Denver Arthritis Disability Attorney
Arthritis is characterized by inflammation of one or more joints. Symptoms include joint pain and stiffness, and these symptoms generally worsen as you age. There are several different types of arthritis, affecting people in different ways. The types of arthritis that our office has seen include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with our skilled arthritis disability attorney at McDermott Law, LLC.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis and occurs when the cartilage on the ends of the bones wears down over time. The most commonly affected parts of the body are the hips, hands, neck, lower back, and knees. Symptoms include pain, stiffness, loss of flexibility, and bone spurs, among others.
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease, and as the condition worsens, many people become less able to perform activities they once handled with ease. The pain can often be unbearable and make it nearly impossible to sit, stand, or walk for extended periods. This is especially true for individuals with back conditions, as the added stress on the spine and surrounding muscles can amplify discomfort. The combination of joint and back pain can make even simple movements, such as bending or lifting, extremely difficult, further limiting a person’s ability to engage in daily activities or maintain a regular work schedule.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder, meaning the immune system attacks its own tissues. It typically involves the small joints in the hands and feet and affects the lining of the joints.
Sufferers of rheumatoid arthritis commonly experience swelling in the affected joints, along with stiffness and pain. These symptoms can result in joint deformity. In addition to painful joints, rheumatoid arthritis can also cause fevers and fatigue. Repetitive movements can lead to inflammation in the hands and wrists, making everyday activities difficult. If the lower-extremity joints are involved, standing and walking may become very challenging due to pain and swelling.
Psoriatic Arthritis
Psoriatic arthritis affects people who have psoriasis — a skin condition that presents with red, itchy patches. The main symptoms are joint pain, swelling, and stiffness, which can sometimes occur before the appearance of the skin condition.
Symptoms may affect any part of the body, including the fingertips and spine. There is no cure for psoriatic arthritis, so treatment focuses on managing symptoms. People with psoriatic arthritis demonstrate many of the same disabling factors as those with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, making it extremely difficult to function consistently in the workplace. In Denver, where the climate can fluctuate significantly and the altitude may place additional strain on joints, individuals with psoriatic arthritis may experience even greater challenges. These environmental factors, combined with the symptoms of the condition, can further impact mobility, flexibility, and overall work performance.
Contact Us
For more information about your legal rights and entitlements, along with a professional evaluation of your potential case, set up a free Review of Denied Claims by calling us at 303-964-1800, or complete our contact form. We offer free Review of Denied Claims and represent clients throughout the Denver area and the Rocky Mountain region.