Source: http://tn.findacase.com/research/wfrmDocViewer.aspx/xq/fac.20150220_0000135.MTN.htm/qx
Timestamp: 2016-12-04 10:07:35
Document Index: 358894023

Matched Legal Cases: ['§ 405', '§ 405', '§ 405', '§ 405', '§ 416', '§ 404', '§ 404', '§ 416', '§ 404', '§ 416', '§ 416', '§ 404', '§ 200', '§ 404']

PHILLIP VARELA, Plaintiff,v.CAROLYN W. COLVIN, Acting Commissioner of Social Security, Defendant.
This is a civil action filed pursuant to 42 U.S.C. § 405(g), to obtain judicial review of the final decision of the Commissioner of Social Security denying Plaintiff Disability Insurance Benefits ("DIB"), as provided under Title II of the Social Security Act ("the Act"). The case is currently pending on Plaintiff's Motion for Judgment on the Administrative Record. Docket No. 12. Defendant has filed a Response, arguing that the decision of the Commissioner was supported by substantial evidence and should be affirmed. Docket No. 13. Plaintiff has filed a Reply. Docket No. 16.
Plaintiff completed his application for Disability Insurance Benefits ("DIB") on July 28, 2010, alleging that he had been disabled since February 20, 2009, [1] due to muscle spasms, chronic back pain, hip pain, depression, sleep apnea, anxiety, and dizziness. See, e.g., Docket No. 10, Attachment ("TR"), pp. 108-109, 135-142, 162-167. Plaintiff's application was denied both initially (TR 60-63) and upon reconsideration (TR 65-67). Plaintiff subsequently requested (TR 68-69) and received (TR 80-97) a hearing. Plaintiff's hearing was conducted on August 30, 2012, by Administrative Law Judge ("ALJ") Scott Shimer. TR 30-54. Plaintiff and Vocational Expert ("VE"), Pedro Roman, appeared and testified. Id. Plaintiff's attorney, Robert Parker, also appeared. Id. On September 19, 2012, the ALJ issued a decision unfavorable to Plaintiff, finding that Plaintiff was not disabled within the meaning of the Social Security Act and Regulations. TR 9-29. Specifically, the ALJ made the following findings of fact:
2. The claimant has not engaged in substantial gainful activity since April 1, 2010, the amended alleged onset date (20 CFR 404.1571 et seq. ).
3. The claimant has the following severe impairments: obesity; degenerative disc disease; osteoarthritis of the hips; major depressive disorder; and anxiety disorder (20 CFR 404.1520(c)).
5. After careful consideration of the entire record, the undersigned finds that the claimant has the residual functional capacity to perform light work as defined in 20 CFR 404.1567(b) except that he can stand and/or walk four hours in an eight-hour workday; only occasionally balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, and crawl; never climb ladders/ropes/scaffolds; have no exposure to unprotected heights or unguarded, moving machinery; understand, remember, and carry out short, routine, repetitive tasks but not complex work; and workplace changes should be gradual and infrequent.
7. The claimant was born on January 3, 1979 and was 30 years old, which is defined as a younger individual age 18-49, on the alleged disability onset date (20 CFR 404.1563).
11. The claimant has not been under a disability, as defined in the Social Security Act, from February 20, 2009, through the date of this decision (20 CFR 404.1520(g)).
TR 14-25.
On November 8, 2012, Plaintiff timely filed a request for review of the hearing decision. TR 6-8. On December 18, 2013, the Appeals Council issued a letter declining to review the case (TR 1-5), thereby rendering the decision of the ALJ the final decision of the Commissioner. This civil action was thereafter timely filed, and the Court has jurisdiction. 42 U.S.C. § 405(g). If the Commissioner's findings are supported by substantial evidence, based upon the record as a whole, then these findings are conclusive. Id. II. REVIEW OF THE RECORD
Plaintiff contends that the ALJ erred by failing to properly consider: (1) the opinion of Dr. James Head, Plaintiff's treating physician; (2) the opinion of Dr. Dorothy Lambert, Plaintiff's consultative psychological examiner; and (3) Plaintiff's "obstructive sleep apnea, obesity, and use of a cane" Docket No. 12-1. Accordingly, Plaintiff maintains that, pursuant to 42 U.S.C. § 405(g), the Commissioner's decision should be reversed, or in the alternative, remanded. Id. Sentence four of § 405(g) states as follows:
1. Opinion of Dr. James Head, Plaintiff's Treating Physician
Plaintiff argues that the ALJ failed to properly evaluate the opinion of Dr. James Head, his treating physician. Docket No. 12-1 at 11. Plaintiff contends that Dr. Head's treatment notes document consistent findings that support Plaintiff's disability. Id. at 12, citing 214-221, 254-278, 293-333. Plaintiff further contends that Dr. Head's June 2012 letter stating that Plaintiff is unable to work as a result of his bilateral hip pain and low back pain that worsens with activity, as well as his anxiety, depression, difficulty completing tasks, and inability to focus, also supports his disability. Id., citing 296. Plaintiff maintains, "Despite this extremely significant evidence regarding the severity of Plaintiff's impairments, the ALJ completely rejected Dr. Head's opinion in his decision, assigning it little weight' without consideration of all the regulatory factors." Id., citing 21. Plaintiff argues that the ALJ erroneously accorded Dr. Head's opinion "little weight" and failed to explain his reasoning for discounting this opinion, even though Dr. Head's letter was consistent with his treatment notes and with the evidence of record. Id. at 13-14.
