Is a Shoulder Replacement Considered a Disability?
A shoulder replacement can qualify as a disability under Social Security Administration (SSA) rules if it significantly limits your ability to function and maintain a full-time job.
Shoulder replacements are typically performed when a major dysfunction in the shoulder joint causes severe pain, stiffness, or loss of mobility that cannot be improved through conservative treatment. Approval depends on several factors, including:
- The severity of your shoulder condition
- How long your limitations have lasted or are expected to last
- Medical documentation supporting your claim
- How the shoulder replacement affects your daily activities and ability to work
Many people are approved for disability after a shoulder replacement because post-surgical limitations, complications, or permanent restrictions prevent them from performing essential job duties.
Depending on your work history and financial situation, you may qualify for SSDI, SSI, or both. The SSA evaluates shoulder replacements as musculoskeletal impairments under the Blue Book.
Common Shoulder Replacement Symptoms the SSA Looks For
When reviewing disability claims related to shoulder replacement surgery, the SSA looks at symptoms that affect strength, mobility, endurance, and functional use of the upper extremities.Common symptoms include:
- Chronic shoulder pain
- Limited range of motion
- Weakness in the arm or shoulder
- Difficulty reaching, lifting, or carrying objects
- Stiffness or instability in the joint
Symptoms are especially relevant when they:
- Persist despite surgery and physical therapy
- Worsen with repeated use or activity
- Interfere with reliable, consistent functioning
The more persistent and function-limiting these symptoms are, the stronger a shoulder replacement disability claim becomes.
How a Shoulder Replacement Can Affect Your Ability to Work
A shoulder replacement can significantly interfere with many work-related activities, especially jobs that require upper-body strength, repetitive motion, or sustained positioning. Common work limitations include difficulty with:
- Reaching overhead or away from the body
- Lifting or carrying objects
- Pushing, pulling, or supporting weight
- Typing, writing, or operating equipment
- Remaining in one position for extended periods
Even sedentary jobs may be affected when pain, weakness, or limited range of motion prevents consistent performance.
Permanent Restrictions After Shoulder Replacement
A shoulder replacement surgery (also known as a total shoulder arthroplasty) is a procedure in which damaged portions of a person’s shoulder joint are replaced with artificial implants in order to restore mobility, range of rotation, and decrease pain. Shoulder replacements usually have a high
success rate in terms of their ability to manage and treat the severe stiffness and pain patients previously experienced—likely as a result of severe arthritis.
The full recovery from a shoulder replacement typically ranges from four to six months. That being said, some people’s recoveries can be longer and sometimes shoulder replacement surgery can leave patients facing lifelong restrictions.
The specifics of permanent restrictions after shoulder replacement surgery are dependent on the type of shoulder replacement procedure performed.
Typically, during the recovery period from shoulder replacement surgery, people are not allowed to lift anything over approximately 25 pounds, drive before approximately 12 weeks, rely on their shoulders for too many things, reach out too far with their recovering shoulder, or support themselves with their recovering shoulder.
However, it is critically important to note that these restrictions after shoulder replacement surgery are dependent on the individual patient and their doctor’s instructions. Patients should undoubtedly adhere to their doctor's plan of care and recovery timeline for them.
Finally, it is typically found to be the case that permanent restrictions after shoulder replacement surgery can be avoided if the patient adheres to and carefully follows their physical therapy routines and schedules as well as those of other recovery treatments.
SSA Medical Criteria for Physical Disabilities
The SSA evaluates shoulder replacement claims under Section 1.02 of the Blue Book, which covers Major Dysfunction of a Joint under Musculoskeletal Disorders (Section 1.00).
You’ll need to include extensive medical records and other documentation in your SSD application. Records should include:
- Statements from your physician(s) indicating the limitations imposed by your condition
- Notes from physical examinations showing limited range of motion in the shoulder joint
- Imaging results showing any organic defects in the shoulder joint and surrounding tissues
- Evidence that your condition has lasted, or is expected to last, 12 months of more
The SSA reviews imaging studies, physical exams, surgical records, treatment history, and reports describing how the condition affects daily activities.
If You Don’t Meet the SSA Listing After a Shoulder Replacement
Many applicants do not meet the exact requirements of the Blue Book listing but are still approved through a Medical Vocational Allowance (MVA), also known as an RFC-based approval.
In these cases, the SSA evaluates whether your shoulder replacement prevents you from performing any type of full-time work based on:
- Your physical limitations
- Your age
- Your education
- Your work history and transferable skills
You may qualify if you are unable to reliably perform tasks such as reaching, lifting, carrying, typing, operating equipment, or remaining in one position without frequent changes.
Qualifying for SSI or SSDI With a Shoulder Replacement
SSDI eligibility is based on your work history and earned work credits, while SSI is a needs-based program for individuals with limited income and resources. Strong shoulder replacement disability claims often include:
- Orthopedic evaluations
- Surgical and physical therapy records
- Imaging studies
- Documentation of failed treatments
- Evidence of long-term or permanent restrictions
- Work history showing reduced capacity
Initial denials are common, and many successful claims are approved during the appeals process.
How Much Does Disability Pay With a Shoulder Replacement?
Disability benefit amounts are not based on having a shoulder replacement itself, but on your work history and financial situation.
For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), monthly payments typically range from about $1,200 to $2,000 per month, depending on your prior earnings. Individuals with a long and steady work history may receive up to $4,000 or more per month.
For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), payments are income-based and capped at federal limits. In 2026, SSI benefits are up to approximately $990 per month for individuals and about $1,490 per month for couples, with some states offering additional supplements.
Some applicants may also qualify for back pay, which can total several thousand dollars or more, depending on when the SSA determines the disability began and how long the application or appeals process takes.
How to Apply for Disability With a Shoulder Replacement
Applying for disability after a shoulder replacement requires careful preparation and strong documentation. It is important to follow your doctor’s treatment plan and clearly document how your limitations affect daily activities and your ability to work.
Once your medical records are organized, you can apply for disability benefits:
- Online through the Social Security Administration’s website
- By phone with an SSA representative
- In person at your local Social Security office
When completing your application, be specific about how your shoulder replacement limits your ability to perform work-related tasks such as reaching, lifting, carrying, or maintaining consistent attendance.
Helpful documentation includes:
- Imaging studies and surgical reports
- Physical therapy records
- Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) forms completed by your physician
- Statements describing permanent restrictions after surgery
- Employer or family statements describing functional limitations
Submitting thorough and consistent documentation at the initial application stage can significantly improve your chances of approval and reduce delays in the process.
How a Disability Lawyer Can Help
Proving disability after a shoulder replacement can be challenging, especially since many joint replacements are considered successful.
A disability lawyer can help organize evidence, communicate with the SSA, obtain medical opinions, and handle appeals if your claim is denied. There are no upfront fees, disability attorneys are only paid if you win your case.
Get Help With Your Shoulder Replacement Disability Claim Today
If a shoulder replacement has left you with lasting pain, limitations, or permanent restrictions that prevent you from working, you may be eligible for Social Security disability benefits. You can start by requesting a free disability case evaluation to better understand your eligibility and next steps.
