Can I get Social Security disability for spinal osteoarthritis at 47 after 31 years of work?

I'm sorry you're dealing with this difficult situation. Yes, you can potentially qualify for SSDI with spinal osteoarthritis, but it depends on severity and documentation. The SSA evaluates back conditions under their musculoskeletal listings. You'll need strong medical evidence showing your condition prevents substantial gainful activity (SGA). Since you've worked 31 years, you likely have enough work credits. Make sure you have: - Medical imaging (MRIs, X-rays) showing spinal damage - Documentation of treatments tried and failed - Physician notes about functional limitations - Records showing progression of your condition Start gathering these records now, even while still working. The approval process can take months or years with appeals.

my aunt got disability for back problems but it took her THREE TRIES and like 2 years!!! everyone gets denied the first time its how the system works they just automatically say no. get a lawyer right away dont waste time.

I've been through this exact situation with my spine. Here's what you need to know: 1. You don't have to stop working completely to apply, but you can't earn above the SGA limit ($1,550/month in 2025) if you want to be approved. They look at your ability to do ANY full-time work, not just your current job. 2. The SSA Blue Book listing for spinal disorders (1.15) requires evidence of nerve root compression, spinal arachnoiditis, or lumbar spinal stenosis. If your osteoarthritis causes these complications, document it carefully. 3. Start the application process NOW while still working, but be strategic about reducing hours to stay under SGA if possible. 4. Request your medical records yourself - don't rely on SSA to get complete records. 5. Keep a daily pain journal documenting how your condition limits activities. I applied at 49 with degenerative disc disease and was approved after 14 months and one appeal.

THEY WILL DENY YOU!!!!! Social Security is DESIGNED to reject disabled people!!! I have 3 herniated discs and they denied me FOUR TIMES saying I could do "sedentary work" even though I can't sit for more than 20 minutes without excruciating pain!!! The system is BROKEN and they don't care about us. They just want us to DIE before they have to pay!!!!!

As others mentioned, the SSDI approval process for back conditions can be challenging but certainly possible. A few important points to consider: 1. With 31 years of work history, you're likely "insured" for SSDI purposes. You need 40 credits total with 20 earned in the last 10 years (if you're 47). 2. You may qualify under either the specific listing for spinal disorders (1.15) OR through a medical-vocational allowance if your condition doesn't precisely meet the listing but still prevents working. 3. The SSA will evaluate your "residual functional capacity" (RFC) - what you can still do despite your limitations. This is crucial for back pain cases. 4. Consider the Compassionate Allowance program if your condition is rapidly deteriorating. 5. Age can be a factor - at 47, you're approaching the "advanced age" category (50+) where vocational rules become somewhat more favorable. I'd recommend consulting with a disability attorney who specializes in SSDI claims. Many offer free consultations and only charge if you win your case (typically 25% of backpay, capped at $7,200).

have u tried calling the social security office directly? i tried for weeks and NEVER got through!!! always busy signal or disconnected!

One thing to consider - since you have a special needs child, there could potentially be additional benefits to consider beyond just SSDI for yourself. Depending on your child's condition and your household income, they might qualify for additional SSI benefits. Also, if you're approved for SSDI, your child might be eligible for auxiliary benefits as a dependent of a disabled worker. This is separate from any benefits they already receive. Make sure to ask about ALL possible benefit programs when you apply.

Everyone saying "document everything" is right!!! I got denied for my back problems cuz my doctor didnt write SPECIFIC things in my medical records about EXACTLY how limited I was. Like they need to write "patient cannot stand for more than 15 minutes" or "patient cannot lift more than 5 lbs" not just "patient has severe back pain." BE VERY CLEAR with your doctors and make sure they document EVERYTHING in detail!!!

Since you mentioned caring for your children's father - I want to add that caregiving responsibilities won't impact your SSDI eligibility (unlike SSI which is needs-based). SSDI is based solely on your work history and medical condition. Also, think carefully about timing. If you apply while still working above SGA levels ($1,550/month in 2025), you'll likely be denied automatically. However, there's a 5-month waiting period after onset of disability before SSDI benefits begin paying. This creates a difficult financial gap for many applicants. Some people gradually reduce hours if possible while building their medical case. Others use short-term disability through their employer (if available) during the application process. There's no perfect solution, but planning this transition carefully is important.

have you tried physical therapy? my cousin had really bad back problems and PT helped a lot. might be worth trying before giving up on working completely?

I wanted to address what happens during the SSDI application process specifically for spinal osteoarthritis: 1. After applying (online, by phone, or in person), SSA will review your work history to verify you're insured for SSDI. 2. Your case goes to your state's Disability Determination Services (DDS) where a medical consultant and examiner evaluate your medical evidence. 3. For osteoarthritis claims, they'll likely request detailed imaging and may send you for a consultative exam (CE) with their doctor. 4. They'll assess whether your condition meets Listing 1.15 OR if your limitations prevent all types of substantial work. 5. For back conditions, they look specifically at your ability to: sit/stand/walk for periods of time, lift/carry objects, bend/stoop/crouch, and maintain concentration despite pain. The approval rate for musculoskeletal conditions at the initial application stage is only about 35%, but increases to nearly 60% at the hearing level. Having a longitudinal medical history (consistent treatment over time) significantly improves your chances.

my friend with back problems got denied and she said her mistake was she was TOO HONEST in her application! She said she could grocery shop (with breaks) and they used that against her. Be careful what you say you can still do!!!!