Baker v. Social Security Administration Commissioner

Filing 15

MEMORANDUM OPINION. Signed by Honorable Erin L. Setser on March 6, 2012. (jn)

IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT
WESTERN DISTRICT OF ARKANSAS
FAYETTEVILLE DIVISION
LESLIE LYNN BAKER
V.

PLAINTIFF
NO. 10-5249

MICHAEL J. ASTRUE,
Commissioner of the Social Security Administration

DEFENDANT

MEMORANDUM OPINION
Plaintiff, Leslie Lynn Baker, brings this action pursuant to 42 U.S.C. § 405(g), seeking
judicial review of a decision of the Commissioner of the Social Security Administration
(Commissioner) denying his claims for a period of disability and disability insurance benefits
(DIB) and supplemental security income (SSI) benefits under the provisions of Titles II and XVI
of the Social Security Act (Act).1 In this judicial review, the Court must determine whether there
is substantial evidence in the administrative record to support the Commissioner’s decision. See
42 U.S.C. § 405(g).
I.

Procedural Background:
Plaintiff protectively filed his current applications for DIB and SSI on October 8, 2008,

alleging an inability to work due to a back injury. (Tr. 142,157). An administrative hearing was
held on September 30, 2009, at which Plaintiff appeared with counsel and testified. (Tr. 45-74).
By written decision dated March 19, 2010, the ALJ found that during the relevant time
period, Plaintiff had an impairment or combination of impairments that were severe 1

Although Plaintiff applied for both DIB and SSI, the ALJ’s decision addresses only the DIB application. In the
brief, Plaintiff’s attorney states that Plaintiff initiated this action for a judicial determination of his eligibility for
DIB and SSI. However, no further mention of SSI benefits was made. The ALJ’s analysis of Plaintiff’s DIB
application would apply equally to Plaintiff’s SSI application.

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degenerative disc disease of the lumbar spine. (Tr. 24). However, after reviewing all of the
evidence presented, she determined that Plaintiff’s impairments did not meet or equal the level
of severity of any impairment listed in the Listing of Impairments found in Appendix I, Subpart
P, Regulation No. 4. (Tr. 24). The ALJ found Plaintiff retained the residual functional capacity
(RFC) to:
perform less than the full range of light work as defined in 20 CFR 404.1567(b) except
that he can do no climbing of ladders, ramps and scaffolds and only occasionally can
climb ramps, stairs, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, and crawl. Additionally, the claimant
only frequently can push and pull with the lower left extremity.
(Tr. 25). With the help of a vocational expert (VE), the ALJ determined Plaintiff could perform
other work as a cashier, housekeeper, and hand packager. (Tr. 29).
Plaintiff then requested a review of the hearing decision by the Appeals Council, which
denied that request on October 26, 2010. (Tr. 1-4). Subsequently, Plaintiff filed this action.
(Doc. 1). This case is before the undersigned pursuant to the consent of the parties. (Doc. 7).
Both parties have filed appeal briefs, and the case is now ready for decision. (Docs. 13, 14).
II.

Evidence Presented:
Plaintiff was born in 1966, and completed the twelfth grade in school. (Tr. 142, 163).

He worked as a mechanic for a car dealer from 1997 to 2008, and an engine builder for an engine
remanufacturer for four years prior thereto. (Tr. 165). Between May 24, 2000 and December
27, 2002, Plaintiff was treated for various ailments, including hypertension, elevated lipids,
headaches, neck pain and abdominal pain. (Tr. 437-446). On February 6, 2002, a renal
ultrasound was performed, and on February 14, 2002, a CT of the abdomen revealed status post

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cholecystectomy;2 no evidence of a right renal mass; no calcifications were seen on the
unenhanced images; and the CT of the abdomen was otherwise normal. (Tr. 467).
On August 8, 2003, Plaintiff presented himself to Dr. Clinton C. Schmidt for evaluation
of stress. Dr. Schmidt’s impression was anxiety/stress/probable depression, and he prescribed
Lexapro for Plaintiff. (Tr. 436). On August 29, 2003, when Plaintiff next saw Dr. Schmidt, he
reported to Dr. Schmidt that the Lexapro really seemed to be beneficial. (Tr. 434).
On January 29, 2004, Plaintiff saw Dr. Schmidt, and reported that he had been under a
lot of stress and had responded well to Lexapro, 10 mg. a day. (Tr. 432). However, his wife
reported that one of the side effects was that he was too complacent. The impression was:
1.
2.
3.
4.

Elevated lipids
Hypertension - fairly well controlled
Umbilical hernia
He has had some anxiety

(Tr. 433).
On March 2, 2005, Plaintiff presented himself to Dr. Stephen P. Johnson at the
Fayetteville Diagnostic Clinic, with high blood pressure, and wanted to get back on Lexapro.
(Tr. 431). Thereafter, on March 8, 2005, Plaintiff began being treated by Dr. David W. Clay of
the Fayetteville Diagnostic Clinic, for a followup of his blood pressure. Dr. Clay’s impression
was hypertension and hyperlipidemia.3 (Tr. 430). On March 23, 2005, Dr. Clay reported that
Plaintiff had tolerated his Enalapril and Tricor well. (Tr. 428). On September 14, 2005, Plaintiff

2

Cholecystectomy - Surgical removal of the gallbladder. Dorland’s Illustrated Medical Dictionary 354 (31st ed.
2007).

