By Chris Sharry on December 11th, 2025 in Disability, Disability Claims
Limitations are classified as exertional if they affect your ability to perform the strength demands of jobs. These consist of three work positions (standing, walking, and sitting) and four worker movements of objects (lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling). Strength demands include the ability to walk, stand, sit, push, pull, carry, or lift. Social Security groups the amount of exertion into five levels:
1. Sedentary – Sedentary work involves no lifting of anything heavier than 10 pounds. It also is mainly performed sitting with up to 2 hours during the day of standing or walking around.
2. Light – Light work requires a little more exertion. These jobs involve lifting of up to 20 pounds and the majority of the day is usually spent standing or walking.
3. Medium -Medium jobs can involve lifting up to 50 pounds. Workers in these jobs are usually on their feet almost all of the day and are also expected to be able to frequently bend or stoop.
4. Heavy – Up to 100 lbs occasionally, 50 lbs frequently, 20 lbs constantly; often needs frequent stooping/crouching.
5. Very Heavy -Over 100 lbs occasionally, over 50 lbs frequently, over 20 lbs constantly; highest exertion level.
What Should You Do If Exertional Limitations Affect Your Ability to Work?
Understanding how the Social Security Administration evaluates exertional limitations is essential, because these restrictions directly influence whether you can perform your past work—or any work that exists in the national economy. The SSA looks closely at the specific physical demands you can meet and assigns an exertional level that determines the range of jobs you may still be able to perform. Even small changes in your ability to lift, stand, walk, or carry objects can shift your case into a different category and significantly affect your eligibility for disability benefits.
If you believe your exertional limitations prevent you from working, or if Social Security has misclassified your exertional level, it is important to present clear medical evidence and a well-documented work history. Attorney Chris Sharry can help you understand how your limitations fit into Social Security’s exertional framework and assist in preparing the strongest possible claim. To discuss your disability application or appeal, contact Attorney Sharry today.
