After my hip replacement surgery, I applied for SSDI in New Hampshire. They denied me because I did not meet the joint surgery listing. I’m worried! Is there anything I can do?

Yes. After going through something as grueling and painful as a hip injury and hip replacement surgery, it’s heartbreaking to be denied. The financial support from the Social Security Administration (SSA) may be your last resort when it comes to getting the support you need after such a difficult experience. Getting approved can mean the difference between recovering quickly and suffering for years to come.

What to Do After Being Denied SSDI in New Hampshire After a Hip Replacement

The SSA requires that you demonstrate a few things when applying for SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) benefits after hip replacement surgery in New Hampshire. These include showing that you are unable to walk effectively and will not be able to walk effectively for at least a year. Walking effectively means the following:

• You don’t need a cane, walker, or crutches to get around.
• You can walk a block on an uneven surface at a reasonable speed.
• You can climb down a flight of stairs using only one handrail at a reasonable speed.
• You don’t need help traveling to and from work.
• You can walk extended distances on your own at a reasonable speed, such as through the grocery store or on your usual errands. 

If you can’t meet all these criteria but were still denied, you should appeal. However, even if you can say YES to each of these criteria, there are options available to you.

The SSA provides an alternative to meeting their stringent listings. This alternative, called the Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) form, allows you to show the specific ways your injury has limited your ability to work. This should include how you are limited in doing sedentary work as well as manual labor.

Filing these forms is not easy, which is why we encourage you to speak to the relevant professionals about it before submitting your request. Talk to your doctor about getting a detailed note about your condition, and then reach out to a New Hampshire Social Security disability lawyer at Keefe Disability Law to go over your application prior to submission. This will save you tremendous hassle and worry as you reapply.