Plaintiff further asserts that the ALJ erred when he accepted Dr. Head's mental health recommendations but rejected his physical health recommendations, because Dr. Head is not a mental health specialist. Id. at 14-15. Plaintiff additionally asserts that the ALJ inexplicitly relied upon Dr. Head's September 2010 opinion, but rejected his updated June 2012 opinion, which opined greater mental restrictions for Plaintiff. Id. Plaintiff contends that the ALJ failed to provide a reasonable explanation for rejecting Dr. Head's updated opinion, particularly in light of the fact that the updated opinion is supported by the opinion of the consultative psychological examiner and by the State agency consultants' opinions, which relied upon Dr. Head's September 2010 opinion. Id. Plaintiff also argues that the ALJ "failed to consider the length and nature of the treatment relationship between [Plaintiff] and Dr. Head." Id. Plaintiff maintains that: (1) Dr. Head has been his treating physician throughout the period under review; (2) his opinion is not inconsistent with the evidence of record; and (3) the medical records provide substantial support for his opinion." Id. Plaintiff asserts, therefore, that the ALJ should have accorded Dr. Head's opinion "controlling weight, " "or, at the very least, [] deference." Id. Defendant responds that the ALJ properly considered the opinions of Dr. Head. Docket No. 13 at 8-10. Defendant notes first that Dr. Head's September 2010 opinion indicated that Plaintiff had no work-related limitations, but his June 2012 opinion indicated that Plaintiff was "unable to work." Id. at 8. Defendant contends that: (1) Dr. Head's opinion and treatment notes were reviewed by other physicians of record who also opined that Plaintiff could work; (2) the ALJ properly weighed the different medical opinions of record and explained his rationale for the weight accorded to each; and (3) the ALJ properly concluded that Plaintiff could perform a range of light work. Id. at 8-9.
Defendant also responds that, because Dr. Head is an "acceptable medical source, " he is "qualified" to provide a medical opinion regarding Plaintiff's mental limitations. Id. at 10. Defendant notes that Dr. Head is the only physician that treated Plaintiff for mental impairments, and argues, "While Plaintiff claims that the doctor is unqualified to provide an opinion, he apparently feels that the doctor is qualified to treat him for that impairment." Id. Defendant further argues that Dr. Head primarily treated Plaintiff for mental impairments, as he generally referred Plaintiff to other physicians to treat his physical impairments and his treatment notes "reveal minimal to no objective findings regarding Plaintiff's allegedly disabling physical impairments." Id. Defendant additionally contends that the ALJ did not "completely reject" Dr. Head's June 2012 opinion that Plaintiff was "unable to work, " but simply accorded it "little weight" because it was not supported by the medical records, and because the ability to work is an issue reserved for the Commissioner, as Plaintiff's employability involves knowledge regarding vocational factors that are outside of Dr. Head's expertise. Id. at 12-13. Defendant also responds that, in acknowledging that "Dr. Head was Plaintiff's treating primary care provider, " discussing the frequency of treatment by Dr. Head, and explaining why he discounted Dr. Head's opinion, the ALJ properly considered the requisite regulatory factors. Id. at 13-14. Defendant notes that the ALJ can permissibly reference evidence set forth in an earlier place in his opinion, and is not required to "restat[e] the same evidence twice." Id. Plaintiff, in his Reply, argues that "neither Defendant nor the ALJ stated how any weight whatsoever was given to [Dr. Head's June 2012] opinion or how that was accounted for in his decision." Docket No. 16 at 3. Plaintiff also replies that the ALJ did not discuss the frequency of Dr. Head's treatment, but rather, "merely cites to the ALJ's discussion of the treatment notes, which do not address how frequently or how long [Plaintiff] treated with Dr. Head." Id. Plaintiff further replies that the ALJ cannot simply state that Dr. Head's opinion is "unsupported by the record as a whole outlined above, " but instead, must specifically identify the inconsistencies or findings which the ALJ felt were contrary to Dr. Head's opinion. Id. at 3-4. Finally, Plaintiff replies that neither Defendant nor the ALJ provided a reasonable explanation for rejecting Dr. Head's June 2012 opinion that Plaintiff was unable to focus and had difficulty completing tasks, when that opinion is supported by the consultative psychological examiner. Id. at 4.
Regardless of its source, we will evaluate every medical opinion we receive. Unless we give a treating source's opinion controlling weight under paragraph (d)(2) of this section, we consider all of the following factors in deciding the weight we give to any medical opinion.
