Category: Arthritis

Wondering what are the 5 types of Psoriatic Arthritis? In this article, we’ll cover all the details and help shed light on resources that could be of help to those living with this condition.

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) stands at the crossroads of skin and joint health, affecting roughly 1 million people in the United States—about 30% of those with psoriasis. Psoriasis itself is known for causing a distinctive red, scaly rash, typically found on the elbows, knees, ankles, feet, and hands. But what about when this condition extends beyond the skin, leading to swollen, stiff, and painful joints? This is the realm of PsA, an autoimmune condition where the body mistakenly attacks healthy tissues.

So, what are the 5 types of psoriatic arthritis? 

Understanding these types is not just about medical terminology; it’s about grasping the nuances of PsA to better manage its impact. Each type presents its own set of symptoms and potential joint and tissue damage, emphasizing the importance of early and effective treatment.

In this article, we’ll cover the 5 types of psoriatic arthritis. This knowledge is key to treatment options and support systems, including beneficial resources like the Disability Tax Credit, designed to alleviate the journey of those living with PsA. 

Let’s dig into the many faces of psoriatic arthritis. 

The Basics of Psoriatic Arthritis

Before we get into the various types of Psoriatic Arthritis, let’s look under the hood a bit and explore what defines this condition in general. 

Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA) is a multifaceted condition characterized by inflammation that affects both the skin and joints, part of a group of diseases known as spondyloarthropathies. While it shares a close link with psoriasis—a skin condition marked by red, scaly rashes—it uniquely impacts the joints, leading to symptoms that range from mild discomfort to severe, debilitating pain.

What Defines Psoriatic Arthritis?

At its essence, PsA is an autoimmune disorder. This means the body’s immune system, which usually fights off infections and diseases, mistakenly attacks healthy tissues. In PsA, this misdirected immune response causes joint inflammation and overproduction of skin cells, leading to the joint and skin symptoms characteristic of the condition.

Common Symptoms

Psoriatic arthritis presents a blend of skin and joint symptoms. Joint symptoms include pain, swelling, and stiffness, which can affect any part of the body but commonly impact the hands, feet, neck, and spine. Skin symptoms are often seen as psoriasis patches, primarily on the elbows, knees, scalp, and around the navel and buttocks.

Unlike other forms of arthritis, PsA can cause what’s known as “sausage digits”—a painful swelling of an entire finger or toe. Additionally, it can lead to nail changes, such as pitting, thickening, or separation from the nail bed.

How It Differs From Other Arthritis Forms

Psoriatic arthritis is distinct from other types of arthritis in several ways:

• Psoriasis Link: The presence of skin psoriasis is a key differentiator, as not all forms of arthritis are accompanied by this skin condition.
• Pattern of Joint Involvement: PsA often affects joints asymmetrically (one side of the body), though it can also manifest symmetrically. This is in contrast to rheumatoid arthritis (RA), which typically involves symmetrical patterns.
• Enthesitis and Dactylitis: PsA can involve enthesitis (inflammation where tendons or ligaments insert into the bone) and dactylitis (severe swelling of fingers and toes), which are less common in other forms of arthritis.
• Nail Changes: PsA is more likely to involve nail changes than other arthritis types.

Understanding these basics of Psoriatic Arthritis is crucial for recognizing its symptoms, getting an accurate diagnosis, and starting on the path to effective management. With this foundation, we can now explore the five distinct types of Psoriatic Arthritis, each with its own set of challenges and treatment considerations.

The 5 Types of Psoriatic Arthritis

So, now, what are the 5 types of Psoriatic Arthritis?

#1 Asymmetric Oligoarticular Psoriatic Arthritis

This type is characterized by inflammation that doesn’t mirror itself on both sides of the body, typically affecting fewer than five joints. 

Common sites include the knees, hips, and joints in the hands and feet. 

The asymmetric nature means that if one knee is affected, the other might be completely fine. Symptoms often include localized pain, swelling, and a reduced range of motion, accompanied by red, scaly skin patches.

