The Social Security Administration will seek public comment this year on musculoskeletal disorders, as part of its ongoing housekeeping of its Listing of Impairments. This is the regulation that determines whether someone qualifies for Social Security disability benefits.
Musculoskeletal conditions are those affecting bones, muscles and ligaments, joints, nerves and tendons in the body. The conditions may be inflammatory or degenerative. Arthritis and degenerative disc disease fall into this category. When they reach a level of severity that makes it impossible to work any longer, Social Security Disability Insurance benefits may be granted.