Supplemental Security Income

Of course, you may have a combination of problems such as chronic back pain, depression, and arthritis of the knees and hands that severely limit you from working.

You would not necessarily need surgery in this example to be found disabled.

But what about cases in which the back is your main problem, and no surgery has been recommended?

You will need objective findings of severe problems. For example, xrays or MRIs of severe scolosis, degenerative arthritis, or arachnoiditis.

It will be helpful to have information from the doctor explaining that surgery or other treatment will not be able to cure your condition.

It is also helpful to have the doctor give his opinion about your resulting limitations.