#2 Symmetric Polyarthritis

Affecting matching pairs of joints on both sides of the body, this type resembles rheumatoid arthritis but with a distinct link to psoriasis. It can impact any joint and often involves more than five joints, leading to widespread symptoms. 

Key identifiers, apart from the symmetric joint involvement, include significant morning stiffness and the potential for “sausage-like” swelling of fingers or toes, distinguishing it from other arthritis forms.

#3 Distal Interphalangeal Predominant (DIP)

This type primarily targets the distal joints closest to the nails in the fingers and toes, which is somewhat rare in other arthritis forms. 

Symptoms can include joint stiffness, pain, and swelling, alongside nail changes like pitting, discoloration, and separation from the nail bed. DIP PsA can sometimes be mistaken for osteoarthritis due to its focus on the distal joints.

#4 Spondylitis

Spondylitis within the context of PsA involves inflammation of the spinal column, leading to a range of symptoms from back pain and stiffness to reduced flexibility in the spine. It can also affect the neck, leading to similar discomfort and limited motion. In some cases, spondylitis PsA extends to the arms, hips, legs, or feet, linking joint inflammation with spinal discomfort.

#5 Arthritis Mutilans

The most severe but rarest form of PsA, arthritis mutilans, aggressively attacks the small joints at the ends of the hands and feet, potentially leading to significant deformities and disability. 

Symptoms include severe pain, joint stiffness, and a noticeable shortening of fingers or toes due to bone loss. Though affecting a small percentage of individuals, its impact on quality of life can be profound.

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Each type of Psoriatic Arthritis brings its own set of challenges and treatment needs, highlighting the importance of a precise diagnosis. Recognizing which type—or types—of PsA you’re dealing with can significantly influence your management strategy, including exploring support options like the Disability Tax Credit for financial assistance with treatment and accommodations.

Psoriatic Arthritis & Disability 

Is Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA) potentially disabling? Absolutely, it can be. 

The extent of its impact varies from person to person, heavily depending on the type of PsA, timely diagnosis, and treatment effectiveness. 

Physical Impact:

 At its worst, PsA can cause significant joint damage and mobility issues. Some forms, like arthritis mutilans, can lead to severe disability, affecting hands and feet functionality. Other types may primarily cause persistent pain and stiffness, complicating everyday activities. 

Beyond the Physical:

The repercussions of PsA extend beyond physical symptoms. It can strain mental health, employment, and social engagement, potentially leading to a diminished quality of life. 

The Role of Early Management: 

Recognizing and managing PsA early is key to reducing its disabling effects. While PsA poses challenges, tailored treatments can help manage symptoms, maintaining function and quality of life.

The Disability Tax Credit as a Lifeline

For individuals grappling with Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA), navigating daily life and managing treatment can be a daunting task, both physically and financially. This is where the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) comes into play—a vital financial support designed to alleviate some of the burdens for Canadians living with significant and prolonged disabilities.

What is the DTC?

The DTC is a non-refundable tax credit that reduces the amount of income tax that individuals with disabilities or their supporting persons owe, aiming to offset some of the higher costs associated with managing a disability. It recognizes the hidden expenses that come with long-term health conditions, offering financial relief that can make a significant difference in the lives of those affected.

Qualifying for the DTC with Psoriatic Arthritis

Psoriatic Arthritis sufferers may qualify for the DTC if their condition significantly restricts their ability to perform basic activities of daily living or if they require extensive therapy to manage their condition. The key criteria revolve around the severity and duration of the impairment, with an emphasis on how it affects an individual’s life over a prolonged period.

Eligibility hinges on a detailed certification by a medical practitioner, outlining how PsA impacts the applicant’s normal functioning. Given the variability and complexity of PsA, navigating the application process can feel overwhelming, but understanding that significant joint pain, mobility restrictions, and the need for regular therapy could qualify helps clarify the path to eligibility.