(2) Treatment relationship. Generally, we give more weight to opinions from your treating sources, since these sources are likely to be the medical professionals most able to provide a detailed, longitudinal picture of your medical impairment(s) and may bring a unique perspective to the medical evidence that cannot be obtained from the objective medical findings alone or from reports of individual examinations, such as consultative examinations or brief hospitalizations. If we find that a treating source's opinion on the issue(s) of the nature and severity of your impairment(s) is well-supported by medically acceptable clinical and laboratory diagnostic techniques and is not inconsistent with the other substantial evidence in your case record, we will give it controlling weight. When we do not give the treating source's opinion controlling weight, we apply the factors listed in paragraphs (d)(2)(i) and (d)(2)(ii) of this section, as well as the factors in paragraphs (d)(3) through (d)(6) of this section in determining the weight to give the opinion....
(3) Supportability. The more a medical source presents relevant evidence to support an opinion, particularly medical signs and laboratory findings, the more weight we will give that opinion. The better an explanation a source provides for an opinion, the more weight we will give that opinion....
(5) Specialization. We generally give more weight to the opinion of a specialist about medical issues related to his or her area of specialty than to the opinion of a source who is not a specialist....
20 CFR § 416.927(d) (emphasis added). See also 20 CFR § 404.1527(d).
The ALJ must articulate the reasons underlying his decision to give a medical opinion a specific amount of weight.[3] See, e.g., 20 CFR § 404.1527(d); Allen v. Commissioner, 561 F.3d 646 (6th Cir. 2009); Wilson v. Commissioner, 378 F.3d 541, 544 (6th Cir. 2004). The reasons must be supported by the evidence and must be sufficiently specific so as to make clear to any subsequent reviewers the weight the ALJ gave to the treating source medical opinion and the reasons for that weight. SSR 96-2p.
The Sixth Circuit has held that, "provided that they are based on sufficient medical data, the medical opinions and diagnoses of treating physicians are generally accorded substantial deference, and if the opinions are uncontradicted, complete deference." Howard v. Commissioner, 276 F.3d 235, 240 (6th Cir. 2002) ( quoting Harris v. Heckler, 756 F.3d 431, 435 (6th Cir. 1985)). If the ALJ rejects the opinion of a treating source, he is required to articulate some basis for rejecting the opinion. Shelman v. Heckler, 821 F.2d 316, 321 (6th Cir. 1987). The Code of Federal Regulations defines a "treating source" as:
Acknowledging that Dr. Head has been Plaintiff's primary care physician since April 2010, the ALJ comprehensively discussed Plaintiff's treatment history with Dr. Head as follows:
In April 2010, the claimant established primary care with James Hand, [4] M.D., and reported dizziness when bending and turning and pain in his right hip. Lumbar spine imaging showed early degenerative changes. The claimant also reported some depression and anxiety symptoms. He reported sleeping 5-6 hours per night. The medications Lexapro and Zipsor were prescribed (Exhibit 1F).
During June 2010, the claimant had a follow up with Dr. Hand. He reported intermittent back pain and chronic fatigue. He stated that the medications Lexapro, Zipsor, and Mobic were not very helpful to his depression or back pain. An exam documented no abnormal findings. The dosage of Lexapro was increased to 30 mg daily and the medication Lodine XR 600 mg twice a day was prescribed (Exhibits 7F, 8F).
During July 2010, the claimant reported only mild symptom relief with Lexapro, so Cymbalta 30 mg daily was prescribed instead. He reported that Lodine and Mobic provided no back pain relief; however, no new medication was prescribed for back pain. His weight was 336 pounds (Exhibit 7F)....
By August 2010, the claimant reported that Cymbalta was working better and helping more. The dosage was increased to 60 mg. Again, Dr. Hand prescribed no specific medication for back pain (Exhibit 7F)....
In September 2010, the claimant reported to Dr. Hand that Cymbalta worked well but that he felt depressed "every once in a while." No medication changes were made (Exhibit 7F).
During November and December 2010, the claimant reported no improvement in his back and hip pain. He requested a letter from Dr. Hand regarding disability. His weight was noted at 350 pounds. He was encouraged to continue Cymbalta and Ibuprofen 800 mg three times a day (Exhibit 7F)....
During 2011, the claimant received refills of Cymbalta from Dr. Hand during March and June. In addition, the medication Ketoprofen 75 mg twice a day was prescribed for pain (Exhibit 13F).
In November 2011, the claimant reported increased back pain, and still only tenderness was noted on exam. Treatment consisted of Tramadol 37.5 mg three times a day (Exhibit 13F).
... At a follow up appointment [to Plaintiff's June 13, 2012 emergency room visit for left hip pain], he was referred to orthopedics and given a trial of Hydrocodone 7.5 mg twice a day (Exhibit[] 13F...)
TR 18-20, citing 254-268, 296-300 (footnote added).
The ALJ discussed Dr. Head's June 2012 letter opining that Plaintiff was unable to work as follows:
In June 2012, Dr. Head wrote a letter, which stated that the claimant was unable to work due to bilateral hip and low back pain that worsened with activity (Exhibit 13F). The undersigned accords little weight to this statement. It provides no specific limitations, and the objective record fails to support that the claimant is unable to perform any work activity. All physical exams fail to show any abnormal findings. In fact, exams consistently show intact sensation, normal motor strength in all extremities, normal gait, intact coordination, and no tremor (Exhibit 8F).
TR 21, citing 269-278, 296-300.