3

Hyperlipidemia - A general term for elevated concentrations of any or all of the lipids in the plasma, such as
hypertriglyceridemia, hypercholesterolemia, and so on. See also table of hyperlipoproteinemias. Called also
hyperlipemia, lipemia, and lipidemia. Id. at 903.

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presented himself to Dr. Clay for followup of his hypertension and hyperlipidemia. Dr. Clay
reported that Plaintiff had no complaints. (Tr. 427). At that time, Plaintiff was taking
Hydrochlorothiazide, Tricor, Lisinopril, and Lexapro. (Tr. 427).
On February 3, 2006, Dr. Clay found that Plaintiff had an umbilical hernia and left
inguinal hernia, and also had symptoms consistent with plantar fasciitis. (Tr. 347). On February
27, 2006, surgeon Anthony Burton performed surgery, repairing Plaintiff’s inguinal hernia with
mesh and repaired the left inguinal hernia with mesh. (Tr. 309). No granuloma nor malignancies
were found. (Tr. 313).
On February 8, 2007, Plaintiff sustained a back injury at work and on February 9, 2007,
a Lumbar Spine MRI was performed at Northwest Arkansas Medical Imaging, Inc. (Tr. 203-204,
216-217, 282-283). The impression was:
1. Left parasagittal disc protrusion of the L4-5 level results in some left lateral recess
narrowing. This is contiguous with the left L5 nerve root. No nerve root enlargement
is demonstrated.
2. No disc extrusion, central canal stenosis or severe neural foraminal stenosis is
demonstrated.
3. Facet hypertrophy. No asymmetric fluid or synovial cyst is demonstrated.
4. Conus medullaris appears unremarkable. No intradural mass is demonstrated.
5. Marrow signal appears unremarkable.
6. Minimal annulus bulge of the L5-S1 level without mass effect on the thecal sac.
7. Minimal annulus bulge of the L3-4 level without significant mass effect on the thecal
sac.
(Tr. 204). Plaintiff sought treatment from a chiropractor (Tr. 214-215, 218), and on February 29,
2007, was seen by Dr. Cathleen E. Vandergriff, of the Arkansas Occupational Health Clinic,
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where he was assessed with a lumbar strain. (Tr. 257). Dr. Vandergriff recommended physical
therapy, and reported that Plaintiff had a very good prognosis and “may return to work today
with no lifting greater than 10 pounds as well as no pushing or pulling greater than 10 pounds.”
(Tr. 257).
Plaintiff underwent physical therapy between February 26, 2007 and April 6, 2007, with
little results. (Tr. 223-224, 227, 229, 233, 235-237, 279-280). On March 28, 2007, Plaintiff
presented himself to Washington Regional Medical Center, complaining of right knee pain. (Tr.
330). He was diagnosed with right knee strain. (Tr. 332). An x-ray of his knee revealed no
fracture. (Tr. 336). On April 3, 2007, Dr. Vandergriff sent a letter to Plaintiff’s employer,
assessing Plaintiff with lumbar strain, and reporting that Plaintiff had two rounds of physical
therapy without improvement and that his MRI did not really show very significant findings.
(Tr. 251). She believed that she had helped him as much as she could, and referred him to
neurosurgery for further evaluation and treatment. (Tr. 251). On April 4, 2007, Dr. Vandergriff
opined that Plaintiff could return to work with the same restrictions as previously given. (Tr.
247-248).
On April 13, 2007, Dr. Vandergriff reported that she received a call from the insurance
company wanting causation addressed regarding Plaintiff’s reported right knee pain and swelling.
(Tr. 245). Plaintiff had reported that when he went to the hospital with right knee pain, the ER
doctor said his right knee pain was caused by compensation in his gait due to his back pain. Dr.
Vandergriff observed that Plaintiff had swelling and warmth in his right knee, but, in her
experience with lumbar strains, “I have not had knee complications of swelling and warmth as
reported and seen in Mr. Baker today. Therefore, I would not relate his right knee pain and
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swelling specifically due to his lumbar strain although it could be a possibility.” (Tr. 245).
On April 25, 2007, Dr. Vandergriff wrote another letter to Plaintiff’s employer, assessing
Plaintiff with “right knee pain/swelling-resolving well.” (Tr. 244). She noted that since Plaintiff
wanted to make sure he was 100% better, she could send him to physical therapy for his knee.
She noted that Plaintiff had been released from her care regarding the back issue, and was seeing
a neurosurgeon (Dr. Rodney T. Routsong) for his back. (Tr. 244).
On May 7, 2007, a lumbar myelogram revealed an appearance of disc herniation of the
left side producing mild effacement of the L5 nerve root, and a CT of the lumbar spine revealed
a small disc herniation present on the left side at L4-5, impinging the left L5 nerve root. (Tr.
290-291).
On June 8, 2007, Dr. Routsong, from Northwest Arkansas Neurosurgery Clinic, P.A.,
sent a letter to Dr. Vandergriff, reporting that he told Plaintiff that surgery would not help his low
back complaint, but that they had discussed treatment alternatives for his nerve problem,
including surgical nerve decompression. (Tr. 271).

