When a Knee Injury Qualifies for SSDI

To qualify for SSDI, your knee injury must meet the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) definition of a disability. This means:

• Your injury must be severe enough to prevent you from working.
• The disability must have lasted (or be expected to last) at least 12 months, or be expected to result in death.
• You must have a sufficient work history and paid into Social Security.

The SSA lists certain knee conditions that could qualify, such as:

• Major joint dysfunction (including knees)
• Reconstructive surgery of a major weight-bearing joint
• Severe arthritis or degenerative joint disease
• Long-term mobility impairments requiring the use of a walker, two crutches, or a wheelchair

Even if your injury isn’t specifically listed, you may still qualify if you can prove that your condition significantly limits your ability to work.

Medical Evidence You’ll Need

Strong medical documentation is essential to prove the severity of your knee injury. Here’s what you should gather:

• Doctor’s Reports: Include detailed notes from your treating physician about your diagnosis, symptoms, and how the injury affects your daily function.
• Imaging Results: X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans showing the severity of the knee damage.
• Treatment Records: Surgical records, physical therapy notes, medications, and any other treatments attempted.
• Mobility Aids: Documentation showing your use of assistive devices such as a cane or crutches.
• Functional Limitations: A statement from your doctor detailing your inability to walk, stand, or lift, and how long you can sit or move before experiencing pain.

Filing Your SSDI Application for a Knee Injury

Applying for SSDI can be time-consuming, but doing it thoroughly increases your chances of approval. Follow these tips:

• Apply Online at www.ssa.gov or at your local SSA office.
• Answer Every Question Accurately and completely, especially when explaining how your knee injury prevents you from working.
• Be Consistent in how you describe your symptoms and limitations across all forms and documents.
• Submit All Required Medical Records and personal documents up front to avoid delays.

Be Prepared for the SSA’s Evaluation Process

The SSA uses a five-step evaluation to determine if your knee injury qualifies for SSDI:

• Are you working? If you’re earning more than the allowed limit, you may be disqualified.
• Is your condition severe? It must significantly limit your ability to perform basic work tasks.
• Does your condition meet a listing? If your knee injury matches a listing in the SSA’s Blue Book, approval is more likely.
• Can you perform past work? If you can still do your old job, your claim may be denied.
• Can you do any work? The SSA will consider your age, education, and experience to determine if you can switch to a different job.

Don’t Be Discouraged by a Denial

Initial denials are common, even with strong cases. If your claim is denied:

• File for Reconsideration within 60 days.
• Request a Hearing before an Administrative Law Judge if reconsideration is also denied.
• Gather Additional Evidence to support your case, including updated medical records or new opinions from specialists.