Can you join the Air Force if you have arthritis?

Question

I was diagnosed with Arthritis when I was 15. I have not had it checked since then (i am now 20) and it doesn't really bother me anymore. I was wondering if you can join the Air Force Reserves with arthritis... And if i get clearance from a doctor will they okay me?

Answer 1

omg, i opened this question for one reason; i've had JRA (jouvinal roomitoid arthriris) since i was only 2. i take methotrexate... anyway it shouldnt matter if you have it or not (by the was i am soooo sorry to here you have that. it isnt fair, is it?) but it might depend on where you have it- in the legs fingers arms ect.- because although i'm sure it will act up from time to time, but if most of the time its mellow, then i would think it would be okay. but hey, i'm just 11 and dont know alot... but if they dont let you in for that little reason, then thats EXACTLY why they should have arthritis walks and associations cause although it isnt life threatening, it does prevent you from doing alot. well, good luck and i hope all your joints are okay.

Answer 2

Arthritis as itself, is a disqualifying condition, without a medical waiver. Waivers are granted on a case by case issuance. So what works for one person, may not work for another.

You will have to get a civilian doctor's clearance before you can even submit a waiver, (Trust me, been there done that, got the tshirt and mickey mouse ears with my little name on back). However, purely having civilian approval does not in any way guarantee your chance of being accepted. (Once again, been there.).

It is possible that you could just "not" say anything about it, and i'm sure you could have a perfectly successful military career, and be absolutely outstanding.

But I won't say you should do it. You have to remember, that if they find out you didn't disclose that information, it's possible they can discharge you, and legally, they could imprison you, and fine you, but that's not likely, very unlikely.

It's possible, but, it's a long process if you want to get it waivered, and you'll have to be patient.

Sorry if my answer doesn't really help, but it is unfair for anyone to tell you to "forget" about it.

Answer 3

That would depend on where and what type of arthritis you have. Should have Osteoarthritis in your knees or ankles I would not recommend that you join or if it is a obvious condition that you can spot. I know that when I was a recruiter back in 1991 I had a couple of guys who joined the navy with scoliosis of the spine so just as long as you have all your medical records they (meps) will send out for a counsel to a contracted MD and let them make the choice. also your recruiter can have the AF send to BUMED for a final choice.
good luck.

Answer 4

Arthritis is a PDQ with no waivers authorized. can't take any meds with you to Boot Camp/basic training. I should know, I have it and could not get into the Navy, which has more flexibility to grant waivers than the AF does.

Answer 5

That would be a no. You need to keep up with the highly strenous physical training, and the USAF won't risk the high probability of injury.

Answer 6

Did you have Stills?Me too!!! I wouldn't tell them.

I told them, and they turned me down, but I'm convinced that it would never have mattered. It would not have flared, and I wouldn't have cost them any money medical wise, nor would it have impeded me from any part of my duty or physical requirements.

(People who don't have Stills won't understand this.)

Answer 7

No, but tell your recruiter and when you go to MEPS tell them NOOO! basically to everything becauses their goal at meps is to disqualify you. but i think you will be fine good luck

Answer 8

nope. chronic degenrative diseases are a PDQ with no chance of a waiver.