On July 2, 2007, Dr. Routsong wrote

another letter to Dr. Vandergriff, stating that he was concerned about Plaintiff’s muscle atrophy
and further weakness and numbness in the left lower extremity, asking Plaintiff again to think
about surgical nerve decompression. (Tr. 270). On July 17, 2007, upon physical examination
of Plaintiff by Dr. Routsong, Plaintiff’s gait was hesitant, and Dr. Routsong gave Plaintiff a
prescription for Flexeril, 5 mg. in the evening to help him rest. (Tr. 269).
On August 9, 2007, Dr. Routsong reported to Dr. Vandergriff that examination revealed
Plaintiff was demonstrating some slow improvement in regard to sacroiliac somatic dysfunction,
and that Plaintiff was beginning to think about surgery for his nerve problem. (Tr. 268). By
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August 23, 2007, Plaintiff reported to Dr. Routsong that his pain had “plateaued” off, and that
he still had daily and nightly pain at the left sacroiliac and tingling radiating down the lateral
aspect of the left leg, to the foot. (Tr. 267). The Plaintiff then advised that he would like to have
surgery for the nerve problem. (Tr. 267).
At a preoperative evaluation conducted by Dr. Clay, Plaintiff had elevated blood pressure
and blood sugar. However, Dr. Clay gave an impression that Plaintiff’s hypertension was
controlled. (Tr. 344). On October 5, 2007, Dr. Routsong performed a left L4 microlaminectomy
with microdissection and partial foraminotomy and removal of herniated nucleus pulposus, L4-5,
for nerve decompression. (Tr. 319).
On October 22, 2007 and November 19, 2007, Plaintiff reported to Dr. Routsong that he
was happy with his improvement. (Tr. 361-362). On January 3, 2008, Plaintiff no longer
described radicular pain to Dr. Routsong, and continued to demonstrate further improvement.
(Tr. 360). His main complaint was that of sacroiliac pain, and Dr. Routsong opined that he was
not physically capable of returning to work at that time. (Tr. 360). Plaintiff was taking
Ibuprofen at home for his arthritic complaints as well as his Monopril/HCT. (Tr. 360).
On February 4, 2008, Dr. Routsong reported that Plaintiff no longer had radicular pain
or numbness and that he continued to have pain at the left sacroiiliac joint and occasionally in
the hamstring region on the left. (Tr. 266). Dr. Routsong reported that neurologically, Plaintiff
continued to do well. (Tr. 266). He also reported that Plaintiff had some recent falls and was
still having sacroiliac pain and some hamstring tightness on the left, but also noted that Plaintiff
had not been taking pain medicine. Plaintiff had been taking Ibuprofen 600 mg. daily and it was
increased to “t.i.d.p.c.” Dr. Routsong also gave Plaintiff samples for Lyrica 75 mg. “b.i.d.” with
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appropriate medicine information. (Tr. 266).
On March 19, 2008, Dr. Routsong saw Plaintiff regarding ongoing difficulty with lowback pain. Dr. Routsong noted that Plaintiff was given samples of Lyrica and decided not to use
them. (Tr. 358). Dr. Routsong again suggested it, and again gave reasons for the medication.
(Tr. 358).
On April 8, 2008, Doin Dahlke, M.Ed., ATC/L, CFE, Certified Functional Evaluator, of
Functional Testing Centers, Inc., conducted a functional capacity evaluation, upon referral by Dr.
Routsong. (Tr. 393-394). Mr. Dahlke reported that Plaintiff demonstrated the ability to perform
lifting activities at the medium level with an occasional bi-manual lift of up to 60 lbs. when
lifting/carrying from floor to knuckle level, and up to 50 lbs when lifting to shoulder level. (Tr.
393). He further reported that Plaintiff demonstrated the ability to perform the following
activities on a constant basis: reach immediate (L); reach immediate (R); reach overhead (L);
reach overhead (R); reach with 5 lbs. weight (L); reach with 5 lbs. weight (R); handling (L);
handling (R); fingering (L); fingering (R); and sitting and standing. (Tr. 393). He found
Plaintiff demonstrated the ability to perform the following activities on a frequent basis: walk;
push cart; pull cart; balance; crouch; and kneel and climb stairs. Mr. Dahlke also found that
Plaintiff demonstrated the ability to carry up to 60 lbs and stoop on an occasional basis. Mr.
Dahlke found that Plaintiff demonstrated functional limitations with bi-manual material handling
at the 60 lbs. level with lifting/carrying up to this amount, on an occasional basis. (Tr. 394). He
reported that Plaintiff exhibited mildly decreased lumbar AROM and performed stooping at the
occasional classification. He further reported that Plaintiff performed all other activities at a
level consistent with that of any average worker. (Tr. 394). “Overall, Plaintiff demonstrated the
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ability to perform work in the Medium classification as defined by the US Dept. of Labor’s
guidelines over the course of a normal workday with the limitations above.” (Tr. 394).
Mr. Dahlke also observed Plaintiff going into a full squat to do lifting from the floor level
