Cozine v. Social Security Administration Commissioner
Filing
10
MEMORANDUM OPINION. Signed by Honorable Erin L. Setser on June 4, 2012. (tg)
IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT
WESTERN DISTRICT OF ARKANSAS
FAYETTEVILLE DIVISION
DAVID EARL COZINE
v.
PLAINTIFF
CIVIL NO. 11-5104
MICHAEL J. ASTRUE, Commissioner
Social Security Administration
DEFENDANT
MEMORANDUM OPINION
Plaintiff, David Earl Cozine, 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 benefits (SSI) under the provisions of Titles II and XVI
of the Social Security Act (Act). 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 a Title II application for a period of disability and DIB and a
Title XVI application for SSI on February 8, 2008, alleging an inability to work beginning March
2, 2005, due to back problems, emphysema, high blood pressure, and problems with his feet. (Tr.
11, 209, 244-246). For DIB purposes, Plaintiff’s date last insured was June 30, 2010. (Tr. 139-
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141). The plaintiff appeared with counsel and testified at a hearing held on November 18, 2009.
(Tr. 11, 35-58). An impartial vocational expert (VE) also appeared at the hearing. (Tr. 11).
By written decision dated May 28, 2010, the ALJ found the Plaintiff met the insured status
requirements of the Act through June 30, 2010, had not engaged in substantial gainful activity
since March 2, 2005, and had an impairment or combination of impairments that were severe:
hypertension, osteoarthritis, a back disorder, a panic disorder, and emphysema. (Tr. 13).
However, after a review of the evidence, he found the Plaintiff did not have an impairment that
met or medically equaled the severity of one of the listed impairments in 20 CFR Part 404,
Subpart P, Appendix 1. After a consideration of the record, the ALJ found the Plaintiff had the
residual functional capacity (RFC) to:
lift and carry 20 pounds occasionally and 10 pounds frequently. The
claimant can sit for about 6 hours during an eight-hour workday and can
stand and walk for about 6 hours during an eight-hour work day. The
claimant is to avoid concentrated exposure to dusts, fumes, gases, odors,
and poor ventilation. The claimant can understand, remember, and carry
out simple, routine, and repetitive tasks. The claimant can respond
appropriately to supervisors and usual work situations. The claimant can
have occasional contact with co-workers, but have no contact with the
general public.
(Tr. 14-15). With respect to Plaintiff’s credibility, the ALJ found he was not fully credible.
However, he found that Plaintiff did retain some limitations as a result of his impairments. With
the aid of a VE, the ALJ found the Plaintiff was capable of performing his past relevant work as
a commercial cleaner. (Tr. 17).
Plaintiff then requested a review of the hearing decision by the Appeals Council, which
was denied on April 4, 2011. (Tr. 1-3). Thereafter, Plaintiff filed this action. (Doc. 1). This
case is before the undersigned pursuant to the consent of the parties. (Doc. 5). Both parties have
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filed appeal briefs, and the case is now ready for decision. (Docs. 8, 9).
II. Evidence Presented
Plaintiff was born in 1956, and obtained an education through the eighth grade. He did
not obtain a GED or receive any vocational training. (Tr. 38-40). Plaintiff’s work history
consisted of occupations such as floor maintenance, woodworker, and punch operator. (Tr. 160).
Medical records beginning in February 2004, prior to Plaintiff’s alleged onset date of
March 2, 2005, showed treatment for dizziness and hypertension. Plaintiff was prescribed
Micardis for high blood pressure daily. (Tr. 234-236, 237-239, 241-243). On February 17, 2005,
Plaintiff went to Mediserve Walk-In Clinic (Mediserve), claiming he had three episodes of nearsyncope. There were “no signs of activity or incontinence.” He was instructed to continue the
Micardis, and scheduled an RTC lab testing. His diagnosis was hypertension. (Tr. 237-239).
Subsequently, on February 26, 2005, Plaintiff went to Mediserve for a refill on his Micardis.
He had missed two days of work due to not taking his blood pressure medication. He alleged
he was no longer having weak spells, but he was still smoking cigarettes. An RTC lab was
again scheduled, along with an EKG. Plaintiff was informed if he failed to show this time, he
would not get another refill on his Micardis. (Tr. 234-236). On February 27, 2005, Plaintiff
underwent RTC testing and an EKG at Mediserve. (Tr. 221).