Benefits of the DTC

The financial support from the DTC can be a game-changer, helping to cover the costs of treatments, medications, and necessary lifestyle adjustments not always covered by insurance. This can include anything from physiotherapy to special equipment to facilitate daily tasks, reducing the financial strain on individuals and families.

Beyond the immediate financial relief, the DTC can also open doors to other provincial and federal benefits, creating a broader support network for those living with PsA.

Navigating the Process with True North Disability Services

True North Disability Services stands as your expert guide through the DTC application process. Understanding the intricacies of Psoriatic Arthritis and the DTC, we’re here to help you successfully navigate the system and secure the benefits you deserve. Our expertise ensures a smoother, more informed journey towards financial support, allowing you to focus more on managing your health and less on the stress of financial pressures.

The DTC can be a lifeline for those living with Psoriatic Arthritis, providing much-needed support in managing both the condition and the associated costs. With True North Disability Services by your side, the path to accessing this support becomes clearer and more navigable, marking a step toward greater well-being and financial stability.

Summary: What Are The 5 Types of Psoriatic Arthritis

In exploring “What are the 5 types of psoriatic arthritis,” we’ve uncovered the complex nature of this condition and its diverse manifestations. 

The subtypes of psoriatic arthritis include Asymmetric Oligoarticular Psoriatic Arthritis, Symmetric Polyarthritis, Distal Interphalangeal Predominant (DIP), Spondylitis, and Arthritis Mutilans.

Recognizing the potential disabling impact of PsA, resources like the Disability Tax Credit emerge as essential supports, offering financial relief and making treatment more accessible. 

Are you living with arthritis and wondering if a change in location could make a difference? You’re not alone—many people with arthritis feel that the weather plays a significant role in their day-to-day symptoms. In Canada, where the climate can vary wildly from one region to another, the question arises: where is the best climate for arthritis sufferers? 

In this article, we’ll dive into this intriguing question, explore the science behind it, and list some of the most arthritis-friendly cities in Canada’s climate. 

The Science Behind Arthritis Symptoms & The Climate

You may have heard the old saying that aching joints can predict the weather. While it might sound like folklore, there’s actually some scientific evidence to back up the idea that climate can affect arthritis symptoms. Research suggests that various weather factors like temperature, humidity, and atmospheric pressure can play a role in how your joints feel.

• Temperature: Cold weather tends to make joint pain more pronounced, while warmer climates seem to ease the discomfort for some people.
• Humidity: High levels of humidity can increase inflammation and exacerbate pain levels. Conversely, dry climates may offer relief from joint stiffness.
• Atmospheric Pressure: Changes in barometric pressure, often accompanying storms and shifts in weather, can also cause joints to ache.

While individual responses to climate can vary, it’s worth noting that many people with arthritis report feeling better in stable, mild climates. But remember, relocating is a significant decision and should be discussed with healthcare providers and loved ones. Let’s explore some Canadian cities that might just offer the climate you’ve been searching for.

Can The Weather Really Affect Arthritis? 

The relationship between weather and arthritis symptoms is a topic of ongoing research, and the evidence is mixed. Some scientific studies suggest that weather conditions like high humidity, wind speed, and low atmospheric pressure can exacerbate pain for those with chronic pain conditions, including arthritis. The idea behind this is that as cartilage deteriorates due to arthritis, the nerves in our bones might become more sensitive to changes in pressure. Additionally, fluctuations in air pressure could cause our muscles and tendons to contract or expand, contributing to joint discomfort.

In a 2019 study of over 13,000 people with a range of pain conditions, predominantly arthritis, researchers reported: “Higher relative humidity and wind speed, and lower atmospheric pressure, were associated with increased pain severity in people with long-term pain conditions.”

That said, other studies haven’t found a significant correlation between arthritis pain and local weather conditions. In essence, the scientific community is still divided on how exactly weather impacts arthritis pain, if at all.

But ultimately, you know your body and pain fluctuations best.

If you personally suspect that the weather might be affecting your arthritis symptoms, consider keeping a pain diary to track changes over time. This can help you identify patterns, better manage your symptoms, and help you choose the best Canadian climate for arthritis. 

