Major Joint Dysfunction, Pt. 2
Return to Major Joint Dysfunction, Pt. 1.
Major Listing categories explained
Listing 1.02 refers to a number of categories of major joint dysfunction that are recognized as impairments:
- Subluxation – Dislocation of the joint. Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and fractures are all major causes of subluxation.
- Contracture – A permanent shortening of a joint. This usually occurs after prolonged tightening of muscles or joints, as in certain types of cerebral palsy. The muscles and/or joints remain tight until they shorten. Exercise will not repair the damage; generally orthopedic surgery is required.
- Ankylosis – Stiffness of a joint that occurs with disease or injury. The bones of the joint become rigid with inflammation. A distinction is made between “true” ankylosis and “false” ankylosis. The former occurs when disease infects the joint internally. False ankylosis, by contrast, involves areas outside the joint.
Major Joint Dysfunction and SSD Benefits
Since major joint dysfunction is recognized as a disability regardless of the cause, it is surprising that often claimants are denied benefits on initial application. This may be due to incorrectly completed paperwork. However, often claims in general are denied at first because of the way the benefits process works.
The initial evaluator is not even an employee of SSD, and you may have to go through two appeals before you are able to take your claim before an Administrative Law Judge. It is imperative that you have all of your paperwork in order. Generally claimants find that it is essential to have a New York Disability Lawyer in their corner to ensure the best chances of a successful appeal.
A New York disability lawyer can assist you with matters that are relevant to your claim and appeal. For a free evaluation, call Herbert Forsmith at (212) 809-1772.
