How Hard is it to Get Disability for Osteoporosis?

Understanding Osteoporosis and Its Effects on Health

Osteoporosis is a disease characterized by low bone density and deterioration of bone tissue. This leads to an increased risk of fracture, even from minor bumps or falls. Osteoporosis is a major health concern, affecting approximately 10 million Americans. Another 43 million have low bone density, putting them at increased risk for osteoporosis.

In osteoporosis, the bones become weak and porous, like a sponge. This is due to loss of calcium and other minerals from the bones. The bones lose density and the structural support beams within the bones deteriorate. The bones become fragile and prone to fracture.

What Causes Osteoporosis?

Bone is living tissue that is constantly being renewed through a cycle of bone breakdown and formation. Osteoporosis occurs when this cycle becomes imbalanced. The rate of bone breakdown exceeds the rate of bone formation. Osteoporosis is often called a "silent disease" because bone loss occurs without symptoms. People are often unaware they have osteoporosis until a fracture occurs.

The leading cause of osteoporosis is reduced estrogen levels during menopause in women. Estrogen plays an important role in maintaining bone density. After menopause, women can lose up to 20% of their bone density in the first 5-7 years. However, osteoporosis can also develop in men due to declining testosterone.

Other factors that contribute to osteoporosis include:

• Aging - Bone density naturally decreases as we age after reaching peak bone mass at about age 30
• Family history - Susceptibility can be inherited from parents
• Small, thin body frame
• Nutritional deficiencies - Low calcium, vitamin D, vitamin K
• Inactivity - Lack of weight-bearing exercise
• Smoking - Cigarette smoking inhibits bone formation
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Certain medications - Corticosteroids, anti-seizure drugs
• Other medical conditions - Rheumatoid arthritis, kidney or liver disease

Symptoms of Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis does not have obvious symptoms in the early stages. Many people do not know they have osteoporosis until they experience a fracture. Common osteoporotic fractures occur in the wrist, hip and spine. The symptoms of osteoporosis include:

• Fractures from minor stresses or injuries
• Loss of height and stooped posture as vertebrae collapse
• Back pain due to fractures or collapsed vertebrae
• A curved upper back (dowagers hump)

Diagnosing Osteoporosis

Doctors diagnose osteoporosis using a bone mineral density (BMD) test. This painless, non-invasive test uses X-rays to measure bone density at the hip, spine and sometimes wrist. Based on BMD results, a diagnosis can indicate:

• Normal - No increased fracture risk
• Low bone mass (osteopenia) - Mildly increased fracture risk
• Osteoporosis - Greatly increased fracture risk

The lower the density on the BMD test, the higher the risk of fracture. BMD testing is recommended for all women age 65 and older. Younger women and men with risk factors should also be tested.

Applying for Social Security Disability Benefits for Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis can interfere with daily activities, ability to work and overall quality of life. In severe cases, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits may be available.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for disability benefits due to osteoporosis, your condition must meet Social Security's definition of disability. This means having a severe impairment that:

• Has lasted or is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death
• Prevents you from performing substantial gainful work

Substantial gainful work is defined as earning $1,350 per month for non-blind applicants in 2023. If you are earning above this threshold, you generally will not qualify for benefits.

Proving Disability Due to Osteoporosis

Medical records will be required to prove how osteoporosis limits your physical or mental ability to work. The Social Security Administration (SSA) will evaluate whether:

• Your condition meets the criteria in the SSA Blue Book listing for bone, joint and muscle disorders
• Your condition prevents you from doing your past jobs
• You can adjust to other types of work

It can be challenging to get approved for disability due solely to osteoporosis, but it is possible in severe cases. You typically need frequent fractures and significant impact on physical abilities.

Steps in the Disability Application Process

Follow these steps when applying for disability benefits:

1. Apply for benefits - You can apply online at www.ssa.gov or make an appointment at your local SSA office. Be prepared to provide medical records.
2. Application review - The SSA will review your application and medical documentation to verify your disability and inability to work.
3. Medical exam - The SSA may require you to undergo an exam by an independent physician if additional medical evidence is needed.
4. Application decision - The SSA will decide whether to approve or deny your disability claim based on all evidence provided.
5. Appeal if denied - If your claim is denied initially, you can appeal within 60 days to request reconsideration.

Having an experienced disability lawyer assist with your claim can significantly increase your chances of approval without the need for a hearing. A lawyer will ensure all medical evidence is properly presented.

Receiving Social Security Disability Benefits

If approved, you will receive a monthly income supplement and access to Medicare health insurance after a 24-month qualifying period. The benefit amount depends on your past earnings history. The average SSDI benefit amount for 2023 is $1,358 per month.

Treatment and Prevention of Osteoporosis

While osteoporosis is incurable, the progression of bone loss can be slowed through medications and lifestyle measures. Early prevention and treatment are key to maintaining bone health.

Medication Options

The main medications used to treat osteoporosis include:

• Bisphosphonates - Alendronate, risedronate, and zoledronic acid help slow bone breakdown
• RANKL inhibitors - Denosumab reduces fracture risk by inhibiting cells that cause bone loss
• Hormone therapy - Estrogen therapy can help maintain bone density in postmenopausal women
• Parathyroid hormone - Teriparatide stimulates new bone formation

Lifestyle Changes for Bone Health

Non-medical ways to prevent and manage osteoporosis include:

• Get adequate calcium - 1,000-1,200 mg daily through dairy, green leafy vegetables, fortified foods
• Ensure sufficient vitamin D - 800-1,000 IU per day to aid calcium absorption
• Do weight-bearing and resistance exercises - Stimulate bone formation
• Avoid tobacco use and excess alcohol - These undermine bone health
• Improve posture and balance - Reduce fall risk
• Use assistive devices as needed - Canes, walkers, handrails to prevent falls

Osteoporosis can significantly impact quality of life and ability to work. While disability benefits are not easy to obtain, severe cases with multiple fractures may qualify. Staying active, taking medications as prescribed, and consuming a balanced diet with calcium and vitamin D can help maintain bone health and prevent debilitating fractures.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.