Opinion ID: 688361
Heading Depth: 3
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: Residual Functional Capacity to do Medium Work

Text: 12 Because the ALJ found that Halper could not perform his past work, we must determine whether work exists in significant numbers that Halper can do. Gallant, 753 F.2d at 1452. Halper claims the Secretary erred in finding that he had the residual functional capacity to do medium work. 5 13 Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) is what claimant can still do despite his physical, mental, nonexertional and other limitations. 20 C.F.R. Sec.404.1545 (1988); Cooper, 880 F.2d at 1155 n. 5. 14 The ALJ concluded that Halper could not perform his past work, but could perform work at a medium level. 6 The ALJ considered Halper's chronic pulmonary obstructive disorder in determining that Halper could not be exposed to dust, fumes, or smoke. Halper's testimony that he can lift only 10 pounds is the only evidence of his lifting capacity. The ALJ found Halper's testimony regarding his inability to walk, sit, lift, and carry not credible. The ALJ stated that wide and varied activities of daily living belie [claimant's] inability to perform all basic work-related activities such as standing, walking, sitting, lifting, and carrying. 7 15 An ALJ can disregard a claimant's self-serving statements when they are unsupported by objective findings. Gallant, 753 F.2d at 1455. There was no medical evidence that Halper could not perform the lifting requirements of medium work. What the medical evidence does show is that Halper suffered from a hernia, which had healed, and tendinitis, which had resolved itself by July 1988. 16 Considering the evidence as a whole, we find that the Secretary's conclusion that Halper can perform medium work is supported by substantial evidence. 17 Having determined claimant's physical exertional level, the Secretary must determine how much claimant's residual functional capacity is further diminished by his mental impairment. DesRosiers, 846 F.2d at 577. 18 In rating the severity of his impairments, Halper's functional limitations fell into the slight to moderate categories. His mental disorder has been stabilized on lithium since March 1988, and both of Halper's VA treating physicians reported that Halper is capable of working. 19