Opinion ID: 716356
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 3

Heading: Lee's subjective complaint of debilitating lower-back pain.

Text: 15 Lee argues that the ALJ improperly discredited his allegations of debilitating lower-back pain. 16 So long as the adjudicator makes specific findings that are supported by the record, the adjudicator may discredit the claimant's allegations based on inconsistencies in the testimony or on relevant character evidence. But the adjudicator may not discredit a claimant's testimony of pain and deny disability benefits solely because the degree of pain alleged by the claimant is not supported by objective medical evidence. 17 Bunnell v. Sullivan, 947 F.2d 341, 346-347 (9th Cir.1991). 18 Substantial evidence supports the ALJ's specific finding that Lee's allegation of disabling low back pain is not credible. The ALJ identified several factors beyond the lack of objective medical evidence which support this finding: 19 The medical evidence shows that the claimant does not have any neurological abnormalities that can be associated with low-back pain. Moreover, following the physical therapy in September 1990, he was asymptomatic. He has never been hospitalized, has never had surgery or traction, and has never had a body cast, braces or ambulatory aids prescribed. Most importantly, the only pain-relief treatment he receives is Motrin. It is also noted that despite his allegation of disabling low-back pain, the claimant worked as a mail handler for approximately 3 months in 1990 and afterwards received State Unemployment Benefits [for which he certified that he was willing and able to work.] 20 ALJ's Decision at 5. These factors support the ALJ's specific finding that Lee's allegation of debilitating pain is not credible. 21