Excellent video. I only have one thing to say. If, for example, the exact definition of the word excruciating could determine the outcome of such an important decision in a patient’s life, then it makes sense to me that the examiner should make sure the patient understands the definition of the word excruciating. Some people may not fully understand the exact definition of excruciating. Therefore, the examinee may give an incorrect response due to misunderstanding the definition of the word excruciating without the intent to exaggerate. It would be helpful if the examiner would make sure the patient knows the exact meaning of the word excruciating before passing judgment on such a crucial life changing decision.
Thanks Doc, been on SSDI since 2020, and it’s not fun. I’ve got RA…..with Anklyosing Spondylitis. Sucks to be at home, with a 90% reduction in income, but I couldn’t make an 8 hour day, barely an 8 minute day. Hands are useless, spine is constant, left knee locks up, and left ankle is always painful. I’d trade this crap for working my great job I had to leave
Dr Foster, thank you for this helpful video - it’s great that it’s focused specifically on arthritis. And not just rheumatoid, but the other kinds as well :)
Dear Healthcare Professionals, I've faced more than just physical disabilities; my journey includes over 15 years of homelessness, exacerbated by communication challenges and lack of consistent medical care. This has been a result of not only my conditions but also the variability in symptoms and previous medical misdiagnoses. It's crucial for SSI/SSDI exam doctors to understand the day-to-day reality of patients like myself. Symptoms can fluctuate significantly-what's possible one day might not be the next. The dialogue between doctors and patients needs to encompass the full scope of an individual's experience over time, not just snapshots. This approach can bridge the gap between clinical assessments and the lived realities of those with chronic, variable conditions."
Hi Dr. Foster thank you for this video. Im 57 & was just diagnosed with RA having tested positive in a blood test. Ive been pushing for a full knee replacement as I was approved for 1 last yr. (this through my VA healthcare) An MRI & x rays were enough for an orthopedic surgeon to tell me that I could get the surgery - again this was last yr. I put it off due to financial needs. Now my ortho Dr. said lets get the RA addressed then revisit the knee replacement. I quit my job for the pain (Carpenter of 25 yrs). Im hoping the rheumatologist will address the pain in my knees shoulders & wrists relatively quickly as Im living off of savings now.
You may well qualify for disability. Postives for you include: age over 55, proven serious illness, having specialists' opinions (orthopedic surgeon and rheumatologist). Best wishes whatever you do. Keep in mind - you could be approved for disability, receive payments, then have knee surgery and not be disabled - payments would end, but you would keep the payments you received up until you are no longer disabled, as long as your period of disability was 12 months or longer.
Specialist reports are especially important for Social Security. When you print out the form, look at each of the work-related activities, and decide which ones you have difficulty doing due to your condition, and which ones you can't do at all. It's very important you communicated those difficulties to Social Security.
I agree! It’s very helpful. And I’m not even going to be looking for a Social Security type of disability. It’s through something different. At the forum is immensely helpful and letting me know what keywords and phrases that I, and my doctor(s) , need to use.
I have scoliosis and it's very painful,I also have nerve root damage,but my right shoulder and upper arm is very painful.i couldn't move my arm for an hour after trying to close my car door the pain was horrendous.its still painful now but nothing compared to closing car door.i had to wait an hr before I could cope with driving home Lesley England
Would you please consider making a connective tissue disease (e.g., SLE, MCTD, etc.) video? Between the medications (e.g., methotrexate, etc.), rashes/nodules, aches, fatigue, and many other symptoms, it would be great to get your thoughts on how to successfully present the disabling symptoms associated with a connective tissue disease.
I’m 46, postal worker for 25 year and 2.5 of military service. My left knee is bone to bone and my right very little cartilage with reduce range of motion. I’m thinking of applying for disability.
GOOD plan. Closer you are to 50 the best. 1st time I considered was over 10yrs ago. Now 54 just had SSA medical exam after 3.5yrs (2021) So, since the process can possibly take 2-3yrs.APPLY Contact an ssdi attorney for advice. Best to You!
