I'm a rated airlift pilot in the Air National Guard (8 years) and after 32 years of perfect health, I suddenly started having achy joints in my hands and feet several months ago. It was never bad enough to affect my flying but I decided to mention it to my family docter as I could tell something was not right. He refered me to a rheumatologist who diagnosed me with psoriatic arthritis. He put me on an anti-inflamatory called sulfasalizine which seems to have taken care of the problem.

I feel fine but after investigating the air force regs, I'm wondering if I have a prayer of getting a waiver for this condition. Has anyone had any experience with this or have any suggestions?

We've waived Sulfasalazine many a time and have waived psoriatic arthritis as well. Sounds like you are in a multiplace aircraft as well. I think you have a better than average chance.

You have seen psoriatic arthritis waived in the past? I looked up Psoriasis in AFPAM 48-132 and it did not sound encouraging. In section IV (Waiver Considerations) under USAF experience, it says "no aviators with associated arthritis received waivers". Am I reading this incorrectly? I hope so...this has been stressing me big time!

I queried AIMWTS...the aeromedical waiver database. And yes, I have found that the AF has waived rated aviators, including pilots, for psoriatic arthritis treated w/ Sulfasalazine. Positive waiver will depend on "the rest of the story".

Were you really looking at AFPAM48-132 or the Waiver Guide. The Waiver Guide was last updated in '99. AFPAM 48-132 was probably updated around the turn of the century and isn't available electronically! My query is as of today.

I had a photocopy from AFPAM 48-132 that came from our wings medical group...not sure what the date is on it as I only have two pages! Thank you for taking the time to look up that information. It sounds like I should roll the dice and keep my fingers crossed.

I did a search relating to degenerative back arthritis but did not have much luck finding any related information.

I have just been diagnosed with mild degenerative back arthritis. I'm only 23 and I'm concerned this might be a show stopper for me.

Is this a DQ? what would be the odds of a wavier? Any information would be greatly appreciated. Thanks

Duece,

Arthritis of the spine, any type is DQing. A waiver would probably depend on the symptoms, treatment, and the dibilitation of the disease.

I'll defer to one of the docs on chances for a waiver...

Good luck

As long as it isn't associated w/ a disease process...Reiter's Syndrome, Ankylosing Spondyloarthritis, etc (a chance to throw out the big words!!)...you should be okay.

My flight doc suspects I've got rheumatoid arthritis. He's referred me to an off-base clinic, but is he not supposed to send me to Brooks?

Anybody else diagnosed with this and still flying?