left to pare benign lesions did a very mediocre job. The Doctor did a good job with my in grown toenail although it was quite painful.

Maurice E.
Maurice E.

Very professional in their approach and information was provided nicely.

Richard P.
Richard P.

The team is very knowledgeable and attentive. As a person with ADHD my recommendation would be for the doctors to clearly list out treatment plan options for patients. In my case, I know it was conservative steps including steroid injection, custom orthotics, physical therapy... followed by either cryoablation or neurectomy. It's helpful to have a clear visual action plan including recommended direction versus alternative direction/s to weigh and decide upon. Bottom line, helping patient to understand the injury/issue, the standard conservative/progressive steps, etc. working towards resolving the issue.

Dan G.
Dan G.

Fair. Doctor did not fully explain condition or take enough time

Annette H.
Annette H.

I was prescribed an expensive, not insured cream that did not help me.

Bruce O.
Bruce O.

Front desk staff was wonderful. However, I felt very rushed by the doctor during my visit and was not officially advised that there would be a remote scribe during the visit. I felt as though I didn't have the opportunity to actually be heard by the doctor.

Gwendoline M.
Gwendoline M.

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