The decision as to whether you are disabled from working is made by disability specialists in your state. This is called the DDS.
Their task is to review all the medical records in your case. This includes your doctor’s progress notes, hospitalizations, surgeries performed and his current assessment as to your progress in recovering from your medical problem.
After considering the evidence, they will give their opinion as to how your problem specifically affects your ability to work. They fill out a form called an RFC which stands for Residual Functional Capacity. In brief terms, it states how many pounds you can lift and carry, stand, walk and sit over an 8 hour day, In addition, it includes how well you can raise your arms, use your hands for grasping and performing fine fingering such as picking up small objects and writing.
Their decision is also based on your age, past work history and level of education. In general, those under 50 years of age must meet more stringent limitations in order to gain benefits while older individuals such as those over 55 years of age may be declared disabled with lesser restrictions.