The disability evaluation and low back pain.

Abstract

In the United States an estimated 11 million persons are unable to work, with 8.1 million unable to work to their full capacity. Primary care physicians are often called on for the evaluation and determination of patients with claims for disability. Knowledge of the system for disability determination and a systematic approach facilitates the process. This article focuses on the requirements of the Social Security Administration, under federal law tasked to administer the Social Security Disability Insurance program and the Supplemental Security Income program, and offers an approach to the evaluation of patients with claims of disability.