Des Plaines, Illinois, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Osteoarthritis, and Social Security Disability Lawyers

Rheumatoid arthritis and Osteoarthritis can be cruel and debilitating. Getting out of bed in the morning can be a painful and arduous process, and performing the daily activities required in a work environment can be nearly impossible. At the Des Plaines, Illinois, law firm of Jeffrey A. Rabin & Associates, Ltd., we serve SSDI and SSI claimants in Chicago, Illinois, and across the nation. Our firm has effectively assisted numerous clients in pursuing successful Social Security Disability claims related to Rheumatoid arthritis and Osteoarthritis.

Rheumatoid Arthritis, Osteoarthritis, and SSDI and SSI Claims

Fortunately, for Rheumatoid arthritis and Osteoarthritis suffers the Social Security Administration (SSA) recognizes arthritis as an impairment that qualifies for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). However, certain standards of disability must be met before Social Security Disability benefits are granted.

In order to qualify for SSDI or SSI, the Social Security Administration guidelines require that Rheumatoid arthritis or Osteoarthritis cause a major dysfunction of the joints, involving an anatomical deformity, chronic joint pain, and stiffness that results in limited mobility. Limited mobility is defined by the SSA as:

• Involvement of one major peripheral weight-bearing joint (i.e., hip, knee, or ankle), resulting in the inability to ambulate effectively
• Involvement of one major peripheral joint in each upper extremity (i.e., shoulder, elbow, or wrist-hand), resulting in the inability to perform fine and gross movements effectively

Typically, the SSA requires evidence such as a physical examination, x-rays, and a detailed description of the joints, including range of motion, condition of the musculature, sensory or reflex changes, circulatory deficits, and laboratory findings to make their benefits eligibility determination. The SSA may also use CAT scans or MRIs if they are available to help make a decision regarding Social Security Disability benefits.

Applying for SSDI or SSI Benefits in Relation to Cancer

The Social Security Disability application process is intended to allow claimants to handle claims without legal counsel, especially as they relate to listed impairments such as Rheumatoid arthritis and Osteoarthritis. However, only 35% of all Social Security Disability applications are approved at their initial filing. As experienced Social Security Disability lawyers, we understand the application process, what medical information needs to be presented to get Social Security Disability benefits, and how to appropriately fill out application forms for cancer related SSDI or SSI applications. In addition, we have extensive experience handling Requests for Reconsideration and hearings before Administrative Law Judges (ALJ) when SSDI and SSI benefits are denied.

Contact our Experienced Des Plaines, Illinois, SSDI and SSI Cancer Attorneys

If you or a family member suffers from cancer and cannot work, please contact the Chicago SSI and SSDI lawyers at Jeffrey A. Rabin & Associates, Ltd. We can be reached by phone toll free at 1-888-LAW-0600 or locally by calling (847) 299-0008. Our attorneys can also be contacted by e-mail and by filling out the intake form on our Contact Us page.