Unfortunately I come across cases that sometimes are the result of a hip replacement surgery that has not turned out very well for a host of reasons, I am often asked by clients that phone me, “is there a disability listing for a bad hip replacement”? The answer is yes there is, it is a listing called, Reconstructive surgery or surgical arthrodesis of a major weight bearing joint, in terms we all understand a little better, this listing is referring to things such as hip replacement surgery.
One of the key factors to be noted for disability listed under Social Security for hip surgery is the actual notes, medical records are kept very well on hip replacements, even down to the serial number of the hip replacement that was used in your procedure. As noted above, there are a host of reasons that things are not the same with a replaced hip, there are so many, and many reasons unique to each person.
In regards to what is required under the listing, the other key factor is, are you expected to be ambulatory, ie moving about, within the 12 months after surgery? I have found that most hip replacement individuals are not very ambulatory within 12 months, and it seems that the older the claimant, the less likely they will be up and about in 12 months.
Many claimants have commented to me that even when sitting for a period of time it becomes painful, this is important in Social Security Disability claims, because it could possibly eliminate you from being able to do even sedentary work like taking up tickets at a theatre or toll booth. When a hip replacement fails it can be a life changing event for you and your family.
If you need assistance in your disability claim, please feel free to phone the office Monday through Friday at toll free 1 (877) 271-2633 or local at (615) 308-2633.
Daniel L. McMurtry, Esq.