Rheumatoid vs. Osteoarthritis: How SSDI Treats Each Type Differently
Reviewed by Gretchen Johnson, J.D., LL.M.
Not all arthritis is the same, and Social Security treats each type a little differently. Here's the short version.
| Type | Listing | What they look for |
|---|---|---|
| Rheumatoid | 14.09 | Ongoing joint swelling or deformity, or effects on 2+ body systems with fatigue, fever or weight loss |
| Osteoarthritis | 1.18 | Joint damage on imaging, plus needing a walker or two canes, or trouble using your arms for work |
Why does the type matter?
Rheumatoid arthritis affects your whole body, so fatigue and flares carry weight. Osteoarthritis claims lean more on joint damage and how well you move.
What if I have both?
List them all. Social Security looks at everything together.