Conditions That Qualify for Disability

Amputation refers to the loss of a limb or part of a limb due to any cause, including injury, disease, or surgery. SSA evaluates amputation claims under Blue Book Listing 1.20, which covers amputations resulting from any cause. To qualify, your medical records must document the amputation according to one of four specific criteria (A, B, C, or D) outlined in the listing. SSA focuses on whether the amputation significantly limits your ability to perform basic work-related activities.

Arthritis and joint dysfunction refer to conditions that damage or limit the normal movement of major joints in the arms or legs. SSA evaluates these conditions by looking at imaging results, physical examination findings, and the functional impact the joint problems have on your ability to move and get around.

Back pain and spinal disorders cover a wide range of conditions that affect the bones, nerves, and structures of the spine. When these conditions compress or damage nerve roots or the cauda equina — the bundle of nerves at the base of the spine — they can cause severe, lasting limitations. SSA evaluates spinal disorder claims primarily under two Blue Book listings: Listing 1.15, which covers disorders of the skeletal spine that compromise a nerve root, and Listing 1.16, which covers lumbar spinal stenosis that compromises the cauda equina. Both listings require documented medical evidence meeting specific criteria labeled A, B, C, and D.

Degenerative disc disease is a spinal condition that SSA evaluates under its general spinal disorders guidelines — there is no dedicated listing for it. SSA focuses on whether nerve compression or spinal narrowing limits your ability to work, walk, or perform physical tasks.

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition causing widespread pain, fatigue, and cognitive difficulties. SSA does not have a dedicated Blue Book listing for fibromyalgia, but evaluates claims based on how your symptoms affect your ability to function and work.

Fractures and bone injuries that fail to heal properly, or that occur because of an underlying disease weakening the bones, can qualify for Social Security disability benefits. SSA evaluates these claims under the musculoskeletal listings, focusing on whether the fracture is pathologic (caused by a disease process), non-healing, or complex — and whether it significantly limits your ability to function. Simply breaking a bone is not enough on its own; SSA looks at specific medical documentation showing the fracture's nature, location, and impact on your daily functioning.

Joint replacement surgery — also called reconstructive surgery or surgical arthrodesis — involves rebuilding or fusing a major weight-bearing joint, such as a hip or knee. SSA evaluates disability claims for this condition under Blue Book Listing 1.17, which applies specifically to reconstructive surgery or surgical arthrodesis of a major weight-bearing joint. To be considered disabled under this listing, your medical records must satisfy three documented criteria (labeled A, B, and C in the listing) that SSA reviewers will examine closely.

Obesity no longer has its own dedicated SSA listing, but it can still support a disability claim. SSA evaluates how excess weight impacts your joints, lungs, heart, and other body systems — alone or alongside other conditions — to determine whether you can work.

Osteoporosis is a condition that weakens bones and increases fracture risk. SSA does not have a dedicated disability listing for osteoporosis, but evaluates it based on resulting fractures, skeletal changes, and how severely your bone loss limits your ability to walk, lift, or carry.

Plantar fasciitis is a painful foot condition caused by inflammation of the tissue along the bottom of the foot. SSA does not have a dedicated listing for it, but evaluates how your foot pain limits walking and standing when deciding if you qualify for disability benefits.

Soft tissue injuries involve damage to muscles, tendons, ligaments, or other non-bone tissue in the body. SSA evaluates these injuries under Blue Book Listing 1.21, which focuses specifically on soft tissue injuries or abnormalities that require ongoing surgical management — meaning your condition is serious enough that doctors are actively performing or planning surgical procedures to treat it. SSA looks at documented evidence of the injury itself, the surgical treatment being performed, and how the condition affects your ability to function.