The evidence during the relevant time period reflects the following. On the alleged onset
date, March 2, 2005, Plaintiff returned to Mediserve, received a refill on Micardis, and was
instructed to take ASA (Aspirin) and Ibuprofen daily. (Tr. 219-220). Subsequently, on March
5, 2005, Mediserve took x-rays of the Plaintiff’s chest, due to allegations of difficulty breathing,
blurred vision, and dizziness when standing, which began after the March 2nd visit. The x-rays
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showed chest hyperinflation. Plaintiff was prescribed Micardis, and over- the- counter Aspirin,
and instructed to be on light duty at work. Plaintiff was diagnosed with Chronic Obstructive
Pulmonary Disease (COPD). (Tr. 216-217). Plaintiff returned to Mediserve on March 10, 2005,
and was diagnosed with hypertension and COPD. He was prescribed more Micardis, and
instructed to return to light duty for a week at work and then regular duty. (Tr. 210-212). A
Social Security disability report revealed that Plaintiff received Albuterol for breathing, Aspirin
for his heart, and high blood pressure medication, prescribed by Mediserve. He also underwent
an EKG and blood work at Mercy Rogers Medical Center in 2005. (Tr. 147).
On March 8, 2008, Plaintiff completed a Social Security Pain Questionnaire. (Tr. 150).
Plaintiff reported that he did not suffer from unusual fatigue, but required a nap for a few hours
every day. He alleged his pain was in his mid to lower back and was constant, dull, and aching,
unless his back went out, which made it unbearable. He reported the pain was always there and
interfered with his sleep. He stated he could stand/walk and sit for a couple of minutes before
the pain would occur. (Tr. 150). Plaintiff further reported that other than his medication, a joint,
alcohol, and “icy hot” helped the pain. He admitted he was not taking his medication at that time
because he did not like taking pills. However, he stated a side effect of marijuana was paranoia
and he had not needed to discontinue any medication because of side effects. He further reported
he had never been prescribed a special treatment that did not work. (Tr. 151).
On April 18, 2008, Plaintiff underwent a General Physical Examination conducted by Dr.
Randy Duane Conover. Plaintiff stated his main difficulty with working was back pain. Plaintiff
admitted to smoking a pack of cigarettes a day. (Tr. 248). Dr. Conover observed Plaintiff’s
range of motion was normal for all extremities and Plaintiff’s cervical spine, and Plaintiff’s
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lumbar spine had a range of motion of eighty degrees on a scale of zero to ninety. (Tr. 250).
Plaintiff’s grip in both hands was 95%. (Tr. 251). Lab results revealed a mild increased
subchondral sclerosis, and mild decreased joint space. Plaintiff was diagnosed with osteoarthritis,
hypertension, and emphysema with clubbing, and Plaintiff was found to be able to handle, finger,
see, hear, and speak. (Tr. 252). Dr. Conover found that Plaintiff had moderate limitation with
walking; mild limitations with standing, sitting, and lifting; and a severe limitation with carrying.
(Tr. 252).
On September 15, 2008, Plaintiff completed an appeals disability report. (Tr. 171-177).
He alleged he had increased dizziness, difficulty breathing, and fatigue due to emphysema,
beginning July, 2008. Plaintiff stated he had difficulty breathing even when sitting or lying
down. He further alleged severe back pain, which caused him to become bedridden for days.
Plaintiff also stated he had begun experiencing severe panic attacks due to his worsening
physical conditions and his fear of dying.
However, Plaintiff had not seen a
doctor/hospital/clinic for any of his conditions limiting his ability to work since his last disability
report. (Tr. 172). He stated he had no insurance and could not afford to go to a doctor. (Tr.
176). He had not worked since his last completed disability report. (Tr. 174).
On November 14, 2008, Plaintiff underwent pre- and post-bronchodilator studies
conducted by Dr. Jon A. Sexton at Medical Associates of Northwest Arkansas. (Tr. 259). The
pre-bronchodilator studies showed a normal Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) and Forced Expiratory
Volume in one second (FEV1), with a borderline reduction in FEV1/FVC. The peak flows
were normal, while the mid flows were mildly reduced. The post-bronchodilator studies showed
moderate improvement in mid flows. The impression was mild airflow obstruction in the
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smaller airways with moderate bronchodilator response suggesting reactive airways process.
(Tr. 262).
