If you’ve had major joint surgery—or you’re living with severe joint pain and instability—you may wonder whether Social Security Disability benefits are available to you. The answer is often yes, but only if your condition meets very specific medical requirements.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) has detailed rules called “Listings.” Two important ones for people with serious joint conditions are Listing 1.17 and Listing 1.18. These listings focus on how joint problems affect your ability to function day to day—not just what your diagnosis is.
Here’s what Illinois applicants should know.
Listing 1.17: Reconstructive Surgery or Joint Fusion of a Weight-Bearing Joint
Listing 1.17 applies to people who have had reconstructive surgery or surgical arthrodesis (fusion) of a major weight-bearing joint, such as a hip, knee, or ankle.
To qualify under this listing, all three requirements must be met.
A. History of Reconstructive Surgery or Joint Fusion
You must have medical records showing that you underwent:
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Joint replacement surgery, or
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Surgical fusion (arthrodesis) of a major weight-bearing joint.
This includes procedures done to address arthritis, fractures, degenerative joint disease, or other serious conditions.
B. Long-Term Physical Limitations
Your joint condition must cause serious physical limitations that:
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Have lasted at least 12 months, or
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Are expected to last at least 12 months.
This is critical. Social Security does not award disability for short-term recovery periods alone.
C. Medical Need for an Assistive Device
You must have medical documentation showing that you need one of the following to get around:
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A walker
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Two canes or two crutches
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A wheeled and seated mobility device (such as a wheelchair or scooter) that requires both hands to operate
It’s not enough to say you use these devices—your doctor must clearly document that they are medically necessary.
Listing 1.18: Abnormality of a Major Joint in Any Extremity
Listing 1.18 covers people with severe joint problems even if surgery was not performed, or if problems continue after surgery.
To meet this listing, all four requirements below must be documented.
A. Chronic Joint Pain or Stiffness
Your medical records must show ongoing joint pain or stiffness, not just occasional discomfort.
B. Abnormal Joint Movement or Stability
The affected joint must have:
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Abnormal motion
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Instability
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Or immobility
This could include joints that give out, lock up, or cannot move normally.
C. Objective Medical Evidence of Joint Abnormality
Social Security requires proof of joint damage shown by:
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Physical examination findings (such as deformity, contracture, or joint fusion), or
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Imaging studies like X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans showing joint space narrowing, bone damage, or ankylosis.
D. Severe Functional Limitations Lasting 12 Months
Finally, your condition must significantly limit your ability to function for at least 12 months, and include one of the following:
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A documented medical need for:
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A walker
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Two canes or crutches
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A wheelchair or similar device using both hands
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OR
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Inability to effectively use one upper extremity, combined with the medical need for a one-handed assistive device
OR
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Inability to effectively use both upper extremities for work-related activities involving fine and gross movements
Why These Listings Matter for Illinois Disability Applicants
Many Social Security Disability claims are denied because:
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Medical records don’t clearly document functional limitations
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Doctors don’t explain why assistive devices are medically necessary
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Claimants focus on pain rather than how the condition limits daily activities
Listings 1.17 and 1.18 show that how your condition affects your ability to function is just as important as your diagnosis.
An experienced disability attorney can help ensure:
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Your medical records clearly match SSA requirements
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Missing documentation is identified early
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Your claim is presented in a way Social Security understands
Get Help With Your Social Security Disability Claim
Joint conditions can make even simple daily tasks difficult—and navigating Social Security Disability rules on your own can feel overwhelming. You don’t have to handle it alone.
If you have questions about your Social Security Disability claim, contact the Law Office of Jonathan W. Cole P.C. at (708) 529-7794 — Your Neighborhood Law Firm.
