Weight Bearing Joints

The weight bearing joints include the hip, knee, ankle and foot. The Social Security Regulations reflect the usual medical rule that the joints nearest to the core of the body are the most important. Thus, the hip bears the weight of the body, the knee is the shock absorber for the hip and the ankle and foot cushion the knee. Disability often results from the inability of these joints to function in a full range of motion or due to significant pain and loss of use that restrict lifting, standing, walking, bending and other physical activity needed for most work activity.