Can you do a video on Parkinson's Disease, and other chronic disease? I searched through your videos, but have not found anything so far. Also, I have a virtual exam. What does that mean? I would expect its not negative, since my application is still active.
I haven't done a video on Parkinson's disease or other neurological diseases, but I will! Parkinson's definitely affects work-related abilities, such as the ability to stand, walk, lift, carry, handle objects, speak, balance, and sometimes memory and thinking. Before your exam think of every way the Parkinson's makes it difficult for you to work. That's what you want Social Security to know. Also, medications for Parkinson's sometimes have side effects that interfere with working. Medication side effects count as part of your disability, be sure to mention them. A virtual exam means it's done over the internet, instead of in person, via video call. I've never done them, I've always done in-person exams, so I'm not familiar with them. Here's a link to Social Security's Listing of Impairments for Parkinson's: www.ssa.gov/disability/professionals/bluebook/11.00-Neurological-Adult.htm#11_06
@@DisabilityExamscan you do a video on ppl with RSD / crps like myself please , or if you have please post a link .this condition doesn’t show on tests . I also have several other issues from crps including pots . Permanent handicapped placard . The main issue is severe intractable pain in my entire left leg , on many pain meds that cause severe brain fog.
I have a walker , but no wheelchair because I can’t afford one .I applied for one through my drs but it’s going to take time for Medicaid to pay for it .I use wheelchair escorts for appts or at the stores if they have it available .or I will walk without a device on occasion . I am truly is severe pain . I can’t sit or stand for any period of time I’m up and down , severe muscle spasms , Sweating & shaking get labeled as anxious . It was easier to just go to work than deal with this .
If I feel like a knife is in the thoracic area, deep pain that truly is excruciating, especially standing up, how do I describe it? Stabbing deep pains?
Describing pain is often difficult. I think you did a pretty good job describing it in your question. And, there's nothing wrong with saying a pain "Is hard to describe", because pain often IS hard to describe. For a doctor, the significant things about a pain are 1. where is it located 2. does it spread anywhere 3. what does it feel like 4. what makes it worse 5. what makes it better 6. are there any other symptoms that come on with the pain
@@DisabilityExams thank you. It has started shooting aches down my left arm, now. My doctor says the bone spurs on my ribs to the spine could be a reason it’s spread. Nerves and muscle. Might only be surgical options, but not without risks. Can I possibly qualify?
I’m 31 and use a cane to climb the stairs and have limited range of motion in my knee. I believe my ortho doctor said 40 percent range and my leg constantly gives out. I’ve fallen down a hill twice, my dad’s stairs and at my last job. I’m scared I’m going to get hurt again or destroy my knee completely. Should I apply?
I'm afraid you probably would not qualify. People under age 50 have to "meet a listing", which means they have to meet the criteria in Social Security's Listing of Impairments. Here is a link for listing that would apply to you: www.ssa.gov/disability/professionals/bluebook/1.00-Musculoskeletal-Adult.htm#1_18
So when i told social security that i am having to go into full hip surgery due to limited movements and how its hard for me to work full-time work doing what i am trained to do i still got denied. I am a tire tech so bending stooping lifting is hsrd for me to do
@@DisabilityExamsThank you Sir 🙏 I appreciate your time and explaining what to look for in my up coming exam. Thank you for also caring for the chunky possum😊
Excellent video. I only have one thing to say. If, for example, the exact definition of the word excruciating could determine the outcome of such an important decision in a patient’s life, then it makes sense to me that the examiner should make sure the patient understands the definition of the word excruciating. Some people may not fully understand the exact definition of excruciating. Therefore, the examinee may give an incorrect response due to misunderstanding the definition of the word excruciating without the intent to exaggerate. It would be helpful if the examiner would make sure the patient knows the exact meaning of the word excruciating before passing judgment on such a crucial life changing decision.
