Osteomyelitis is a serious bone infection that can, if untreated, cause life-threatening complications and permanent physical impairment. It is most often caused by a trauma that exposes damaged bone to bacteria or blood or tissue infections that spread into otherwise healthy bone tissue. Once the bone is damaged or weakened, complications such as osteoporosis or arthritis can occur and cause life-long problems. If you have experienced osteomyelitis and any associated conditions that have affected your ability to work, you may qualify to file a New York disability claim.