The Varied Canadian Climate 

Canada is a vast country with a range of climates, influenced by factors like latitude, altitude, and proximity to water bodies. Here’s a quick overview:

Western Canada: The coastal regions of British Columbia are influenced by the Pacific Ocean, leading to milder winters and cooler summers. In contrast, the interior regions experience hot summers and cold winters.

Prairies: Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba experience dry climates with cold winters and hot summers. Humidity is generally lower in these regions.

Central Canada: Ontario and Quebec have a humid continental climate with cold winters and hot, humid summers.

Atlantic Canada: The Maritime Provinces like Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island experience more moderate climates due to the Atlantic Ocean, but they can still have harsh winters.

Northern Canada: Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut experience subarctic or arctic climates with extremely cold winters.

Understanding these regional climate differences can be particularly useful if you’re considering relocating for health reasons, such as managing arthritis symptoms.

6 Canadian Cities With The Best Climate For Arthritis

As we mentioned, it’s best to nail down what environmental factor is triggering arthritis flare-ups. This will help you determine what’s best for you personally. For some it’s the intense cold, for others it’s the combination of humidity and cold. Find what’s best for you, but the following suggestions are a great place to start.

When considering the best climate for arthritis in Canada, look for cities that offer moderate temperatures and low humidity, as these factors are often cited for their potential to alleviate joint pain. 

Here are some Canadian cities that might be worth considering if you suffer from arthritis:

1. Victoria, British Columbia

Known for its mild, oceanic climate, Victoria experiences less rain and snow compared to other cities in BC. The moderate temperatures here could be beneficial for arthritis sufferers.

2. Kelowna, British Columbia

Located in the Okanagan Valley, Kelowna offers hot summers and mild winters. The relatively dry climate may be easier on your joints.

3. Vancouver, British Columbia

While a bit rainier than other options, Vancouver’s mild climate and lack of extreme temperature fluctuations make it an option worth considering. The climate here is compared to that of London, England. 

4. Calgary, Alberta

Despite its cold winters, Calgary is known for its dry climate. The city also gets plenty of sunshine, which could boost your mood and potentially alleviate some arthritis symptoms.

5. Halifax, Nova Scotia

Although it experiences all four seasons, Halifax has a relatively moderate climate. The city does have some humidity, but it’s not as extreme as in other parts of Canada. If humidity is not a trigger, you could consider Halifax. 

6. St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador

St. John’s is another city with a more moderate climate. Although it can be windy, the temperatures are generally milder compared to other parts of Canada.

Each of these cities offers a unique set of weather conditions that could potentially be beneficial for arthritis sufferers. If weather seems to play a role in your arthritis symptoms, these cities might offer some relief.

How the Disability Tax Credit Can Help

If you’re living with arthritis, you know that managing the condition can come with both physical and financial challenges. That’s where the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) can make a difference. This non-refundable tax credit is designed to help Canadians who have severe and prolonged physical or mental impairments. It aims to offset some of the financial burdens associated with your condition, such as the cost of medications, treatments, and lifestyle changes.

For those grappling with arthritis, especially in its more severe forms that significantly limit daily activities, you may be eligible for the DTC. This could mean valuable financial support to help manage your condition better, freeing up resources for treatments that can improve your quality of life.

Conclusion: The Best Climate For Arthritis in Canada

Finding the best climate for arthritis in Canada may offer you some level of comfort and relief, but it’s important to consider other lifestyle changes and financial aid as well. We’ve looked at some Canadian cities that offer a more arthritis-friendly climate, and we’ve also touched on other lifestyle adjustments that could help manage your symptoms.

From our research, British Columbia is bound to offer you the mildest Canadian climate best for arthritis – look into cities such as Victoria, Vancouver, and Kelowna.

If you’re considering making a move or need financial assistance to manage your arthritis, don’t overlook the Disability Tax Credit as a financial aid option—it could be the support you’ve been searching for.