On December 2, 2008, Plaintiff went to Northwest Arkansas Free Health Center for back
pain, trouble breathing, heaviness in his chest, shortness of breath, and pain when breathing.
(Tr. 303). At that time, Plaintiff’s medication consisted of Albuterol. He still smoked half a
pack of cigarettes a day, and drank once or twice a week. (Tr. 303). Plaintiff was diagnosed with
chronic high blood pressure and “history of emphysema and MI1.” (Tr. 303)
Plaintiff went to Washington Regional Medical Center on December 8, 2008, for chest
x-rays, lumbosacral spine x-rays, and lab work. (Tr. 304-208). The reason for the exam was
hypertension, degenerative disc disease, and shortness of breath. The findings revealed the
cardiomediastinal silhouette was normal in contour and size, the lungs were clear, and no pleural
fluid collection or pneumothorax was seen. The impression was that there was no acute disease.
(Tr. 304-307). The lumbosacral spine x-rays revealed the vertebral bodies of the lumbar spine
maintained normal height and alignment, and the disc spaces appeared normal. The impression
was no compression fractures and minimal endplate remodeling at L2-L3 with preserved disc
height. (Tr. 308).
On December 9, 2008, Plaintiff returned to Northwest Arkansas Free Health Center, due
to back pain and trouble breathing. (Tr. 302). He was still smoking three-fourths of a pack of
cigarettes a day and drinking socially. At that time, he reported taking Aspirin and Diclofenac
for pain. (Tr. 193). He alleged the Diclofenac was causing burning in his stomach and helping
his knee, but not his back. His lungs appeared clear. He was given back exercises to help with
1
The Court believes “MI” refers to Myocardial Infarction.
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the arthritis and degenerative disc disease. The physician’s notes stated he wanted to continue
taking the Diclofenac despite the side effects, and he was instructed to return in a couple of
months. (Tr. 302).
A Physical RFC Assessment was completed by Dr. Jim Takach, a non-examining medical
consultant, on December 10, 2008. (Tr. 268). The assessment revealed that Plaintiff could
occasionally lift and/or carry twenty pounds, frequently lift and/or carry ten pounds; stand and/or
walk (with normal breaks) for a total of about six hours in an eight-hour work day; sit (with
normal breaks) for a total of about six hours in an eight-hour work day; and push and/or pull
(including operation of hand and/or foot controls) for an unlimited amount of time, other than
that which is shown for his ability to lift and carry. Dr. Takach indicated that Plaintiff showed
the ability to function with light work limits, and should avoid concentrated exposure to fumes,
odors, dusts, gases, and poor ventilation. (Tr. 269, 272).
On January 14, 2009, Plaintiff underwent a mental status and evaluation of adaptive
functioning examination by Dr. Gene Chambers, of Mindworks. (Tr. 278-282). Plaintiff
reported he got nervous around a lot of people, which would generally trigger a panic attack. He
described a number of people as four. He also stated if he was around a stranger and was not
anticipating the encounter, it would trigger a panic attack. He reported he had been having panic
attacks for at least ten years. Plaintiff could not recall where his first panic attack occurred, but
recalled having the experience that being there was strange and feeling the overwhelming need
to get out. Since that point in time, he had numerous panic attacks and adapted by avoiding
situations that would trigger them. He stated he would have them at home, but they were much
more infrequent, and they usually occurred when he was alone. Due to his physical symptoms,
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he feared he would die without anyone there to help him. These attacks had occurred in the past
when he was grocery shopping or at church. The majority of them occurred when out and away
from home. Plaintiff further stated he was depressed a lot, and would get very nervous or
become despondent over insignificant things. (Tr. 278).
Plaintiff did not have a history of psychiatric treatment. At that time, Plaintiff reported
he was not taking any medication due to cost. Plaintiff revealed he lived with his daughter and
had been arrested for possession, public intoxication, and DUI’s. He offered his employment
history of framing houses, building boats, factory work, and working at Wal-Mart. He stated he
last worked at Wal-Mart in 2004, but quit when he started having dizzy spells and, ultimately,
a heart attack. Plaintiff admitted to smoking three-fourths of a pack of cigarettes a day, having
started smoking at age fifteen. He estimated averaging seven to eight beers a month, but
revealed he used to drink heavily on a daily basis for about three years. He stopped drinking
regularly when he had his heart attack in 2004. Plaintiff also reported he started smoking
marijuana at the age of fifteen, and smoked heavily until he was in his twenties. He then quit for
fifteen years. However, he acknowledged he still smoked when he had problems sleeping,
which, at the time, was about five to ten times per month.
