Safety tips to take if denied social security disability for various problems such as bad knees, back, plantar fasciitis or peripheral neuropathy

A high percentage of cases applying for Social Security Disability are denied. It is estimated that at least two thirds of applicants are initially denied benefits. When this occurs, one can at least try to minimize the effect their  impairment causes.  For instance, many individuals claim difficulty with standing and walking due to pain in the knees and back, pain in their feet secondary to peripheral neuropathy or plantar fasciitis. Others report problems using their hand when due to carpal tunnel syndrome. A stroke can be devastating.  All of these situations can seriously affect one’s ability to perform activities of daily living. 

There are ways to improve your ability to walk or at least prevent worsening if certain measures are taken. One important way is to avoid conditions in and around the home which can result in injuries. 

Falls pose one of the greatest risks for injury which can result in fractures to various areas of the body. Brain trauma is especially critical and may result in death. The purpose of this article is to provide useful information about hazards in the home in order to avoid serious accidents. There are a number of measures one can take to make for a safer home. 

1. Wear appropriate shoes with non-slip soles like these slip resistant shoes from Skechers in and outside the home. Avoid walking in slippers or socks as well as wearing high heels. Choose shoes with low heels that can be laced up in order to provide better support. Also, avoid wearing long, loose clothing which can drag on the floor. 

2. Eliminate clutter on the floor such as electrical cords with a  floor electrical cord concealer  and avoid using loose throw rugs which one can trip on.  

3. Adequate lighting is very important and should be located throughout the home. A dimmable bedside lamp should be easy to reach and turned on if you have to use the bathroom at night or for any other reason.

4. Stairways should have handrails and be free of clutter.

5. The bathroom should have a non-slip mat in the shower and bathtub . Install grab bars in shower , suction cup grab bars in the bathtub and adjustable height safety bars near the toilet . If possible, convert a step-in shower into a walk-in tub to make it easier to bathe. Nightlights should also be located in the bathroom.

6. Get up slowly from a chair before attempting to walk. Your blood pressure may drop causing you to become lightheaded if you arise too quickly. 

7. Discuss medications with your doctor. Some may produce side effects which can result in dizziness affecting your balance and increase chances of falling. 

8. Poor eyesight is an important factor resulting in accidents. You should see an ophthalmologist to make sure your vision is satisfactory.

9. Improving your overall physical condition is important in preventing general muscle weakness. Stiff joints can be painful. Stretching regularly can reduce stiffness. A program of exercise to improve muscle strength and balance is important. Discuss possible exercises with your doctor about ways to improve balance and strength. A physical therapist can play a very important role. 

For those suffering from arthritis and various orthopedic problems, it is important that besides taking medications you should consider other measures such as using knee braces for joint support. This can lessen pain and provide more support so as to reduce the risk of the knee giving way resulting in a fall. Of course, if you have great difficulty walking a cane like this lightweight, adjustable cane or walker may be needed.  There are many knee braces on the market which provide different levels of support and come in various materials. 

I hope this information provides you with useful guidelines in lessening the chance of injuries which could worsen an already significant orthopedic problem.  My suggestions are directly mainly toward those who are denied Social Security disability. However, they should be useful even if you are granted benefits.