So, take control of your life and explore all the options available to you. After all, you’re not just managing arthritis; you’re improving your overall quality of life.

If you want to learn more about the Disability Tax Credit, reach out to our team, we’re here to help. 

Read More: Is Osteoarthritis a Disability in Canada? – The Must-Know Facts

Read More: Is Rheumatoid Arthritis a Disability in Canada? DTC Eligibility 

At True North Disability Services, we often hear the question, “Is degenerative disc disease a disability?” “Could it really qualify for the Disability Tax Credit?” In this article, we’ll highlight everything you should know about degenerative disc disease and the disability resources available to you in Canada.

In Canada, back problems are among the most common chronic conditions. Many people experience the degeneration of spinal cartilage but don’t deal with chronic pain. Others are not so lucky. 

Over a third of all Canadians suffer from chronic back pain and report that it impedes their work and daily activities. 

While everyone will experience changes to the health of their spinal discs over time, not everyone will deal with degenerative disc disease or the possible complications that may lead to osteoarthritis, herniated discs, or spinal stenosis.

In this article, we’ll explore this condition and the disability resources available to you. 

Understanding Degenerative Disc Disease

The disk-shaped “shock absorbing” spongy cushions that lie between the vertebrae are called spinal discs. With age, everyone’s spinal discs degenerate to some degree. By 60 years old, 90% of people have some degeneration or deterioration of these disks. For most, this is often painless and is simply called “degeneration”. 

The term “degenerative disc disease” however, is a type of arthritic degeneration that does cause pain and other uncomfortable symptoms. 

The cartilage of the spinal discs allows the spine to remain flexible and withstand the pressure of everyday movement. 

And, when discs are damaged, it’s very hard for them to repair themselves due to low blood supply. This is when a cycle of degeneration can set in.

Deteriorating discs can dry out, become brittle, and form tears or cracks, reducing the cushioning between the vertebrae. The spine’s response might be to develop bone spurs, which can put pressure on nerves, potentially causing intense nerve pain.

The Symptoms & Impact of Degenerative Disc Disease

Degenerative disc disease pain can range from mildly annoying to debilitating. Some won’t experience pain while others can have such severe pain that it changes their lives and limits their activities. 

Common symptoms are:

• Neck and back pain, location depends on the vertebrates affected
• This pain may radiate to the hips or legs 
• Worsening pain with bending, lifting, or twisting
• Worsening pain when sitting or standing for long periods
• Pinched nerve pain
• Numbness or tingling in extremities
• Muscle weakness 

This wear-and-tear condition can make just about anything difficult. Working can be a hurdle as it may either involve the labor of lifting, twisting, or bending, or it may require you to sit at a desk for very long periods of time. Either workplace situation may be unbearably uncomfortable for those with degenerative disc disease.  

Is Degenerative Disc Disease a Disability? 

Depending on how the condition affects you, yes degenerative disc disease can be considered a disability.

Degenerative disc disease can be considered a disability if it severely impacts a person’s ability to perform daily activities or work tasks. 

This condition has the potential to be debilitating, significantly impairing daily routines. It may limit simple activities like walking, dressing, household chores, sitting for extended periods, and standing. The mobility restrictions commonly seen in individuals with degenerative disc disease can indeed render it a disability.

However, the exact classification may vary based on jurisdiction and specific individual conditions. When in doubt, it’s always a good idea to chat with an expert on disability. 

Are You Eligible for Disability Benefits? Ask Yourself These Questions 

If you’re uncertain whether degenerative disc disease is classified as a disability in Canada, or if you could be eligible for benefits like the Disability Tax Credit, consider these points:

• Do you rely on mobility aids like a scooter, wheelchair or cane?
• When walking, do you need to pause and rest after 100 yards (approximately 1 city block)?
• Are your symptoms persistent, affecting you 90% of the time or more?
• Is dressing a struggle that takes you three times as long as the average person due to pain or mobility issues?
• Do you require assistance to get dressed?
• Do you have significant and prolonged impairment in daily activities?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, you might be eligible for the Disability Tax Credit. 

