Can you win social security disability disability benefits on the basis of arthritic spurs?
Answer: The Social Security Administration's disability evaluation system does not focus on a claimant's diagnosis, but, rather, on the functional limitations a claimant has. In other words, the name of the condition is not the chief consideration. How the condition "affects and limits: the indiviual is the primary concern. So, yes, disability benefits can be won on the basis of nearly any condition provided that the condition is sufficiently limiting.
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Arthritic spurs are bone spurs (osteophytes) that are caused by an arthritic condition such as osteoarthritis. A bone spur is really a projection of bone tissue that forms along the damaged surface of a joint. However, these arthritic spurs usually limit the range of an affected joint and can also cause pain. Other than forming on joints, bone spurs may occur on the spine and heels. Arthritis spurs can also develop on toes. Arthritic spurs on the DIP joints are known as Heberden’s nodes and arthritic spurs on the PIP joints are called Bouchard’s Nodes. Additionally, spurs may be caused by other conditions such as bursitis and tendonitis.
