Gout
Helping clients prove how gout impacts daily life and work
Understanding Gout
Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the body. It leads to painful swelling in the joints, most commonly in the feet, toes, ankles, knees, and hands.
Gout attacks, also called flares, can be sudden and extremely painful, making it difficult to walk, stand, or use your hands. Chronic gout can also lead to lasting joint damage and mobility issues.
At Eric Buchanan and Associates, we understand that gout is more than temporary pain. Frequent flares and chronic inflammation can make full time work difficult to maintain.
Common Symptoms of Gout
- Severe joint pain and swelling
- Stiffness after resting
- Redness or heat in affected joints
- Hypersensitivity to touch
Symptoms can last for days or weeks and may return without warning, limiting productivity and attendance.
How Insurance Companies Deny Gout Disability Claims
- Medical Records: Insurers argue symptoms are intermittent
- Treatment Response: Denied if medication improves symptoms
- Doctor’s Opinions: Pain complaints minimized
- Vocational Analysis: Claims you can still do sedentary work
Insurance companies often ignore the severity of flares, swelling, and mobility limits. They may admit gout exists but deny benefits by focusing only on good days and ignoring disabling flare ups.