tiresome

I agree with papergoods. In 1994 I too had a fusion of C5-6. They neglected to tell me about the disc above or below the fuse would eventually bulge. Luckily for me it was the one below, C6-7, had it been the one above I would have even worse problems than I do now. I wish someone would have told me to ask the surgeon about this and to find out what problems would come about if the damage was to the above or below discs.
I think you should apply for SSDI, be sure to bring complete documentation of your back problems (medical records, meds taken, detailed explanation as to why you cannot work, how your disabilities affect your daily activities) The more detailed you are in the beginning the better your chances of receiving an approval on the first try. Look on ssa.gov website to see what the requirements are for your conditions in the "Adult Listings" and be sure to include those in your documentation. Start keeping a journal of the pain you are experiencing, meds, ect. Also be sure to add all your problems not just the back problems, for instance if you are suffering from depression or have any other illnesses that affect you. I applied with epilepsy, neck problems and Major Depression. Had I looked in the Adult Listings before I applied I would have known to try to get an EEG capturing a seizure and to give them proof that I was taking my meds with a blood report. Had I provided this info when I first applied I probably wouldn't be waiting for a hearing before an ALJ.
I hope I have been of some help. Welcome to the disability part of the board, as you know from the back one you can get a lot of usefull info here. God bless.
Laura