and that he lifted 50 lbs. bi-manually from knuckle to shoulder level. (Tr. 400). Mr. Dahlke
reported that Plaintiff entered the office at a normal pace with normal gait pattern and was able
to sit during the intake interview and during paperwork for 40 minutes before he stood for a few
minutes. (Tr. 402). He noted that Plaintiff ambulated with a normal gait at a normal pace, was
able to heel, toe, and side to side walk with no problems, and that his pace of movement was
consistent with an average worker. (Tr. 403). He found Plaintiff was able to carry 60 lbs. bimanually with a normal gait at a normal pace and pushed and pulled the cart in a normal fashion
at a normal pace. (Tr. 404). Plaintiff demonstrated good balance and was able to stork stand on
either leg, although slightly more unstable on his left compared to his right. (Tr. 404). Plaintiff
was reported as completing the stooping in a modified position with bent knees and less flexion
in his lumbar area, and was slower than normal and very guarded with this movement pattern.
His lumbar flexion was found to be consistent with that of an average worker. Plaintiff went up
and down the stairs in a normal fashion at a normal pace. (Tr. 405). Plaintiff went from sit to
stand and vice versa in a normal fashion at a normal pace, keeping his back straight each time.
(Tr. 407).
On June 11, 2008, Dr. Routsong saw Plaintiff regarding his previous problem of left L5
radiculopathy. Dr. Routsong stated that neurologically, Plaintiff continued to do well and
noticed very minimal numbness about the left lateral calf. He still had left heel pain and left
sacroiliac pain. (Tr. 265). Plaintiff’s gait was normal, and he and Dr. Routsong again discussed
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his back care and activity limitation instructions as well as planning and pacing of his activities.
(Tr. 265). Plaintiff was taking Ibuprofen 800 mg. t..i.d.p.c. without side effects and Monopril.
(Tr. 265).
On August 5, 2008, Plaintiff presented himself to Dr. Clay with an abnormal lab result
from an insurance physical. (Tr. 343, 422). Plaintiff had an “elevated _______, hemoglobin
A1c, LFT’s, and triglycerides.” (Tr. 343).
On August 28, 2008, Dr. Routsong reported that Plaintiff recently underwent several
sessions of physical therapy and stated that he thought he benefitted from them. (Tr. 355). On
August 29, 2008, Dr. Clay recommended an ultrasound of Plaintiff’s liver, which was
accomplished that same day. (Tr. 465). The impression was:
1. Probable diffuse fatty infiltration of the liver
2. Surgical absence of the gallbladder with no bile duct dilatation
3. Limited pancreatic tail evaluation due to bowel gas shadowing
(Tr. 465). On September 29, 2008, Plaintiff saw Dr. Clay for his hypertension. Dr. Clay’s
impression was hypertension and arthralgia. (Tr. 417).
On October 2, 2008, Dr. Routsong found Plaintiff’s neurological examination was
normal, that he had reached the point of maximum medical improvement, and released Plaintiff
from his medical care. (Tr. 354).
On November 19, 2008, non-examining physician Dr. Jim Takach completed a Physical
RFC Assessment. (Tr. 380-387). Dr. Takach found that Plaintiff could perform light work, and
that he could occasionally climb ramp/stairs/ladder/rope/scaffolds, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch,
and crawl. (Tr. 381-382). Dr. Takach also found that Plaintiff should avoid concentrated
exposure to hazards (machinery, heights, etc.). (Tr. 384).
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On June 5, 2009, Plaintiff presented himself to Dr. Clay, reporting that he had an elevated
blood pressure over the weekend. (Tr. 414). He also reported having a 45 minute to 1 hour
episode of expressive aphasia4 and bilateral hand numbness. This resolved completely and he
had been asymptomatic. Dr. Clay’s impression was possible TIA5 with expressive aphasia. (Tr.
414). Plaintiff was reported as having to leave before Dr. Clay was able to finalize the visit, and
Dr. Clay was called by the radiologist, who was concerned there may be a 3 mm. aneurysm of
the internal carotid artery at the level of the cavernous sinus on the right. (Tr. 414). Dr. Clay
reported that he would notify Plaintiff and tell him to go to the hospital as soon as he received
the message. (Tr. 414). On June 5, 2009, a MRI of Plaintiff’s brain without contrast and
intracranial MR Angiography was taken. (Tr. 419-420). The impression was:
1. Probable internal carotid artery aneurysm
2. The report was called to Dr. Clay’s office
(Tr. 420). On June 6, 2009, Dr. Larry Armstrong of the Northwest Arkansas Neuroscience
Institute gave the impression of “meningohypophyseal prominence,” infundibulum6 versus actual
aneurysm 2 x 3 mm. in size. (Tr. 411). He recommended that Plaintiff be sent to Dr. Edward
Cunningham, II, a cerebrovascular specialist, at Springfield Neurologic Institute at Cox Hospital
in Springfield, and until that time, Plaintiff was to have no strenuous activity and have normal

