Ankle problems, usually injuries, can lead to a finding that you’re eligible for Social Security disability benefits. I say “can” because there’s no guarantee.

Example 1: A Qualifying Ankle Injury

Let me give an example of an ankle injury that might get a person on Social Security disability benefits. The claimant is a 56-year-old woman who broke her left ankle 10 years ago. She worked as a cashier in a grocery store. Shortly after the injury, she had surgery for the fracture.

Although the surgery healed, she continued to experience some pain. Initially, the pain wasn’t severe enough to stop her from working, but it worsened as she aged. She eventually returned to the doctor who had treated her for the original injury. The doctor ordered an X-ray, which revealed significant arthritis in her ankle—a common consequence of old fractures.

The doctor suggested two potential treatments: a partial ankle replacement or an ankle fusion. However, he didn’t strongly recommend either option. She decided to live with the condition, at least for now. Unfortunately, the pain has reached a point where she can no longer work.

This type of case could result in Social Security disability benefits, as the claimant’s condition limits her ability to perform her job and other work.

Example 2: A Non-Qualifying Ankle Injury

Now, let me give an example of an ankle injury that probably won’t qualify for Social Security disability benefits. The claimant is a 34-year-old man who tore his Achilles tendon while working as a kitchen helper. He underwent surgery for the torn tendon and physical therapy afterward.

Doctors informed him that it would be several months before he could return to his job. However, this claimant is less likely to win disability benefits for two reasons:

  1. Recovery is expected to take less than 12 months. Social Security requires that your disability has lasted or is expected to last at least 12 months.
  2. At 34 years old, he is considered relatively young. Even if he doesn’t fully recover, Social Security may determine that he could perform other jobs that don’t involve prolonged standing.

In such cases, it’s important to explore alternative options like workers’ compensation, especially if the injury occurred on the job.

Every Case Is Unique

While I’ve provided two examples, your situation is probably different. The details of your condition, age, and work history all play a role in whether you might qualify for Social Security disability benefits.

If you’re in North Carolina and want help with your Social Security disability claim, give us a call at Hall & Rouse, P.C. at 1-866-425-5347. We’d be happy to talk with you and guide you through the process.