Dr. Chambers noted Plaintiff’s thought processes were logical and relevant (Tr. 280). Dr.
Chambers diagnosed Plaintiff with the following:
Axis I: dysthymia, panic disorder with agoraphobia, alcohol dependence
(complete sustained remission), and cannabis abuse;
Axis II: antisocial personality traits;
Axis III: deferred;
Axis IV: occupational problems and problems related to the social environment;
Axis V: GAF: 50-60.
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(Tr. 280).
Regarding Plaintiff’s adaptive functioning, Dr. Chambers noted that Plaintiff reported no
difficulties. Although he relied on someone for transportation, he offered that he could find
places unfamiliar to him on his own. Plaintiff managed money himself when he had it. He
socialized with immediate family only, and was limited with household chores due to his back
pain. Dr. Chambers found that Plaintiff’s ability to communicate and interact in a socially
adequate manner was within normal limits, and his capacity to communicate in an intelligent and
effective way was within reasonable limits. Dr. Chambers noted Plaintiff was cooperative,
provided a motivated effort, and appeared capable of managing funds without assistance. (Tr.
282). Dr. Chambers also found that Plaintiff’s capacity to cope with typical demands of basic
work and to attend and sustain concentration on basic tasks had limitations, due to his panic
disorder. (Tr. 281). Plaintiff reported to Dr. Chambers that his ability to work if he had no
physical difficulties depended on whether he could tolerate being around people. Plaintiff
indicated he had gotten increasingly uncomfortable and nervous around numbers of people. (Tr.
282).
On January 20, 2009, Dr. Jerry Henderson, a non-examining medical consultant,
completed a Psychiatric Review Technique form indicating Plaintiff had mild restrictions of his
activities of daily living; moderate difficulties in maintaining social functioning; moderate
difficulties in maintaining concentration, persistence, or pace; and no episodes of
decompensation. (Tr. 293). Dr. Henderson’s notes indicated the following:
51-year-old claimant primarily alleging physical impairments but noting
panic attacks. There appear to be some significant discrepancies in the
claimant’s account of a history of anxiety and panic problems. In a 1/09
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mental status exam, the claimant notes a ten year history of significant
anxiety with panic attacks and agoraphobia. The MSCE resulted in a
diagnosis of panic disorder with agoraphobia, dysthymia and cannabis
abuse. In contrast to the claimant’s report of symptoms in the MSCE
EEE,... his ADL form... indicates social activity, with attending church
weekly and there is no mention of significant anxiety limiting his
functioning. There was no mention or observation of anxiety in a 4/08
GPCE. The claimant has no history of psychiatric treatment and takes no
psychotropic medications. Overall findings would appear consistent with
unskilled capacity in an environment in which interpersonal contact was
only incidental.
(Tr. 295).
On the same date, Dr. Henderson completed a Mental RFC Assessment, stating Plaintiff
had moderate limitations in the following areas: the ability to understand and remember detailed
instructions; the ability to carry out detailed instructions; the ability to maintain attention and
concentration for extended periods; the ability to sustain an ordinary routine without special
supervision; the ability to work in coordination with or proximity to others without being
distracted by them; the ability to complete a normal work-day and work week without
interruptions from psychologically based symptoms and to perform at a consistent pace without
an unreasonable number and length of rest periods; the ability to accept instructions and respond
appropriately to criticism from supervisors; and the ability to respond appropriately to changes
in the work place.
Dr. Henderson noted the Plaintiff “is able to perform work where
interpersonal contact is incidental to work performed, e.g. assembly work; complexity of tasks
is learned and performed by rote, few variables, little judgment; supervision required is simple,
direct and concrete.” (Tr. 299).