The ALJ also noted Dr. Head's June 2012 opinion regarding Plaintiff's mental impairments:
In June 2012, Dr. Head wrote a letter, which stated that the claimant was unable to work due to anxiety and depression and that he was unable to focus or complete tasks (Exhibit 13F). This letter has been accorded little weight in this decision. It is simply unsupported by the record as a whole outlined above.
TR 23, citing 296-300.
As can be seen, the ALJ: (1) acknowledged that Dr. Head was Plaintiff's primary care physician beginning in April 2010; (2) throughly reviewed and discussed Plaintiff's treatment with Dr. Head dating from April 2010 onward; and (3) appropriately discussed the June 2012 letter from Dr. Head in which Dr. Head noted Plaintiff's inability to focus or complete tasks and opined that Plaintiff was unable to work due to anxiety, depression, and bilateral hip and low back pain that worsened with activity. The ALJ explained that he discounted Dr. Head's June 2012 letter because it did not list any "specific limitations, " and it is unsupported by the evidence of record. Id. Throughout his decision, the ALJ specifically discusses the evidence that is contrary to Dr. Head's June 2012 opinion. See TR 14-25.[5] As the Regulations state, the ALJ is not required to give controlling weight to a treating physician's evaluation when that evaluation is inconsistent with other substantial evidence in the record. See 20 CFR § 416.927(d)(2) and 20 CFR § 404.1527(d)(2). Instead, when there is contradictory evidence, the treating physician's opinion is weighed against the contradictory evidence under the criteria listed above. Id. When the opinions are inconsistent with each other, the final decision regarding the weight to be given to the differing opinions lies with the Commissioner. 20 CFR § 416.927(e)(2). The ALJ's discussion of Dr. Head's treatment and opinions of Plaintiff was therefore proper.
Additionally, the ultimate determination of Plaintiff's ability to work is an issue reserved to the Commissioner; thus, a treating physician's opinion that a plaintiff is unable to work is not binding. See e.g. 20 CFR 404.1527(d)(1); King v. Heckler, 742 F.2d 968, 973 (1984) (finding that because a finding of disability requires consideration of medical and vocational information, the Secretary is not bound by a physician's finding of disability). The ALJ was not bound to accept Dr. Head's opinion that Plaintiff was unable to work, as this is not his determination to make; thus, Plaintiff's argument fails.
Plaintiff also argues that the ALJ erred in relying upon a September 2010 letter written by Dr. Head regarding Plaintiff's mental health. Docket No. 12-1 at 14-15. The ALJ summarized this September 2010 letter from Dr. Head as follows:
The residual functional capacity is further supported by a letter from Dr. Head in September 2010, wherein he reported that the claimant had adequate memory and social ability but moderate impairment in concentration. However, the claimant could remember and carry out simple, 1-2 step instructions and maintain a work routine without frequent breaks for stress-related reasons. He could maintain an ordinary work routine without inordinate supervision. He could maintain socially appropriate behavior, hygiene, and grooming. He could respond appropriately to normal stress and routine changes. He could care for self and maintain independence in daily living tasks on a sustained basis. He could maintain a work schedule without missing frequently due to psychological issues. He could manage his own funds (Exhibit 7F).
TR 22-23, citing 254-268.
Although Plaintiff claims that the ALJ erred in relying on this mental health evaluation because Dr. Head is not a mental health specialist, the Regulations do not so proscribe. Rather, while the Regulations do provide that more weight is generally given to the opinion of a specialist about medical issues related to his or her area of specialty than to the opinion of a source who is not a specialist, they do not preclude acceptance of an opinion rendered by an acceptable medical source who is not a specialist. 20 CFR § 416.927(d); 20 CFR § 404.1527(d). In fact, the Regulations also provide that more weight is generally given to the opinion of a treating physician than a non-treating physician, and that all evidence is to be considered. Id. Dr. Head is Plaintiff's treating physician and is an acceptable medical source who is qualified to render an opinion that is to be considered by the ALJ and accorded weight as the ALJ deems appropriate in light of the record before him.
The ALJ in the case at bar reviewed and considered Plaintiff's mental health treatment history with Dr. Head and Dr. Head's September 2010 letter concerning Plaintiff's mental health. He ultimately concluded that Dr. Head's September 2010 letter was consistent with the record and with the residual functional capacity he assigned. TR 22. The ALJ's consideration of Dr. Head's September 2010 letter was proper. Plaintiff's argument on this point fails.