To know for certain, reach out to our Disability Tax Credit experts. 

Disability Tax Credit 101

If you or a loved one is affected by degenerative disc disease and experiences challenges in walking or dressing, you might be entitled to a substantial refund from the Canadian Government. 

The Disability Tax Credit may allow you to retroactively claim for up to the past 10 years, potentially leading to a significant payout of up to $40,000. Designed for Canadian taxpayers with a disability, the Disability Tax Credit is a non-refundable tax credit. (Meaning, your refund is based on your taxable income or that of a supporting family member/spouse). 

The program was designed to provide financial relief for individuals with disabilities and their families. 

Learn more about the Disability Tax Credit by clicking HERE. 

Once an individual is DTC-certified, they may become eligible for a Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP). This program offers up to $90,000 in grants and bonds, serving as an exceptional resource for retirement planning.

Reach Out To Our Team to Learn More

We help Canadians qualify for the Disability Tax Credit program every day. We’re dedicated to helping our fellow Canadians navigate the complex world of disability services.

Our team of experts assists clients in completing applications, gathering supporting documentation, and communicating with the Canada Revenue Agency on your behalf. 

All of this, at no upfront cost. It’s risk-free when apply through us. 

With years of experience in the field, True North Disability Services aims to maximize our clients’ disability tax credit returns, providing much-needed, and often life-changing, financial relief. 

To learn more about the Disability Tax Credit, don’t hesitate to contact us today!

Ankylosing spondylitis is a progressive form of arthritis that can be downright, debilitatingly painful. It’s true that it can be a discouraging diagnosis, but what better way to lift the spirits than to seek the successful movers and shakers in our world who live with this condition? In this article, we’ll share 3 of the most famous people with ankylosing spondylitis, who don’t let their condition define them or limit their success. 

Before we do, it’s important to address the reality of this inflammatory condition that affects 1% of the worldwide population. 

This form of arthritis primarily impacts the spine and the sacroiliac joints, where the pelvis meets the spine. Those living with ankylosing spondylitis may deal with chronic back pain, neck pain, and stiffness in the lower back and hips. In severe cases, spinal fusion may occur.

While ankylosing spondylitis is a form of inflammatory arthritis, it is also a recognized autoimmune disease that may flare up throughout your life. 

Read: Is Ankylosing Spondylitis a Disability?

There is a long list of ankylosing spondylitis symptoms you may experience which may cause debilitating pain. However, ankylosing spondylitis never stopped these successful people from reaching their dreams and life goals. 

Meet Two Inspiring Guys, Living with Ankylosing Spondylitis 

When talking about famous people with ankylosing spondylitis, these two men come to mind – the two are very different, but both doing amazing work to bring awareness to the condition. 

We’d like you to meet two notable people living with this condition, yet leading remarkable lives. 

Meet Imagine Dragons frontman, Dan Reynolds

Reynolds is one of the most notable and outspoken famous people with ankylosing spondylitis. Since 2016, when he first opened up to an audience at one of his concerts about living with this condition, he’s been working to raise awareness for this autoimmune disease. 

Reynolds stood on the stage with thousands of people hanging on his every word, he said “I’ve never said this publicly ever, but I’m just going to say it because it’s part of my life now. Does anyone out there suffer from any kind of disease? No one ever wants to raise their hands —I have something called ankylosing spondylitis. It’s an autoimmune disease, and I’ve never spoken about it because, frankly, I’ve been embarrassed. And tonight I’m going to share it because there are probably other people out there who suffer from it too.” 

This lead singer started to have symptoms when he was only 21 years old and it continued to worsen until around when his band was starting to get traction. He old People magazine “It was beyond the pain that you feel when it’s just a backache. It felt like someone was drilling my nerves.”

It got to the point where he couldn’t perform. “I couldn’t get on stage. I couldn’t move, I couldn’t sleep at night, I couldn’t perform without standing perfectly still. I couldn’t sit down for more than a half an hour.” 