4

Aphasia - Any of a large group of language disorders involving defect or loss of the power of expression by
speech, writing, or signs, or of comprehending spoken or written language, due to injury or disease of the brain or
to psychogenic causes. Less severe forms are known as dysphasia. See also agrammatism, dysphasia, and
paraphasia. Id. at 116.

5

TIA - Transient ischemic attack. Id. at 1952.

6

Infundibulum - 1. A general anatomical term for a funnel-shaped structure; called also choana. 2. i.
Neurohypophyseos. 3. A downgrowth from the neuroectoderm of the embryonic diencephalon that gives rise to
the neurohypophysis. 4. Conus arteriosus. 5. The deep, often tubular or funnel-shaped part of the buccal cavity
seen in certain protozoa, especially peritrichous ciliates. Id. at 952.

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function and activities of daily living without anything strenuous. (Tr. 411).
On June 29, 2009, Dr. Cunningham saw Plaintiff. (Tr. 471). His impression was
possible small aneurysm, and he recommended that they obtain a second CD. (Tr. 475). Dr.
Cunningham further stated that the diagnosis of aneurysm “(whether it is there or not) has no
impact on disability.” (Tr. 475). In that same report, Plaintiff denied having depression. (Tr.
471). Another report of Dr. Cunningham’s dated July 8, 2009, indicates that he reviewed the
MRA(magnetic resonance angiogram) on the second CD and that there was a small lift ICA7
aneurysm along the cavernous segment that was projecting medially, though not into the
“hypaphyseal fossa.” (Tr. 475). Dr. Cunningham reported that this aneurysm did not pose a risk
of “SAH or death.” “At worst, the pt. would suffer a cavernous sinus syndrome which is not life
threatening but could cause visual loss if not addressed in a timely fashion. My nurse will
discuss this with the pt. by phone. He does not need follow-up imaging for this.” (Tr. 475).
Plaintiff was contacted with the results and was instructed to work out as he normally would and
to continue to live a healthy lifestyle. (Tr. 475).

On July 17, 2009, Plaintiff presented

himself to Dr. Clay with back pain. (Tr. 413).
After the ALJ’s decision dated March 19, 2010, Plaintiff was seen by Dr. Joel A. Price
on May 3, 2010. (Tr. 12-13). Dr. Price diagnosed Plaintiff as follows:
Axis I:

Mood D/O secondary to CVS 293.83(?)8
IED9

Axis II:

Def.

7

ICA - Abbreviation for internal carotid artery. Stedman’s Medical Dictionary 942 (28th ed. 2006).

8

The Court is unsure of the definition of CVS, but speculates it refers to cardiovascular system in this context.

9

The Court also believes this refers to intermittent explosive disorder.

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Axis III:
Axis IV:
Axis V:

