Opinion ID: 1035752
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 1

Heading: History of Physical Impairments

Text: In 1995, Kamann suffered a back injury while working as a stonemason and underwent two back surgeries within the next few years. Kamann claims the procedures were only partially successful and he has suffered continuous back pain 2 The Honorable Joan N. Ericksen, United States District Judge for the District of Minnesota, adopting the report and recommendations of the Honorable Arthur J. Boylan, United States Magistrate Judge for the District of Minnesota. -2- since then. Kamann also reports having been in a car accident in 2000 which hurt his neck, causing pain in his neck, shoulders, and hands. At the request of the SSA, Dr. Roger Ralston examined Kamann in November 2002 (in connection with an earlier application for disability benefits, which was also denied). Ralston diagnosed Kamann with chronic back pain syndrome, bilateral hand pain, and mild-to-moderate cervical pain consistent with cervical degenerative disc disease. Because Kamann exhibited no neurological loss, Ralston suggested he would benefit from additional surgery. Nevertheless, Kamann sought no treatment for his back for the next five years. In August 2008, Kamann saw Dr. George Rounds to have a disability form completed. Kamann complained of back pain. Rounds noted Kamann's gait suggested some stiffness or pain in his lower back. Concluding Kamann's pain stemmed from muscle traction, rather than spinal issues, Rounds referred Kamann to Dr. Paul Olson for pain relief procedures. Kamann saw Dr. Olson in October 2008. Kamann reported pain throughout his spine and significant headaches. He reported that any activity might cause discomfort, including lying down, getting up, twisting, bending, and standing. Olson administered an alpha stimulation trial, which significantly reduced Kamann's symptoms. Given the treatment's success, Olson recommended Kamann proceed with the treatments. Although Kamann's insurance approved him for ten treatments, Kamann only went back for two. Kamann returned to Dr. Rounds in February 2009 for a follow-up on his back pain. Rounds' notes indicate Kamann was applying for disability benefits and had been advised to see a neurosurgeon. Kamann called Rounds's office in November 2009 to request a referral to see a neurologist. He stated he had a social security hearing scheduled for January and needed the referral prior to the hearing. -3-