Taking immunosuppressant drugs caused him reoccurring sinus infections and he worried pain medication use could affect his vocal cords. While this doesn’t work for everyone, one of the things he advocates for is the natural (as possible) treatment of this condition. He follows a strict anti-inflammatory bone-friendly diet. And a steady workout regime has also been a game-changer for Reynolds. 

His workout regime is not just about getting ripped, it’s about keeping his arthritic condition under control.

It’s worth noting that this doesn’t work for everyone with ankylosing spondylitis and prescribed medications from your doctor are likely a must to manage the condition.  

This lead singer told  Everyday Health, “When it’s raining, when it’s storming, you can either hide or you can take action. The No. 1 thing I needed to do was to take action. So I went to see a rheumatologist.”

Reynolds has a unique rock and roll lifestyle and has to contend with managing two inflammatory diseases — ankylosing spondylitis and ulcerative colitis. He works with his doctors to ensure his conditions are well managed and his career has never been better. This condition made things tricky for him, without a doubt, but he’s certainly persevered and made a name for himself. 

Meet Helgi Alfason, The Ultrarunner and Health Advocate 

When Helgi was 19 he awoke one day and couldn’t move, his limbs felt locked in place. Doctors soon diagnosed him with ankylosing spondylitis. 

Looking at Heligi, a former Winnipegger now living in sunny Florida, it’s hard to believe this tall, lean, and strong young man deals with a chronic disease that could debilitate someone. 

Now 39, Heligi finds himself partaking in endurance sports and at the front lines of ultramarathons. While he has treated his condition traditionally with various medications, he has dedicated himself to using movement as medicine. Along the way, he hoped to raise money AND inspire others with ankylosing spondylitis.

In 2021, he completed a triple crown, a runner’s ultramarathon traversing 640 miles in three races. 

About this race, Heligi has said, “Through social media outreach, articles, and many personal meet and greets at race expos and hospitals over the past five years, I have a captive audience of people cheering for me, the guy who is holding their torch. I’m the person that runs for them because they can’t. Or maybe they can, but they are taking it slow and listening to their body, which is exactly what I preach.” 

His goal was to complete the race and make a film “that brings one into my headspace during such an epic, challenging adventure while simultaneously giving arthritis patients, ultra runners, and average Joes the opportunity to get involved.”

Despite his debilitating condition, Heligi is a notable competitive endurance athlete and ultra runner. He’s dedicated his life to using his body as a tool, even when it feels it’s rebelling against him. He feels that he carries the torch for so many with limiting or arthritic conditions and that fuels him. He’s said he “wants to push himself while he can.” Some may criticize the extremeness of his sport, but he says “It’s just my nature.”  

If You Have Ankylosing Spondylitis You May Qualify for Support from the CRA

At True North Disability Services, we enjoy bringing you inspirational stories of people overcoming their odds. So much can be said about the power of inspiration and hope.

If you or your loved one lives with ankylosing spondylitis, you may qualify for a refund from the Canadian government. We help people every day uncover the disability support they’re entitled to. If want to learn more about the disability tax credit, reach out to our team. 

Wondering if ankylosing spondylitis is considered a disability in Canada? Here’s everything you need to know. 

It’s estimated that 300,000 Canadians live with ankylosing spondylitis. This lifelong inflammatory autoimmune disease is a form of spondyloarthritis, which may cause chronic back pain, neck pain, and stiffness. 

But, could ankylosing spondylitis pain get serious enough to severely limit and impact an individual’s life? Is ankylosing spondylitis a disability? Could those with ankylosing spondylitis qualify for disability programs in Canada?

In this article, we will answer these questions and share everything you should know about ankylosing spondylitis and disability recognition and benefits in Canada. 

Understanding Ankylosing Spondylitis

Ankylosing spondylitis is a form of inflammatory arthritis, a variation of spondyloarthritis. 

