Is Osteoporosis a Disability?

When we think of disabilities, we often think of wheelchairs, crutches, and other physical limitations.
But what if there is a disability hidden beneath the surface that silently afflicts many people? It’s called osteoporosis.
Let’s discuss more about what osteoporosis actually is as well as the legal implications of the question, “Is Osteoporosis a disability?”

What is Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a condition that mainly affects older adults, especially women.
It happens when the bones lose density and become fragile, which makes them more susceptible to fractures.

The condition often progresses silently and without symptoms until a bone breaks.
This means that someone with osteoporosis appears fine on the outside, but their bones are anything but healthy.

Living with osteoporosis means living in a world where even simple tasks can become dangerous.
Lifting heavy objects, bending down, or even a minor fall could cause fractures.

Is Osteoporosis a Disability? – Legal Considerations

Now, let’s address the question: Is Osteoporosis a Disability?
In itself, osteoporosis is not a disability.

But if the disease causes symptoms or complications that affect a person’s everyday life, for example, repeated bone breaks or chronic pain, then it can be classified as a disability.
When determining whether a condition qualifies as a disability, legal frameworks and definitions are essential.

Different jurisdictions use different criteria for classifying disabilities.
In the United States, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) defines disability as a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities.

In some cases, osteoporosis might meet the ADA’s criteria.
Severe osteoporosis can restrict a person’s ability to walk, bend, or perform simple tasks, limiting major life activities.

However, it is important to note that each case varies, and a thorough assessment should be carried out to determine disability eligibility.

Perspectives on Osteoporosis as a Disability

Medical Perspective. From a medical standpoint, osteoporosis is considered a chronic condition and not a disability itself. It is important to differentiate between having a medical condition and having a disability. While osteoporosis can have limitations, it is not always severe enough to qualify as a disability under certain legal definitions.

Social Perspective. From a social perspective, the impact of osteoporosis on a person’s life can be quite diverse. Some people with osteoporosis might need assistive devices, modifications to their living spaces, or even caregiver support. These factors might lead to considering osteoporosis as a disability, as it affects a person’s ability to live independently in society.

Personal Perspective. Personal experiences play an important role in the perception of osteoporosis as a disability.

Someone who is able to manage their osteoporosis symptoms effectively and continue to engage in daily activities without much difficulty may not consider themselves disabled.

On the other hand, people who struggle with severe pain, fractures, and limitations may view themselves as living with a disability.

Can You Get Disability for Osteoporosis?

We want to address another question: Is osteoporosis a disability for social security?
Osteoporosis can qualify as a disability for Social Security purposes in certain circumstances.

If you are experiencing severe limitations due to osteoporosis, you might be eligible to receive disability benefits from the Social Security Administration (SSA) in the United States.
The SSA has a program called Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).

It provides monthly benefits to people who meet the criteria for being disabled.

To determine eligibility, the SSA has a five-step process in place.
The process measures the severity of the impairments caused by osteoporosis and how they affect your ability to perform major gainful activity (work).

The factors that might be considered include the number and severity of fractures, pain levels, limitations in movement, and their effect on your daily living.
It’s worth noting that not all people with osteoporosis will be eligible for disability benefits.

Meeting the criteria set by the SSA can be a complicated process.

In What Case Does Osteoporosis Quality as a Disability?

To qualify for disability for osteoporosis, the condition must meet the following requirements:

1. Medically determinable impairment. Osteoporosis must be diagnosed through medical evidence, like bone density tests, medical history, clinical examinations, and imaging studies.
2. Severe limitations. The symptoms and effects of osteoporosis must cause limitations in your ability to perform basic work activities: like standing, walking, lifting, or carrying.
3. Inability to perform past work. It must be proven you cannot complete the work you did previously because of your osteoporosis.
4. Inability to perform other work. You must also prove that you can’t adjust to different types of work because of your age, education, work experience, and functional limitations caused by osteoporosis.
5. Duration. Your condition must be expected to last for at least 12 months.

Please consult with the SSA or a qualified health professional for specific information about your case.

Final Thoughts

Is osteoporosis a disability? It depends on the person’s circumstances and the legal framework as to whether osteoporosis is considered a disability.
Osteoporosis can greatly affect a person’s day-to-day existence, including their ability to carry out everyday tasks.
But, determining disability requires a thorough assessment of the condition’s severity and impact on a person’s ability to function.
If you or someone close to you is dealing with osteoporosis, it is important to get medical advice and research the support systems in your area.

Please contact us at Primary Care of Kansas for more information, resources, and support.

FAQ Section

Is osteoporosis a disability?

Osteoporosis can be considered a disability if it severely limits your ability to perform daily activities or work.
Meeting specific criteria set by the Social Security Administration (SSA) is necessary to qualify for disability benefits.

Can I get disability benefits for osteoporosis?

It is possible to receive disability benefits for osteoporosis if the condition is severe enough to meet the specific SSA criteria.
The severity and resulting limitations caused by osteoporosis will be evaluated during the application process.

What benefits can I get if I have osteoporosis?

If you qualify for disability benefits due to osteoporosis, you may be able to receive monthly payments through the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program.
You can also be eligible for Medicare coverage after a waiting period of two years.

Does knee replacement surgery qualify for disability benefits?

Under certain circumstances, knee replacement surgery can qualify a person for disability benefits.
It’s when it severely limits mobility and the ability to perform work or daily tasks.

Can you have knee replacement if you have osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis patients can get knee replacement surgery, but they should take precautions.
An evaluation by a medical professional is needed to assess the risks and benefits.

Is osteopenia a disability?

The condition of osteopenia itself is generally not considered a disability.
If it progresses to a severe form of osteoporosis, you might qualify.

Does broken bones qualify for disability benefits?

A broken bone doesn’t automatically qualify you for disability.