2. Opinion of Dr. Dorothy Lambert, Plaintiff's Consultative Psychological Examiner
Plaintiff argues that the ALJ improperly evaluated the opinion of the independent consultative medical examiner, Dr. Dorothy Lambert, by "fail[ing] to state or make clear the weight given to this opinion in his decision." Docket No. 12-1 at 9-10. Plaintiff argues that Dr. Lambert assessed him with having a marked impairment in his ability to react to changes, which supports a finding of disability. Id. at 10. Plaintiff notes that the ALJ "failed to provide any statement or rationale for discrediting Dr. Lambert's opinion, and further failed to address or resolve the significant inconsistencies between this opinion and his decision findings." Id. Plaintiff also argues that the ALJ erred by accepting the opinions of "reviewing, non-examining" physicians over Dr. Lambert's opinion, because more weight is generally given to the opinion of an examining source than to a non-examining source. Id., citing 20 CFR 404.1527(c)(1). Additionally, as noted in the statement of error above, Plaintiff contends that the ALJ erred in according more weight to the opinion of Dr. Head concerning Plaintiff's mental impairments and their resulting limitations than to that of Dr. Lambert, when Dr. Lambert is a mental health specialist. Id. Plaintiff notes that because Dr. Lambert's opinion is inconsistent with the ALJ's RFC findings, and the ALJ failed to resolve "these significant inconsistencies in his decision, " the ALJ's opinion is "erroneous, without merit, and lack[s] the support of substantial evidence." Id. at 11.
Defendant responds that the ALJ "properly considered Dr. Lambert's opinion in evaluating the record as a whole." Docket No. 13 at 10. Defendant argues that: (1) Dr. Lambert's assigned GAF score of 55 is inconsistent with her opinion that Plaintiff has "marked impairments"; (2) she did not review any of Plaintiff's previous psychiatric records; and (3) Plaintiff's subsequent medical records "showed no significant mental abnormalities." Id. at 11. Defendant notes that the ALJ followed Dr. Lambert's "instructions to consider her information in conjunction with all available information, '" and contends that the ALJ's findings are consistent with the record as a whole. Id. Defendant further responds that Drs. Lawrence and Berkowitz, the State agency medical consultants who reviewed Plaintiff's medical records in their entirety, including Dr. Lambert's evaluation, ultimately concluded that Dr. Lambert's restrictions were entitled to less weight than Dr. Head's opinion. Id. at 12. Defendant essentially contends that the ALJ's acceptance of the opinions of the State agency medical consultants over that of Dr. Lambert was proper because the State agency medical consultants based their opinions on review of the complete record before them, whereas Dr. Lambert did not, and because their opinions were consistent with, and supported by, the evidence. Id. Plaintiff, in his Reply, asserts that Defendant has misstated his argument on this point. Docket No. 16 at 1. Plaintiff clarifies that his contention is not that the ALJ erred in giving no weight to Dr. Lambert's opinion, but rather, that, although the ALJ acknowledged Dr. Lambert's opinion, he failed to: (1) address it; (2) state the weight that it was accorded; (3) provide any statement or rationale for discrediting it; and (4) address or resolve the "significant inconsistencies" between it and the ALJ's findings. Id. at 1-2. Plaintiff argues that the explanation proffered by Defendant against Dr. Lambert's assessment that Plaintiff was "markedly impaired" in his ability to react to changes is Defendant's explanation, not the ALJ's. Id. at 2. Plaintiff contends that "the ALJ made no such attempt whatsoever to explain the weight given to Dr. Lambert's opinion or address this marked limitation in reacting to changes." Id. Plaintiff contends that this "represents clear error, " such that the ALJ failed to properly evaluate Dr. Lambert's opinion. Id. The ALJ addressed Dr. Lambert's consultative examination findings as follows:
Regarding mental limitations, a psychological consultative examination was performed in November 2010 by Dorothy Lambert, Ph.D., wherein the claimant drove himself and arrived alone and on time. His appearance was described as neat and casual. The claimant was taking Cymbalta 60 mg nightly for depression. He was described as articulate, alert, and cooperative. His mood was calm, and his affect was polite. Occasional suicidal ideation was noted. He reported cutting himself when angry or depressed. He reported associating with his family and his girlfriend. Daily activities consisted of working in the yard and performing household chores with frequent rest periods. He could prepare simple meals, run errands, watch television, get on the computer, and read. The diagnostic impressions were major depressive disorder, moderate, recurrent and anxiety disorder not otherwise specified, and personality disorder not otherwise specified with borderline and social avoidant features. His Global Assessment of Functioning score was estimated at 55. Dr. Lambert stated that the claimant was not impaired in the ability to understand and remember short work-like procedures and locations. He had moderate impairment in concentration and persistence and in his ability to interact with others. Marked limitations were noted in his ability to react to changes (Exhibit 4F).
TR 21, citing 229-235.
The ALJ also summarized the opinions of Drs. Lawrence and Berkowitz, the State agency non-examining, reviewing psychological consultants in this action:
State agency psychological consultants reported that the claimant has mild restriction of activities of daily living; mild difficulties maintaining social functioning; moderate difficulties in maintaining concentration, persistence or pace; and has experienced no episodes of decompensation. More specifically, moderate limitations were noted in his ability to understand and remember detailed instructions; carry out detailed instructions; maintain attention and concentration for extended periods; complete a normal workday and workweek without interruptions from psychologically based symptoms and to perform at a consistent pace without an unreasonable number and length of rest periods; interact appropriately with the general public; respond appropriately to changes in the work setting; and set realistic goals or make plans independently of others (Exhibits 5F, 6F).
Despite these moderate limitations, Dr. Lawrence reported that the claimant could understand and remember simple and detailed instructions; persist with simple and detailed tasks and maintain a consistent pace with normal breaks; maintain attention and concentration for two hours with normal breaks; relate appropriately to peers and supervisors; infrequently interact with the public; adapt to gradual and infrequent changes; and set short-term goals (Exhibit 6F).
