Whether you might work with osteoporosis depends on many things.
Early on, most people dont know they haveosteoporosis.
But its a progressive disease that can become debilitating.It can present challenges in all areas of life.
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As a result, with osteoporosis, you’re at higher risk ofbone fractures.
Osteoporosishas a reputation as a “silent disease” because early on, most people don’t have obvioussymptoms.
Because bone deterioration is a gradual process, much depends on thestage of osteoporosisyou’re in.
You’re not obligated to tell your employer that you have osteoporosis.
You will have to tell them about your condition if you plan to ask for reasonable accommodations.
This includes physical changes as well as accessible and assistive technologies that could help a person with osteoporosis.
Alternating between sitting and standing or taking quick walk breaks may help.
When taking pain medication, don’t take more than the recommended dose.
Some prescription medications can affect your performance and cause safety issues, such as sleepiness.
It’s important to discuss this with your healthcare provider in advance to see if there are alternatives.
Otherwise, you may want to ask your employer for accommodations.
Managing pain on your off hours can help on the job.
Avoiding Fractures
Avoiding fractures means taking steps to reduce slips, trips, and falls.
If you fall, it may be difficult to get back up without help.
Keep a cell phone with you or get amedical alert system.
It’s a listing of impairments considered severe enough to stop you from working.
It also covers the medical criteria needed to get approved for benefits.
Osteoporosis is not listed, but there are considerations for frequent, complex, and nonhealing bone fractures.
You must have significant limitations that prevent you from basic work-related activities.
Summary
Many people with osteoporosis continue to work.
You don’t have to tell your employer about your health unless you’re asking for workplace accommodations.
As the disease progresses, it can be disabling.
In some cases, you may not be able to keep working.
If that happens, you could apply for Social Security Disability benefits.
It’s a process that involves documenting your work history and your medical condition.
Bone fractures can lead to severe complications and poor quality of life.
Hip fractures are also associated with a 2.5 times increase in future fractures.
People with hip fractures have a 15% to 20% increased mortality rate within a year.
There are certain situations in which you’ve got the option to work and still receive benefits.
Also, be sure to report any changes in employment.
Your healthcare provider can advise you based on your individual circumstances.
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