Opinion ID: 1637264
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 7

Heading: Opinions about Nature and Extent of Disabilities

Text: Dr. Poetz concluded that Landman's shoulder injury caused her to be temporarily and totally disabled from July 14, 1999when she was referred by Dr. Mammen to Dr. Dusekuntil March 3, 2000. Dr. Poetz opined that this injury would be a hindrance or obstacle to re-employment in the open labor market. James England, a vocational rehabilitation expert, concurred in this opinion. Both also believed that Landman's weight was a hindrance to her re-employment. Dr. Poetz found that from March 18, 1999, to July 13, 1999, and from March 4, 2000, through July 20, 2000, Landman was temporarily and totally disabled due to her leg conditions. He and Dr. Altsheler both concluded that her leg condition had reached maximum medical improvement, that the venous stasis is permanent and that Landman will need continued care. Dr. Altsheler opined that Landman was permanently disabled from the leg condition alone, without considering her shoulder injury, obesity or anything else. Dr. Poetz believed Landman was unable to compete in the open labor market due to a combination of these disabilities. He considered the February 1999 injury synonymous with an occupational disease. England also believed that the leg condition combined with the pre-existing shoulder injury and obesity resulted in Landman's permanent and total disability. But he admitted that the predominant factor was the leg condition and resulting limitations. Having to keep your legs elevated in the air, he explained, did not fit with jobs in the regular working world.