TR 21-22, citing 236-249, 250-253.
Ultimately, the ALJ found:
In activities of daily living, the claimant has mild restriction. Activities of daily living were reported as watching television, playing video games, running errands, performing personal care tasks, preparing quick and simple meals, sweeping/mopping floors, vacuuming, mowing, doing laundry, shopping in stores and via computer, managing his meager finances, walking around mall for exercise, and occasionally performing car maintenance. He requires no special reminders for medication, grooming, or appointments. He drives an automobile and goes out alone. He can follow written and spoken instructions. He handles stress well (Exhibits 4E, 8E).
In social functioning, the claimant has mild difficulties. The claimant has a fiance. He spends time with family and talks to others via the computer. He gets along well with authority figures, family, friends, and neighbors (Exhibits 4E, 8E).
With regard to concentration, persistence or pace, the claimant has moderate difficulties. This finding is supported by the consultative examiner (Exhibit 4F). However, marked limitation is not warranted in this area. He reports that he spends time watching television, playing video games, running errands, performing personal care tasks, preparing meals, doing household chores, shopping in stores and via computer, and managing his finances. He requires no special reminders. He drives and goes out alone. He can follow written and spoken instructions, and handles stress well (Exhibits 4E, 8E).
As for episodes of decompensation, the claimant has experienced no episodes of decompensation, which have been of extended duration. There are no allegations of such episodes and none was found in the record.
... Discussed in detail below, these findings are supported by the opinion of the state agency psychological consultant (Exhibit 5F).
TR 15-16, citing 143-150, 168-175, 229-235, 236-249.
While discussing the evidence of record, the ALJ explained:
After a thorough consideration, the undersigned found only mild social limitations, despite other moderate findings. This finding is based on the claimant's testimony that he did not have any problems getting along with others. He has a fiance. In addition, he [has] not been on psychotropic medications for a while. This is due to finances, but despite the reason, the claimant has apparently been able to function well, even without medication.
Again, activities of daily living support the residual functional capacity, as the claimant watches television, plays video games, runs errands, performs personal care tasks, prepares quick and simple meals, does household chores including laundry, shops in stores and via computer, manages his meager finances, walks around mall for exercise, and occasionally performs car maintenance. The claimant requires no special reminders for medication, grooming, or appointments. He can drive an automobile, go out alone, and ride with others. He spends time with family and talks to others via computer. He can follow written and spoken instructions. He gets along well with authority figures, family, friends, and neighbors. He handles stress well (Exhibits 4E, 8E).
In addition, mental status exams throughout 2010, 2011, and 2012 fail to indicate marked mental limitations (Exhibit 2F, 3F, 8F, 12F, 14F). In October 2010, he drove himself to an appointment and was alone. His general appearance, degree of self-care, attitude, and degree of cooperation were good. He reported that his thinking and behavior were normal. He was thought to have normal intellectual functioning and normal speech. He was cooperative and reliable (Exhibit 3F). In June 2012, the claimant was observed to have appropriate demeanor and interpersonal interaction (Exhibit 14F).
TR 22, citing 143-150, 168-175, 214-221, 222-228, 269-278, 293-295, 301-333.
As has been demonstrated, the ALJ reviewed all of the medical and testimonial evidence of record, including the opinion rendered by Dr. Lambert, and reached a reasoned decision that was supported by the evidence of record. While Dr. Lambert did opine that Plaintiff had marked limitations in his ability to react to changes, the ALJ was not bound to blindly accept that finding, particularly because there was conflicting evidence in the record. As discussed in the previous statement of error, when there is conflicting evidence in the record, it is the ALJ's responsibility to consider the evidence in its entirety and reach a reasoned decision, as the ultimate decision regarding the weight to be accorded to the evidence lies with the ALJ. As can be seen in the quoted passages above, the ALJ explicitly discussed the conflicting opinion and testimonial evidence and explained the rationale for his decision; his decision was supported by substantial evidence, and his consideration of Dr. Lambert's opinion was proper. Plaintiff's argument on this point fails.