On February 2, 2009, Plaintiff was admitted into Washington Regional Medical Center
for chest pain and shortness of breath. (Tr. 311-323). Plaintiff stated he was doing laundry and
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became short of breath. He stated he also felt pain in his left arm after his blood pressure was
taken. (Tr. 314). At that time, his medications included Amitriptyline Hydrochloride, a muscle
relaxer, and Aspirin. His pain was most severe in the sub-sternal area. The notes from the
treating physician stated as follows:
52-year-old who had a five second episode of chest pain and shortness of
breath while doing laundry at his daughter’s house. He tells me that he
was seen at Mediserve one time and they prescribed blood pressure
medicine for him (he is not taking it now because he cannot afford it) and
they told them that he had a heart attack some time in the past. He says
that he never knew that he had a heart attack. However, his EKG today
is completely normal, and 5 of 7 BP here... are normal, the other two are
only mildly elevated. He says that he had vomiting and diarrhea
yesterday and the day before. I see no evidence that this is cardiac and
with it only lasting 5 seconds, it does not sound cardiac. This is more
likely esophagitis associated with vomiting that he had.
(Tr. 315).
Plaintiff reported smoking one pack of tobacco per day, and had been for forty years.
Plaintiff also reported consuming alcohol socially, and had a history of cannabis abuse. (Tr.
315). An x-ray was taken of Plaintiff’s chest which found the heart was normal size, no
mediastinal widening or pneumothorax was present, and there was no evidence of infiltrate,
consolidation, or pleural effusion. (Tr. 321). There was no free air under the diaphragm. The
impression was that there was no acute airspace disease. (Tr. 321). Plaintiff was discharged on
atypical chest pain, unknown cause. There was no recorded prescription. (Tr. 319).
On February 23, 2009, Plaintiff completed another appeals disability report, wherein he
noted his emphysema was not showing up and possibly could have been gone, and that he had
a hard time being around people and had to talk himself into leaving his house. (Tr. 187). He
reported the date these changes occurred was November, 2008. Plaintiff stated he had anxiety
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around people, and was depressed because of his living conditions. He dreaded getting up in
the morning, and had a hard time going to sleep because he was afraid he would die in his sleep.
(Tr. 187). He was constantly anxious about getting things done immediately, but he had not
seen a doctor/hospital/clinic for the emotional or mental problems limiting his ability to work.
(Tr. 187).
Plaintiff’s medications included Amitriptyline to help him sleep, Cyclobenzaprine and
Diclofenac for pain, and Proventil for his emphysema prescribed by Dr. Patricia Scott, at the Free
Health Center. (Tr. 189). Plaintiff reported the Amitriptyline made him feel like he was going
to pass out, the Cyclobenzaprine made him feel hung-over, the Diclofenac caused a burning
sensation in his stomach, and the Proventil had no side effects. (Tr. 189). Plaintiff further
reported he had to bathe using one hand because of his hurt left shoulder, and that it took a long
time to get dressed, along with anything else that required him to raise his left arm. (Tr. 190).
The only daily activity he had was a little cleaning around the house. (Tr. 190). Plaintiff
remarked he was losing his memory and was always nervous. He reported he was not taking
most of his medications because of the side effects. (Tr. 191).
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
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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)(c). A Plaintiff must show that his disability, not simply his impairment, has lasted for
at least twelve consecutive months.
The Commissioner’s regulations require him to apply a five-step sequential evaluation
process to each claim for disability benefits: (1) whether the claimant has engaged in substantial
gainful activity since filing his claim; (2) whether the claimant has a severe physical and/or
mental impairment or combination of impairments; (3) whether the impairment(s) meet or equal
an impairment in the listings; (4) whether the impairment(s) prevent the claimant from doing past
relevant work; and, (5) whether the claimant is able to perform other work in the national
economy given his age, education, and experience. See 20 C.F.R. § § 404.1520, 416.920. Only
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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. See McCoy v. Schweiker, 683 F.2d 1138,
1141-42 (8th Cir. 1982); 20 C.F.R. § § 404.1520, 416.920.
IV. Discussion:
Plaintiff contends that the ALJ erred in concluding that the Plaintiff was not disabled.
Defendant argues substantial evidence supports the ALJ’s determination.
A. Subjective Complaints and Credibility Analysis:
We first address the ALJ’s assessment of Plaintiff’s subjective complaints. 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
United States Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit 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).
After reviewing the administrative record, it is clear that the ALJ properly evaluated
Plaintiff’s subjective complaints. Although Plaintiff contends that his impairments were
disabling, the evidence of record does not support this conclusion.