Thanks Doc, been on SSDI since 2020, and it’s not fun. I’ve got RA…..with Anklyosing Spondylitis. Sucks to be at home, with a 90% reduction in income, but I couldn’t make an 8 hour day, barely an 8 minute day. Hands are useless, spine is constant, left knee locks up, and left ankle is always painful. I’d trade this crap for working my great job I had to leave
Dr Foster, thank you for this helpful video - it’s great that it’s focused specifically on arthritis. And not just rheumatoid, but the other kinds as well :)
Can you do video on lupus/ SLE and other auto immune connective tissues conditions?
Trigger finger. I got that exact symptom.
Dear Healthcare Professionals,
I've faced more than just physical disabilities; my journey includes over 15 years of homelessness, exacerbated by communication challenges and lack of consistent medical care. This has been a result of not only my conditions but also the variability in symptoms and previous medical misdiagnoses. It's crucial for SSI/SSDI exam doctors to understand the day-to-day reality of patients like myself. Symptoms can fluctuate significantly-what's possible one day might not be the next. The dialogue between doctors and patients needs to encompass the full scope of an individual's experience over time, not just snapshots. This approach can bridge the gap between clinical assessments and the lived realities of those with chronic, variable conditions."
Communicating how your symptoms fluctuate, and your day-to-day reality is your responsibility, because doctors can't read your mind.
Hi Dr. Foster thank you for this video. Im 57 & was just diagnosed with RA having tested positive in a blood test. Ive been pushing for a full knee replacement as I was approved for 1 last yr. (this through my VA healthcare) An MRI & x rays were enough for an orthopedic surgeon to tell me that I could get the surgery - again this was last yr. I put it off due to financial needs. Now my ortho Dr. said lets get the RA addressed then revisit the knee replacement. I quit my job for the pain (Carpenter of 25 yrs). Im hoping the rheumatologist will address the pain in my knees shoulders & wrists relatively quickly as Im living off of savings now.
You may well qualify for disability. Postives for you include: age over 55, proven serious illness, having specialists' opinions (orthopedic surgeon and rheumatologist). Best wishes whatever you do. Keep in mind - you could be approved for disability, receive payments, then have knee surgery and not be disabled - payments would end, but you would keep the payments you received up until you are no longer disabled, as long as your period of disability was 12 months or longer.
Thank you for the information. I am going to print out a copy of the form. I will ask my doctors if they will fill it out. I see a few specialists.
Specialist reports are especially important for Social Security. When you print out the form, look at each of the work-related activities, and decide which ones you have difficulty doing due to your condition, and which ones you can't do at all. It's very important you communicated those difficulties to Social Security.
I agree! It’s very helpful. And I’m not even going to be looking for a Social Security type of disability. It’s through something different. At the forum is immensely helpful and letting me know what keywords and phrases that I, and my doctor(s) , need to use.
Very informative. Thank you!
You're welcome! Any suggestions for future videos would be appreciated.
I have scoliosis and it's very painful,I also have nerve root damage,but my right shoulder and upper arm is very painful.i couldn't move my arm for an hour after trying to close my car door the pain was horrendous.its still painful now but nothing compared to closing car door.i had to wait an hr before I could cope with driving home Lesley England
Would you please consider making a connective tissue disease (e.g., SLE, MCTD, etc.) video? Between the medications (e.g., methotrexate, etc.), rashes/nodules, aches, fatigue, and many other symptoms, it would be great to get your thoughts on how to successfully present the disabling symptoms associated with a connective tissue disease.
That's a good idea. I've seen some people with autoimmune diseases who were seriously disabled.
Thank you for sharing the information.
I’m 46, postal worker for 25 year and 2.5 of military service. My left knee is bone to bone and my right very little cartilage with reduce range of motion. I’m thinking of applying for disability.
GOOD plan. Closer you are to 50 the best. 1st time I considered was over 10yrs ago. Now 54 just had SSA medical exam after 3.5yrs (2021) So, since the process can possibly take 2-3yrs.APPLY Contact an ssdi attorney for advice. Best to You!