3. Plaintiff's Severe Impairments and Residual Functional Capacity
Plaintiff argues that the ALJ erred by finding his obesity to be a severe impairment but not providing "sufficient limitations in his RFC assessment" to account for his obesity. Docket No. 12-1 at 16. Specifically, Plaintiff argues that his "extreme morbid obesity and severe bilateral hip impairments would certainly be expected to result in limitations which would preclude his ability to be on his feet for half of the workday, " and that "these impairments combined with his extreme morbid obesity would also certainly be expected to limit the amount of time he could be on his feet uninterrupted." Id., citing 16. Plaintiff contends that because the ALJ failed to provide any limitations in his RFC that would limit the amount of time Plaintiff could stand uninterrupted, the ALJ failed to sufficiently account for Plaintiff's morbid obesity in his decision. Id. Plaintiff further argues that the ALJ erred in not finding Plaintiff's obstructive sleep apnea to be a severe impairment or accounting for it in his RFC assessment. Id. Specifically, Plaintiff notes that the ALJ acknowledged his diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea, but takes issue with the ALJ's statement that a "2010 sleep study documented excellent response to CPAP therapy' (Exhibits 1F, 8F), " because "this same sleep study showed that, despite improvement with CPAP titration, his sleep architecture was still abnormal with absent deep and decreased REM sleep." Id. at 16-17, citing 14, 195, 199-202. Plaintiff contends that subsequent treatment notes show that he was unable to tolerate the CPAP machine, despite trying different masks, and that he continued to complain of fatigue and difficulty breathing when asleep. Id. at 17, citing 258, 265, 269, 293, 294, 324-326. Plaintiff argues, therefore, that the ALJ should have found his obstructive sleep apnea to be a severe impairment and have assessed the resulting limitations. Id. Plaintiff also argues that, although the ALJ acknowledged his use of a cane, the ALJ failed to address Plaintiff's use of a cane or account for it in his RFC finding. Id. Plaintiff notes that his need for a cane is significant due to his documented "impairments of the bilateral hips and his extreme morbid obesity." Id. Plaintiff argues that because of these impairments, it would be difficult "to be on his feet for at least half of the workday and to use his upper extremities while on his feet, ... [and] to perform the postural activities assessed in this ALJ's RFC finding." Id. Plaintiff summarizes his argument on this point: "the ALJ failed to include sufficient limitations in his RFC finding which result from [his] morbid obesity, OSA [obstructive sleep apnea] and use of a cane, " such that the ALJ's "RFC finding and decision lack the support of substantial evidence." Id. at 18.
Defendant responds that "the ALJ properly found Plaintiff's obstructive sleep apnea to be a nonsevere impairment, " as "Plaintiff did not comply with his CPAP machine or instructions to follow up with his specialist." Docket No. 13 at 14, citing 14-15. Defendant asserts that the ALJ nonetheless accounted for "Plaintiff's resulting fatigue" in his RFC assessment. Id., citing 15.
With regard to obesity, Defendant contends that the ALJ considered Plaintiff's obesity, found it to be a severe impairment, recognized that the State agency medical consultant's limitations were based "primarily" on Plaintiff's obesity, imposed greater limitations specifically because of Plaintiff's obesity, and explicitly noted that he accounted for it in his RFC findings. Id. at 15, citing 14, 17, 20, 21.
As to his use of a cane, Defendant notes that Plaintiff was not prescribed a cane by a medical professional, only a single medical record documents Plaintiff's use of a cane, and the ALJ considered and accounted for Plaintiff's hip problems in his RFC finding by limiting him to standing/walking for four hours. Id., citing 21, 149, 174, 225, 315. Defendant notes that Plaintiff has identified no medical opinion stating that he is incapable of standing/walking for four hours because of his hips. Id. Overall, Defendant argues that because "the ALJ properly considered such factors as Plaintiff's medical treatment, the medical evidence, his daily activities, and the medical opinions, " his finding that Plaintiff could perform a range of light work is supported by substantial evidence and should be affirmed. Id. Plaintiff's Reply incorporates by reference his initial arguments on this point. Docket No. 16 at 4.
"Residual Functional Capacity" is defined as the "maximum degree to which the individual retains the capacity for sustained performance of the physical-mental requirements of jobs." 20 CFR Pt. 404, Subpt. P, App. 2 § 200.00(c). With regard to the evaluation of physical abilities in determining a claimant's RFC, the Regulations state:
20 CFR § 404.1545(b).
After consideration of the entire record, the ALJ determined that Plaintiff retained the RFC "to perform light work as defined in 20 CFR 404.1567(b) except that he can stand and/or walk four hours in an eight-hour workday; only occasionally balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, and crawl; never climb ladders/ropes/scaffolds; have no exposure to unprotected heights or unguarded, moving machinery; understand, remember, and carry out short, routine, repetitive tasks but not complex work; and workplace changes should be gradual and infrequent." TR 16.
In reaching the above conclusion regarding the claimant's residual functional capacity, the undersigned has considered the information and allegations contained within the Disability Reports, Function Report, Work History Reports, and Medication List completed by and on behalf of the claimant (Exhibits 1E-13E). Additionally, the undersigned has considered the claimant's allegations at the hearing regarding disabling symptoms. The undersigned has not discounted such allegations solely on the basis of the absence or minimal nature of the objective medical record. Rather, the undersigned has afforded full consideration to all of the evidence presented relating to subjective complaints, including, as appropriate and applicable herein, the claimant's prior work record and observations by third parties and treating and examining physicians...
TR 17, citing 121-190.
Explaining the environmental and postural limitations he assigned Plaintiff in his RFC assessment, the ALJ stated:
The undersigned finds the claimant's allegations are credible insofar as they are consistent with the limited range of light work cited above. The environmental limitations regarding hazards/heights are based on the claimant's report[s] of dizziness when bending or turning a lot (Exhibit 7, page 12). While the consultative examiner found no limitations based on his limited physical exam findings, the state consultant reported medium exertional limitations and mostly frequent postural activities. However, postural[s] have been reduced to occasional due to obesity, degenerative disc disease, and osteoarthritis. In addition, the stand/walk limit of 4 hours is based on bilateral hip osteoarthritis.