This condition primarily impacts the spine and the sacroiliac joints, where the pelvis meets the spine. Those living with ankylosing spondylitis may deal with chronic back pain, neck pain, and stiffness in the lower back and hips. 

But, ankylosing spondylitis is far more complicated than a bit of back aches and pains.

“Ankylosing” means fusing and “spondylitis” means inflammation of the spine. 

While ankylosing spondylitis is a form of inflammatory arthritis, it is also a recognized autoimmune disease. With ankylosing spondylitis, the body’s immune system targets and attacks the ligaments and tendons connected to the spine. When this damage occurs the bone can begin to erode, in an effort to repair itself, the body forms new bone. While this doesn’t always occur, this bone growth may cause the bones of the spine to fuse together, causing the spinal cord to become inflexible, stiff, and painful. 

Ankylosing Spondylitis & The Range of Impact

Those with this lifelong condition may experience a range of impacts and potential impairments. For some, ankylosing spondylitis only causes them minor pain that may come and go. For many, treatment is effective at reducing symptoms and flare-ups. The majority of people with ankylosing spondylitis live perfectly normal and full lives.

For others, ankylosing spondylitis can progress in severity and may experience spinal fusion. This severity doesn’t always happen with ankylosing spondylitis. However, in these cases, ankylosing spondylitis may very well be viewed as an impairment. 

Is Ankylosing Spondylitis a Disability in Canada?

Yes, ankylosing spondylitis can be a disability in Canada. However, the diagnosis itself does not automatically qualify as a disability. 

When it comes to disability recognition from the Canadian government, it’s a bit trickier than simply having a diagnosis. This is because people with the same condition are affected to varying degrees. 

That being said, if the tasks of everyday life are affected by your ankylosing spondylitis, your condition may be considered disabling. 

Ankylosing spondylitis may affect your ability to carry out daily activities like walking, doing daily chores, dressing, and working for long periods of time. 

When it comes to the Disability Tax Credit, Canadians can get approved under the following categories: walking, feeding, dressing, speaking, seeing, elimination, mental functions necessary for everyday life, vision, and life-sustaining therapy. Some of which may be affected by ankylosing spondylitis and other inflammatory arthritis conditions. 

When Considering Disability Benefits in Canada Ask Yourself These Questions

If you’re wondering if ankylosing spondylitis is a disability in Canada or if you could qualify for life-changing benefits like Disability Tax Credit – ask yourself these questions: 

• Do you use any mobility assistance like a scooter, wheelchair, or cane? 
• When going for a walk, would you need to stop and take a rest after 100 yards (length of 1 city block)? 
• Do the symptoms of your condition affect you 90% of the time or more?
• Does it take you 3x longer than the average person to dress because of pain or flexibility challenges? 
• Does someone need to help you get dressed? 

If you answered yes to any of these questions, you may qualify for the Disability Tax Credit. To know for sure, reach out to us for a consultation. 

Disability Tax Credit 101 

If you or a loved one is affected by ankylosing spondylitis and experiences challenges in walking or dressing, you might be entitled to a substantial refund from the Canadian Government. 

The Disability Tax Credit may allow you to retroactively claim for up to the past 10 years, potentially leading to a significant payout of up to $40,000. 

Designed for Canadian taxpayers with a disability, the Disability Tax Credit is a non-refundable tax credit. (Meaning, your refund is based on your taxable income or that of a supporting family member/spouse). The program was designed to provide financial relief for individuals with disabilities and their families.

Once an individual is DTC-certified, they may become eligible for a Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP). This program offers up to $90,000 in grants and bonds, serving as an exceptional resource for retirement planning.

We’re Disability Tax Credit Experts  

Here at True North Disability Services, we specialize in helping Canadians with eligible conditions qualify for the Disability Tax Credit. We are dedicated to helping Canadians claim the benefits they are entitled to.

Why are we so passionate about helping people? It all begins with our story.

Want to know if you would qualify for the Disability Tax Credit and uncover years of retroactive claims? Reach out to us, totally free and risk-free. We’re here to help.