@@dionesanderson7476age discrimination they use and are biased to younger people with arthritis
I have pain in my spine, knees, and right hip.
But I also have a high pain tolerance...
Can you do a video on Parkinson's Disease, and other chronic disease?
I searched through your videos, but have not found anything so far. Also, I have a virtual exam. What does that mean? I would expect its not negative, since my application is still active.
I haven't done a video on Parkinson's disease or other neurological diseases, but I will! Parkinson's definitely affects work-related abilities, such as the ability to stand, walk, lift, carry, handle objects, speak, balance, and sometimes memory and thinking. Before your exam think of every way the Parkinson's makes it difficult for you to work. That's what you want Social Security to know. Also, medications for Parkinson's sometimes have side effects that interfere with working. Medication side effects count as part of your disability, be sure to mention them. A virtual exam means it's done over the internet, instead of in person, via video call. I've never done them, I've always done in-person exams, so I'm not familiar with them.
Here's a link to Social Security's Listing of Impairments for Parkinson's: www.ssa.gov/disability/professionals/bluebook/11.00-Neurological-Adult.htm#11_06
@@DisabilityExamscan you do a video on ppl with RSD / crps like myself please , or if you have please post a link .this condition doesn’t show on tests . I also have several other issues from crps including pots . Permanent handicapped placard . The main issue is severe intractable pain in my entire left leg , on many pain meds that cause severe brain fog.
I have a walker , but no wheelchair because I can’t afford one .I applied for one through my drs
but it’s going to take time for Medicaid to pay for it .I use wheelchair escorts for appts or at the stores if they have it available .or I will walk without a device on occasion .
I am truly is severe pain . I can’t sit or stand for any period of time I’m up and down , severe muscle spasms , Sweating & shaking get labeled as anxious .
It was easier to just go to work than deal with this .
If I feel like a knife is in the thoracic area, deep pain that truly is excruciating, especially standing up, how do I describe it? Stabbing deep pains?
Describing pain is often difficult. I think you did a pretty good job describing it in your question. And, there's nothing wrong with saying a pain "Is hard to describe", because pain often IS hard to describe. For a doctor, the significant things about a pain are 1. where is it located 2. does it spread anywhere 3. what does it feel like 4. what makes it worse 5. what makes it better 6. are there any other symptoms that come on with the pain
@@DisabilityExams thank you. It has started shooting aches down my left arm, now. My doctor says the bone spurs on my ribs to the spine could be a reason it’s spread. Nerves and muscle. Might only be surgical options, but not without risks. Can I possibly qualify?
What about chronic traumatic mid foot arthritis bone on bone and I'm in my 50s both feet
What work related abilities does it limit? How severely? That is what will determine whether you will be approved for disability.
My hands, feet and elbows are deformed. I cannot walk and ny deformities are visible. .. from RA.
What do you do when you have cts uts tests that show your in cronic pain an the doctor tells you its all in your head😮
I’m 31 and use a cane to climb the stairs and have limited range of motion in my knee. I believe my ortho doctor said 40 percent range and my leg constantly gives out. I’ve fallen down a hill twice, my dad’s stairs and at my last job. I’m scared I’m going to get hurt again or destroy my knee completely. Should I apply?
I'm afraid you probably would not qualify. People under age 50 have to "meet a listing", which means they have to meet the criteria in Social Security's Listing of Impairments. Here is a link for listing that would apply to you: www.ssa.gov/disability/professionals/bluebook/1.00-Musculoskeletal-Adult.htm#1_18
So when i told social security that i am having to go into full hip surgery due to limited movements and how its hard for me to work full-time work doing what i am trained to do i still got denied. I am a tire tech so bending stooping lifting is hsrd for me to do
That sure is a chubby little critter. ❤
He's well fed - prefers the hot dog chunks! The opossum was what got me started feeding the wild animals.
@@DisabilityExamsThank you Sir 🙏 I appreciate your time and explaining what to look for in my up coming exam. Thank you for also caring for the chunky possum😊
Does SS take into consideration an FCE report from an orthopedic?