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Substantial Limitation

Meaning

A substantial limitation is a clinically significant restriction in the ability to perform a major life activity, such as walking, seeing, hearing, or performing manual tasks, due to a physical or mental impairment. In the context of hormonal health, this often refers to severe functional decline stemming from untreated or poorly managed endocrine disorders, such as debilitating fatigue from hypothyroidism or muscle wasting from severe hypogonadism. Identifying a substantial limitation is a key clinical step that often dictates the necessity and urgency of therapeutic intervention.