Opinion ID: 584559
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: Proceedings Before the Appeals Council

Text: 25 Ms. Scivally timely requested review of the ALJ's determination before the Appeals Council, presenting additional evidence for consideration. She submitted a report from a Magnetic Resonance Scan taken on June 10, 1988, which showed that there was probably a small herniated disc at the L4-5 level. In addition, the picture identified a small bony spur at the L5-6 level with minimal compression on the thecal sac. A report from Dr. Irving C. Sherman, who examined Ms. Scivally on September 2, 1988, was also submitted. Dr. Sherman stated that her back displayed a full range of motion, but that extreme motion aggravated her lower back pain. Although he found no objective evidence of neurological defect, he stated that she did have a significant organic lesion impairing the mobility of her spine. He noted the degenerative conditions found by other medical personnel. He concluded that she could not perform her prior job, and opined that she could not perform any job involving physical activity with any consistency, projecting that Ms. Scivally could become a total invalid if required to do so. Finally, Ms. Scivally submitted a vocational evaluation prepared by Susan A. Entenberg, M.A. Ms. Entenberg based her opinion on the medical reports from Dr. Elyea, Dr. McNeill, Dr. Stone and Dr. Sherman, in addition to reading the ALJ's decision and Ms. Scivally's Post-Hearing Brief. Ms. Entenberg concluded that Ms. Scivally could not perform any jobs in the national economy on a substantial basis. 26 On May 22, 1989, the Appeals Council notified Ms. Scivally that her request for review was denied and that the ALJ's decision would stand as the final decision of the Secretary. The Appeals Council noted that the medical evidence showed only minimal compression on the thecal sac and the bulging or herniated disc was not significant. The Council also emphasized Dr. Sherman's observation that there was no objective evidence of organic neurological deficit. The Appeals Council concluded that no evidence supported Ms. Entenberg's conclusion that Ms. Scivally was unable even to engage in a full range of sedentary work due to the need to walk at will. 27 Ms. Scivally filed suit in the district court pursuant to 42 U.S.C. § 405(g) for judicial review of the Secretary's decision. The district court concluded that substantial evidence supported the Secretary's denial of benefits.