CVS
Primary Support
GAF - 50

(Tr. 13). At that time, Plaintiff’s medications were listed as Prozac, Trileptal, and Ativan. (Tr.
14). Dr. Price also reported that Plaintiff was able to work and wanted to work, and that Plaintiff
suffered from depression. (Tr. 17). In a May 17, 2010 letter from Dr. Price to Plaintiff’s
attorney, Dr. Price advised that Plaintiff was diagnosed with Mood Disorder (293.83), and
advised the attorney of his current medications. (Tr. 11).
In a Report of Pain and other Symptoms dated October 29, 2008, Plaintiff reported that
he had daily chronic pain located in his lower back and left leg, which interfered with his sleep
and was worse when he stood or sat for long periods of time or upon bending or lifting. (Tr.
145). He reported that he could stand/walk 8 hours a day and could sit with no real limitations.
(Tr. 145). He further reported that bending, twisting, lifting, sitting long periods, and standing
long periods made his pain worse. (Tr. 146). He noted that heat and a TENS unit helped him
and that he was taking Ibuprofen - 800 mg. for pain. (Tr. 146). In a Function Report of the same
date, Plaintiff reported that on a daily basis, he got dressed, drove his wife to work; dropped his
son off at school; dropped his daughter off at day care; returned home; watched television; did
a few household chores (washed dishes, dusted); checked mail; paid bills; picked everyone up
from school, work and daycare; came home and helped assist with meal preparation; helped with
homework; watched television; and went to bed. (Tr. 147). He reported that he had no problems
with personal care, and that he worked on the household chores off and on all day. (Tr. 149).
He reported that he went outside daily, drove a car, shopped for family and household items, and
was able to handle money. (Tr. 150). He also reported that he could walk about 15 minutes
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before feeling the need to rest, and could pay attention for 10-15 minutes. (Tr. 152). He used
the TENS unit daily. (Tr. 153). He reported that he had begun to feel more depressed lately
since he was realizing that he would no longer be able to engage in his favorite past times
(working on old cars, gardening), and since he lost his job due to the injury. (Tr. 154).
In an undated Disability Report, Plaintiff noted that the condition that limited his ability
to work was “Back injury.” (Tr. 157). He reported that he was not able to twist or lift over 50
lbs. and could not continue lifting and bending over or stand or sit for very long. (Tr. 157).
At the hearing held on September 3, 2009, Plaintiff reported that he had three children,
ages 19, 7, and 3, and that in a normal day, he took his daughter to day care, swept, vacuumed,
did the dishes, picked up his daughter, and shared in making dinner with his wife. (Tr. 57-58).
He reported that the neurosurgeon in Springfield, Missouri said that his aneurysm was at a point
where “it’s at the edge of being operable, where they can come in and put a clamp or something
around it” and that it was too small at this point, so they were going to monitor it. (Tr. 60). He
also testified that his blood pressure was pretty reasonably controlled. (Tr. 61). He reported
taking Ibuprofen - 800 milligrams. He was told that he had an abnormal liver test and that it was
determined it was because he was taking too much ibuprofen. He stated that he was “not taking
anything else now.” He further stated that he had not talked to his doctor about any other
medications. “I just kind of live with the pain. Of course, the less I do, the more sitting around
all day is all I do.” (Tr. 64). Plaintiff testified that a doctor had given him medication for
depression, “but I have not been technically diagnosed with it.” (Tr. 65). He stated that he was
not still taking that medication because “it would make me sick in my stomach most of the time,
and I didn’t like how I felt on it.” (Tr. 65).
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III.

Applicable Law:
This Court’s role is to determine whether the Commissioner’s findings are supported by

substantial evidence on the record as a whole. Ramirez v. Barnhart, 292 F. 3d 576, 583 (8th Cir.
2002). Substantial evidence is less than a preponderance but it is enough that a reasonable mind
would find it adequate to support the Commissioner’s decision. The ALJ’s decision must be
affirmed if the record contains substantial evidence to support it. Edwards v. Barnhart, 314 F.
3d 964, 966 (8th Cir. 2003). As long as there is substantial evidence in the record that supports
the Commissioner’s decision, the Court may not reverse it simply because substantial evidence
exists in the record that would have supported a contrary outcome, or because the Court would
have decided the case differently. Haley v. Massanari, 258 F.3d 742, 747 (8th Cir. 2001). In
other words, if after reviewing the record, it is possible to draw two inconsistent positions from
the evidence and one of those positions represents the findings of the ALJ, the decision of the
ALJ must be affirmed. Young v. Apfel, 221 F. 3d 1065, 1068 (8th Cir. 2000).
It is well established that a claimant for Social Security disability benefits has the burden
of proving his disability by establishing a physical or mental disability that has lasted at least one
year and that prevents him from engaging in any substantial gainful activity. Pearsall v.
Massanari, 274 F. 3d 1211, 1217 (8th Cir. 2001); see also 42 U.S.C. §§423(d)(1)(A),
1382c(a)(3)(A). The Act defines “physical or mental impairment” as “an impairment that results
from anatomical, physiological, or psychological abnormalities which are demonstrable by
medically acceptable clinical and laboratory diagnostic techniques.” 42 U.S.C. §§423(d)(3),
1382(3)(D). A Plaintiff must show that his disability, not simply his impairment, has lasted for
at least twelve consecutive months.
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The Commissioner’s regulations require him to apply a five-step sequential evaluation
process to each claim for disability benefits: (1) whether the claimant had engaged in substantial
gainful activity since filing his claim; (2) whether the claimant had a severe physical and/or
mental impairment or combination of impairments; (3) whether the impairment(s) met or equaled
an impairment in the listings; (4) whether the impairment(s) prevented the claimant from doing
past relevant work; and (5) whether the claimant was able to perform other work in the national
economy given his age, education, and experience. See 20 C.F.R. §416.920. Only if the final
stage is reached does the fact finder consider the Plaintiff’s age, education, and work experience
in light of his residual functional capacity (RFC). See McCoy v. Schneider, 683 F.2d 1138,
1141-42 (8th Cir. 1982); 20 C.F.R. §416.920.
IV.

