Opinion ID: 988224
Heading Depth: 3
Heading Rank: 1

Heading: 03 is inapplicable must be upheld.

Text: Finally, Hoke asserts that the ALJ's reliance on the MedicalVocational Guidelines (the Grids) to direct a conclusion that he retains the residual functional capacity to perform a full range of sedentary work was in error. See 20 C.F.R. Pt. 404, Subpt. P, App. 2 § 200 (1995). Specifically, Hoke argues that the medical evidence supports the conclusion that he cannot sit for any amount of time without pain. In addition, Hoke contends that the ALJ improperly found him to not be credible. Use of the Grids is proper if the ALJ finds a petitioner's residual functional capacity is not limited by nonexertional factors, such as pain. See Gory v. Schweiker, 712 F.2d 929 (4th Cir. 1983). Hoke's own subjective allegation that he is unable to work is insufficient, by itself, to establish disability. See Gross v. Heckler, 785 F.2d 1163, 1166 (4th Cir. 1986). However, if a physical condition that could reasonably be expected to cause pain is revealed by objective medical evidence, the ALJ must evaluate the disabling effects of the claimant's pain, as demonstrated through subjective evidence. Hyatt v. Sullivan, 899 F.2d 329, 337 (4th Cir. 1990). The ALJ is required to make credibility determinations about allegations of pain or other nonexertional disabilities. Hammond v. Heckler, 765 F.2d 424, 426 (4th Cir. 1985). However, such decisions must refer specifically to the evidence informing the ALJ's conclusion. Id. In this case, the ALJ conducted the proper analysis in a com- 5 prehensive fashion and cited substantial evidence to support his finding. The ALJ noted that Hoke's daily activities, infrequent and conservative treatment methods, and prescribed treatment for relief of pain did not support Hoke's claims of disabling pain. For instance, Hoke sought medical treatment very infrequently until just prior to his initial hearing for cessation of benefits. In addition, Hoke received only conservative treatment with mild pain medication. He did not require hospitalization, physical therapy, surgery, or other treatment. Furthermore, Hoke himself rated the intensity of pain in his right knee and hip at a 1 on a scale of 1 to 5, with 5 being the most intense pain. Additionally, Hoke's complaints were inconsistent. At the hearing, he testified that he was unable to work due solely to back pain, but no medical evidence supported a finding of a back impairment. Finally, Hoke testified that Escogesic and Flexeril completely alleviated his pain. Because the ALJ listed a specific evidentiary basis for the determination that Hoke was not credible, the ALJ was justified in discounting Hoke's complaints of nonexertional limitations. The ALJ further made specific findings regarding Hoke's residual functional capacity. Evidence before the ALJ demonstrated that while there are limitations on Hoke's ability to engage in employment, no treating physician placed any specific restrictions upon Hoke's daily activities which would prevent him from working. Further, no physician found limitations in Hoke's upper extremities or noted any significant sitting impairment. Simply stated, there was no testimony or evidence that Hoke's condition would significantly hinder his employment in a sedentary job. In fact, Dr. Marlowe released Hoke to return to all activities and work. While there is differing and contradictory testimony, substantial evidence supported the ALJ's finding that Hoke was not credible and suffered from no nonexertional disabilities. Therefore, the ALJ properly resorted to the Grids. Considering Hoke's age, education, past relevant work experience, and residual functional capacity for sedentary work, the Grids direct a conclusion that Hoke is not disabled within the meaning of the Social Security Act. 6 Because we find that substantial evidence supports the Secretary's decision that Hoke is no longer disabled, we affirm. We dispense with oral argument because the facts and legal contentions are adequately presented in the materials before the court and argument would not aid the decisional process. AFFIRMED 7