What is Pseudarthrosis?
Pseudarthrosis describes a condition where a bone fracture fails to heal properly, creating what is often referred to as a “false joint.” Instead of the broken bone segments fusing together, they remain separate and movable, mimicking the articulation of a natural joint. This non-union can occur in various bones throughout the body, but it is frequently observed in long bones, such as the tibia or femur, and in the spine following spinal fusion surgery.
Several factors can contribute to the development of pseudarthrosis. Insufficient blood supply to the fracture site can impede proper bone regeneration. Infections at the fracture site can also disrupt the healing process, as can inadequate immobilization during the initial healing period, allowing excessive movement between the bone fragments. Complex fractures, particularly those with significant bone loss, also increase the risk of this complication.
How Pseudarthrosis Impacts Daily Life
The presence of pseudarthrosis can significantly affect an individual’s daily life due to persistent symptoms and functional limitations. Chronic pain is a common complaint, often localized to the site of the non-union, and can range from a dull ache to sharp, debilitating discomfort. This instability at the fracture site can lead to limited range of motion in the affected limb or spinal segment, making simple movements challenging.
Weakness in the surrounding muscles is also frequently observed. These combined effects can severely impede the ability to perform everyday tasks, such as walking, lifting, or even sitting for extended periods. The impact can extend to work capacity, social engagement, and overall quality of life.
Pseudarthrosis and Disability Recognition
Pseudarthrosis can be recognized as a disability, but this is not automatic; it depends on the severity of the functional limitations it imposes. Disability, in a legal or administrative context, typically refers to an inability to engage in substantial gainful activity due to a medically determinable physical or mental impairment. This impairment must be expected to result in death or have lasted, or be expected to last, for a continuous period of not less than 12 months. Therefore, the diagnosis of pseudarthrosis alone is generally insufficient for disability recognition.
Evaluation for disability status focuses on the medical evidence detailing the functional impact of the condition. The Social Security Administration (SSA) assess how pseudarthrosis affects an individual’s ability to perform basic work activities, such as standing, walking, lifting, or carrying. The SSA’s “Blue Book,” or Listings of Impairments, provides specific criteria for various conditions, with musculoskeletal disorders like pseudarthrosis often falling under Section 1.00. This section outlines the objective medical findings and functional limitations required for a condition to meet a listing, such as significant compromise of a nerve root or spinal cord, or the inability to ambulate effectively.
The determination hinges on whether the pseudarthrosis, through its pain, instability, or loss of function, prevents an individual from performing not only their past work but also any other type of work that exists in significant numbers in the national economy. Comprehensive medical documentation, including imaging studies, physician notes detailing limitations, and treatment history, is essential. The documented inability to work due to the condition’s impact, rather than just the diagnosis, determines disability status.
Steps for Disability Claims
For individuals considering a disability claim due to pseudarthrosis, gathering comprehensive medical records is essential. This includes detailed diagnostic reports, such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs, confirming the non-union and any associated complications. A complete history of treatments, including surgeries, physical therapy, and pain management, demonstrates the persistence and severity of the condition.
Physician’s notes are important, as they should clearly document the functional limitations imposed by the pseudarthrosis, such as restrictions on lifting, bending, or standing. These notes help illustrate how the condition prevents an individual from performing work-related activities. Vocational assessments may also be beneficial to demonstrate how the physical limitations translate into an inability to perform various jobs.
The application process involves submitting these medical records along with detailed forms outlining work history and daily activities. While the initial application can be complex, denials are common. Many successful claims are approved after an appeal, and seeking professional guidance from a disability attorney or advocate can significantly improve the chances of a favorable outcome.