Discussion:
In his brief, Plaintiff raises the following issues on appeal: 1) The ALJ neglected to

discuss Plaintiff’s diagnosed depression in any detail; 2) The ALJ failed to properly analyze
Plaintiff’s subjective complaints of pain; 3) The ALJ erred in determining that Plaintiff retained
the RFC to perform less than a full range of light work; 4) The ALJ neglected to fully and fairly
develop the medical record by failing to adequately evaluate all of Plaintiff’s subjective claims
and medical diagnoses, specifically Plaintiff’s depression.10
A.

Non-Severity of Depression:
In her decision, the ALJ reported that although Plaintiff’s attorney referenced treatment

prior to the alleged onset date for depression, “there has been no ongoing treatment for any mood
disorder, or for that matter, any treatment at all since 2003.” (Tr. 24). She further stated that
10

The Court will discuss this when discussing the first issue on appeal.

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Plaintiff did not take any psychotropic medication and that his past treatment record did not
reflect any ongoing or current issues with regard to depression. The ALJ further stated:
Noteworthy is that in a report date October 1, 2009 that the claimant specifically denied
any psychiatric issues, although he may have done so elsewhere, he certainly did not in
the report of October 1, 2009.
(Tr. 24).
An impairment is severe within the meaning of the regulations if it significantly limits
an individual’s ability to perform basic work activities. 20 C.F.R. § § 1520(a)(4)ii),
416.920(a)(4)(ii). An impairment or combination of impairments is not severe when medical
and other evidence establish only a slight abnormality or a combination of slight abnormalities
that would have no more than a minimal effect on an individual’s ability to work. 20 C.F.R. §
§ 404.1521, 416.921. The Supreme Court has adopted a “de minimis standard” with regard to
the severity standard. Hudson v. Bowen, 870 F.2d 1392, 1395 (8th Cri. 1989).
A review of the records indicates that Plaintiff’s depression was noted or discussed in
2004, and nothing further was noted or discussed with respect to depression until October 29,
2008, when he reported in a social security report that he had “begun to feel more depressed
lately.” However, in his undated Disability Report - Adult, he claimed that the only condition
that prevented him from working was his back injury. Furthermore, Plaintiff admitted that he
had been prescribed medication for his depression, but did not take it because he did not like the
way it made him feel. (Tr. 65). He further admitted that he had not discussed any other
medications with his doctor. Finally, as noted by the ALJ, when Plaintiff was seen by Dr.
Cunningham on June 29, 2009, he denied having any problems with depression.
The Appeals Council noted that they looked at the medical records from Joel A. Price,
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M.D. dated May 3, 2010, wherein he diagnosed Plaintiff with mood disorder, and that Plaintiff
was taking Prozac at that time. (Tr. 2, 11-18). The Appeals Council noted, however, that the
ALJ decided his case through March 19, 2010, and that the new information did not affect the
decision about whether Plaintiff was disabled based on depression beginning on or before March
19, 2010. (Tr. 2). The Appeals Council further stated: “If you want us to consider whether you
were disabled after March 19, 2010, you need to apply again.” (Tr. 2).
The Court finds that there is substantial evidence to support the ALJ’s finding that
Plaintiff’s depression was non-severe during the relevant time period.
B.

Subjective Complaints and Credibility Analysis:
The ALJ was required to consider all the evidence relating to Plaintiff’s subjective

complaints including evidence presented by third parties that relates to: (1) Plaintiff’s daily
activities; (2) the duration, frequency, and intensity of his pain; (3) precipitating and aggravating
factors; (4) dosage, effectiveness, and side effects of his medication; and (5) functional
restrictions. See Polaski v. Heckler, 739 F.2d 1320, 1322 (8th Cir. 1984). While an ALJ may not
discount a claimant’s subjective complaints solely because the medical evidence fails to support
them, an ALJ may discount those complaints where inconsistencies appear in the record as a
whole. Id. As the Eighth Circuit has observed, “Our touchstone is that [a claimant’s] credibility
is primarily a matter for the ALJ to decide.” Edwards v. Barnhart, 314 F.3d 964, 966 (8th Cir.
2003).
In her decision, the ALJ stated that Plaintiff’s medically determinable impairment could
reasonably be expected to cause the alleged symptoms, but that Plaintiff’s statements concerning
the intensity, persistence and limiting effects of the symptoms were not credible to the extent
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they were inconsistent with the ALJ’s RFC assessment. The ALJ discussed Plaintiff’s daily
activities: he takes his child to daycare, sweeps, vacuums the home, does the dishes, does the
laundry, cleans the home, walks, drives the car, and shops in stores. Although Plaintiff
complained of constant pain, he only took Ibuprofen, 800 mg. for pain. Failure to seek regular
treatment or obtain pain medication has been found to be inconsistent with complaints of
disabling pain. Comstock v. Chater, 91 F.3d 1143, 1147(8th Cir. 1996), citing Benskin v. Bowen,
830 F.2d 878, 884 (8th Cir. 1987).
The Court finds there is substantial evidence to support the ALJ’s credibility findings.
C.

Residual Functional Capacity Assessment:
RFC is the most a person can do despite that person’s limitations.

