Erythromelalgia

Saturday, January 26th, 2019

According to The Erythromelalgia Association , “Erythromelalgia (EM) is a rare neurovascular condition that most commonly affects the feet, but may also occur in the hands, face, or other parts of the body.” Erythromelalgia is a condition characterized by episodes of pain, redness, and swelling in various parts of the body, particularly the hands and feet. Its hallmark is the triggering or worsening of symptoms with exposure to heat (heat intolerance) or exercise and relief with cooling.

The Merck Manual notes that erythromelalgia can progressively become incapacitating. The Merck Manual states that treatment includes avoiding exposure to heat, resting, elevating the legs or arms, and applying cold packs to the legs or arms or immersing them in cold water. The American Chronic Pain Association (“ACPA”), notes that erythromelalgia progresses as a person gets older, and the pain “can be so debilitating that it impedes everyday activities,” and can “prevent an affected person from regularly going to school or work.”

I represent a 39 year old claimant with erythromelalgia, who worked in data entry. The erythromelalgia has been spreading. The claimant’s left upper extremity is where the erythromelalgia started, and it now affects both hands. The claimant’s doctors concurred that the he would be off task over 20% of the time because of his impairments. The ALJ agreed, and found the claimant was disabled.

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