TR 21, citing 254-268.
As can be seen, the specifically addressed the limitations that he found in his RFC assessment and explained how he determined them. Contrary to Plaintiff's assertion that the ALJ did not sufficiently account for his obesity and use of a cane in his RFC finding, the ALJ explicitly stated that he reduced the Plaintiff's postural limitations to account for Plaintiff's obesity, degenerative disc disease, and bilateral hip osteoarthritis, and he limited Plaintiff to standing or walking for four hours to accommodate his bilateral hip osteoarthiritis.
Moreover, when reviewing the record, the ALJ specifically noted Plaintiff's weight as ranging from 336 pounds to 382 pounds, at 5'7" tall. TR 17-20. The ALJ also repeatedly discussed the evidence reflecting the difficulty Plaintiff faced due to his obesity, including his pain and reported physical limitations, his slightly decreased gait secondary to obesity, and the fact that he "was observed to walk with a waddling gait due to obesity." Id. The ALJ also noted physicians' repeated counsel to Plaintiff to lose weight, and he noted that the postural limitations opined by the medical consultants were "based primarily on obesity." Id. With regard to Plaintiff's use of a cane, the ALJ specifically recounted the only medical record before him that noted Plaintiff's use of a cane, but also recounted that that same record contained a physical examination performed on the same day that showed normal gait, good coordination, normal sensation, and normal strength. TR 20, referencing TR 315-317. As the ALJ discussed, Plaintiff's medical records repeatedly reveal that Plaintiff was found to have a normal gait, normal motor strength, and intact sensation. TR 17-20. The ALJ further noted that, although Plaintiff was "observed to walk with a waddling gate due to obesity, " "he did not limp." TR 19.
The ALJ summarized:
In sum, the record documents the claimant's severe impairments of obesity, degenerative disc disease, osteoarthritis of the hips, major depressive disorder, and anxiety disorder. Consideration has been given to these impairments as reflected in the residual functional capacity. However, the functional restrictions alleged by the claimant are not entirely credible, as they have been found to be disproportionate to the clinical findings. The claimant's subjective complaints have been accepted, as far as they were supported by the objective evidence and the record as a whole. His impairments are limiting; however, not disabling. The record simply does not support the claimant's allegations of disability.
The ALJ properly considered the evidence before him and accounted for limitations in Plaintiff's RFC that he deemed were consistent with the evidence of the record as a whole. Plaintiff's arguments concerning the ALJ's consideration of his obesity and use of a cane fail.
Turning to Plaintiff's contention that the ALJ erred in not finding Plaintiff's obstructive sleep apnea to be a severe impairment or accounting for it in his RFC, the ALJ in the instant action discussed Plaintiff's obstructive sleep apnea as follows:
In addition to the severe impairment[s] listed above, the record reveals a diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea. A 2010 sleep study documented "excellent response to CPAP therapy" (Exhibits 1F, 8F). However, the claimant refuses to wear the CPAP mask. Although he has been referred to specialists, the record documents no further treatment, only complaints regarding the mask and of fatigue. Based on this evidence, the undersigned finds this impairment to be non-severe, as the evidence fails to establish that the claimant's obstructive sleep apnea would have more than a minimal impact on his ability to perform basic work activity. However, the allegations of fatigue have been considered in the function-by-function analysis below.
TR 14-15, citing 194-213, 269-278.
As can be seen, the ALJ considered the records regarding Plaintiff's obstructive sleep apnea, but did not find it to be a severe impairment because Plaintiff refused to comply with treatment that helped this impairment, because Plaintiff did not seek follow up treatment after he decided to quit using his CPAP mask, and because the evidence fails to demonstrate that it would have more than a minimal impact on his ability to perform basic work activity. Id. Accordingly, the ALJ explained his rationale for not finding Plaintiff's obstructive sleep apnea to be a severe impairment.
Additionally, the ALJ explicitly stated that he considered Plaintiff's allegations of fatigue when reaching his overall RFC assessment. Id. When discussing the evidence, the ALJ noted that: (1) Plaintiff "reported that fatigue and depression also limit his ability to complete tasks and to concentrate" (TR 17); (2) Plaintiff reported sleeping five to six hours per night (TR 18); (3) Plaintiff reported "chronic fatigue" (TR 19); and (4) at the reconsideration level, Plaintiff again reported fatigue (TR18). Plaintiff's argument that the ALJ failed to consider or account for the effects of Plaintiff's fatigue resulting from his obstructive sleep apnea in his RFC assessment is unsupported by the ALJ's decision.
As discussed above, the ALJ properly considered the objective and testimonial evidence of record when determining Plaintiff's "residual functional capacity for work activity on a regular and continuing basis." The ALJ reached a reasoned decision that was supported by substantial evidence in the record, and he appropriately explained his rationale for reaching his RFC determination. Plaintiff's argument fails.
For the reasons discussed above, the undersigned recommends that Plaintiff's Motion for Judgment on the Administrative Record be DENIED, and that the decision of the Commissioner be AFFIRMED.