20 C.F.R.

§404.1545(a)(1). It is assessed using all relevant evidence in the record. Id. This includes
medical records, observations of treating physicians and others, and the claimant’s own
description of his limitations. Guilliams, 393 F.3d at 801; Eichelberger v. Barnhart, 390 F.3d
584, 591 (8th Cir. 2004). Limitations resulting from symptoms such as pain are also factored
into the assessment. 20 C.F.R. § 404.1545(a)(3). The Eighth Circuit has held that a “claimant’s
residual functional capacity is a medical question.” Lauer v. Apfel, 245 F.3d 700, 704 (8th Cir.
2001). Therefore, an ALJ’s determination concerning a claimant’s RFC must be supported by
medical evidence that addresses the claimant’s ability to function in the workplace.” Lewis v.
Barnhart, 353 F.3d 642, 646 (8th Cir. 2003). “The ALJ is [also] required to set forth specifically
a claimant’s limitations and to determine how those limitations affect his RFC.” Id.
The ALJ found that Plaintiff had the RFC to perform less than the full range of light work
as defined in 20 CFR 404.1567(b) except that he “can do no climbing of ladders, ramps and
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scaffolds and only occasionally can climb ramps, stairs, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, and crawl.
Additionally, the claimant only frequently can push and pull with the lower left extremity.”
Plaintiff argues that the ALJ “completely disregarded Mr. Baker’s testimony regarding
his pain and discomfort, as well as the findings and opinions of the treating physicians.” (Doc.
13 at p. 17). As stated above, the ALJ did, in fact, discuss Plaintiff’s testimony regarding his
pain and discomfort. In fact, she stated that pain and discomfort were not necessarily disabling
and that the mere inability to work without some degree of pain or discomfort, of a minimal to
mild nature, did not necessarily constitute a disability for Social Security purposes. See Thomas
v. Sullivan, 928 F.2d 255, 259 (8th Cir. 1991). In addition, the ALJ noted that after Dr. Routsong
performed nerve decompression surgery, Dr. Routsong reported that Plaintiff no longer had
radicular pain or numbness. Although Plaintiff still reported pain in the left sacroiliac joint and
occasionally in the hamstring region, he refused to take the Lyrica that Dr. Routsong gave him,
or any other pain medication besides Ibuprofen.
Dr. Takach, who completed a Physical RFC Assessment on November 19, 2008, found
that Plaintiff could perform light work except that he could occasionally climb
ramp/stairs/ladder/rope/scaffolds, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch and crawl and should avoid
concentrated exposure to hazards (machinery, heights, etc.). Finally, Mr. Dahlke found Plaintiff
could do medium work. The ALJ gave only some weight to Mr. Dahlke’s opinion, finding that
it was optimistic in light of Plaintiff’s allegations of pain, her assessment of Plaintiff’s credibility
and other findings for which she crafted a more appropriate functional assessment relative to
limitations.
The Court believes there is substantial evidence to support the ALJ’s RFC assessment.
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D.

Hypothetical Question to VE:
The ALJ posed the following hypothetical question to the VE:
If you will please consider an ROC [sic] for an individual capable of full range of light
work with no climbing of ladders, ropes and scaffolding, only occasional ramps and
stairs, occasional balance, [INAUDIBLE],crawl, and only frequent pushing and pulling
of the lower left extremity, would that ROC [sic] be in conformity with past work either
as performed or is [sic] generally found in the national economy?
A: He could not, Judge.
Q: All right. Would you please consider a hypothetical claimant with the same
vocational profile and ROC [sic], are there any occupations that such an individual could
perform?
A: There are Judge. There would be transferrable skills to the light levels so they would
be light and unskilled jobs.
Q. There are no transferrable skills?
A: Not to the light level.
A: Okay.
A: There is work available as a cashier, which would be light and unskilled work.
...There is also work available in housekeeping. This again would be light and unskilled.
...There is also work available as a hand packager which again is light and unskilled
work. ...

(Tr. 69-70).
The Court believes the hypothetical questions the ALJ proposed to the VE fully set forth
the impairments which the ALJ accepted as true and which were supported by the record as a
whole. See Goff v. Barnhart, 421 F.3d 785, 794 (8th Cir. 2005). The Court further believes that
the VE’s responses to these hypothetical questions constitute substantial evidence supporting the
ALJ’s conclusion that Plaintiff’s impairments did not preclude him from performing light work
with certain limitations as a cashier, housekeeper, or hand packager. Pickney v. Chater, 96 F.3d
294, 296 (8th Cir. 1996)(testimony from VE based on properly phrased hypothetical question
constitutes substantial evidence).

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V.

Conclusion:
Accordingly, the Court hereby affirms the ALJ’s decision and dismisses Plaintiff’s case

with prejudice.
DATED this 6th day of March, 2012.

/s/

Erin L. Setser

HON. ERIN L. SETSER
UNITED STATES MAGISTRATE JUDGE

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