With regard to Plaintiff’s alleged mental impairments, the record establishes Plaintiff
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has not sought any medical treatment for his alleged disabling mental impairments. See Gowell
v. Apfel, 242 F.3d 793, 796 (8th Cir. 2001)(holding that lack of evidence of ongoing counseling
or psychiatric treatment for depression weighs against plaintiff’s claim of disability); Melton v.
Apfel, 181 F.3d 939, 941 (8th Cir. 1999)(holding that plaintiff’s failure to seek consistent
medical treatment weighed against his subjective complaints). At the hearing held November
18, 2009, the ALJ inquired if the Plaintiff had sought any type of mental health treatment in the
past five years, or if the Plaintiff was taking any type of anti-depressant or other medication to
help his alleged mental impairments. The Plaintiff responded to both in the negative. (Tr. 51).
Nor did Plaintiff list any mental impairments when reporting the conditions he believed limited
his ability to work. (Tr. 143, 209). Gregg v. Barnhart, 354 F.3d 710, 713 (8th Cir. 2003)( “An
ALJ is not obliged ‘to investigate a claim not presented at the time of the application for
benefits...’”)(quoting Pena v. Chater, 76 F.3d 906, 909 (8th Cir. 1996)).
It is also noteworthy that Plaintiff indicated he was smoking marijuana in March, 2008
as a form of self-medicating, and noted a side effect of such use was paranoia. (Tr. 150-151).
Plaintiff also stated in a Function Report dated March 8, 2008, that he liked to spend time with
others, talking and visiting, as much as he could. (Tr. 156). He reported he went to church on
a regular basis, and did not have any problems getting along with family, friends, neighbors, or
others. At that time, he stated he had not noticed any unusual behavior or fears. (Tr. 156-158).
Thereafter, Plaintiff alleged severe panic attacks due to his fear of dying beginning in July 2008.
(Tr. 172). However, during a mental diagnostic evaluation in January of 2009, Plaintiff reported
he had been having these attacks for ten years, and that he had been avoiding situations which
would trigger them since that point in time. Plaintiff reported he got nervous around a lot of
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people. He stated these events had happened in the past while grocery shopping or at church,
the majority of the attacks taking place away from home. (Tr. 278). Therefore, Plaintiff’s
reports regarding when these panic attacks and fears began were inconsistent, and support the
ALJ’s finding that the Plaintiff’s subjective complaints were not fully credible. See Gray v.
Apfel, 192 F.3d 799, 804 (8th Cir. 1999)(noting inconsistent statements cast doubt upon
credibility.). After reviewing the record as a whole, the Court finds substantial evidence to
support the ALJ’s determination that Plaintiff’s mental impairments were not disabling.
Furthermore, while Plaintiff alleged an inability to seek treatment for his mental
impairments due to lack of finances, the record did not contain any indication Plaintiff had
attempted to seek treatment from a free clinic for mental impairments or had been denied
treatment due to his lack of finances. Murphy v. Sullivan, 953 F.3d 383, 386-87 (8th Cir.
1992)(holding that lack of evidence that plaintiff sought low-cost medical treatment from her
doctor, clinics, or hospitals does not support Plaintiff’s contention of financial hardship). The
record showed that Plaintiff had sought treatment at a Free Health Clinic in 2008 for his
emphysema and back pain, and had received medications for them. However, he had never
alleged any mental impairments. Furthermore, the record indicated Plaintiff had the funds to
drink socially, smoke marijuana, and smoke cigarettes regularly.
With regard to Plaintiff’s alleged back problems, problems with his feet, and high blood
pressure, the record showed Plaintiff failed to consistently take his prescribed medications.
Plaintiff reported in 2008 that he was not taking any medications for his pain because he did not
like pills. However, he admitted he had never been prescribed a medication that did not work.
Brown v. Barnhart, 390 F.3d 535, 540-541 (8th Cir. 2004)(citations omitted)(“Failure to follow
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a prescribed course of remedial treatment without good reason is grounds for denying an
application for benefits.”); Guilliams v. Barnhart, 393 F.3d 798, 802 (8th Cir. 2005) (“A failure
to follow a recommended course of treatment also weighs against a claimant’s credibility.”); 20
C.F.R. § 416.930(b).
Subsequently, in 2009, Plaintiff again stated he was not taking his prescribed Diclofenac
for his pain, but was taking Aspirin instead. See Benskin v. Bowen, 830 F.2d 878, 884 (8th Cir.
1987)(disabling pain not indicated when claimant merely took hot showers and used Advil and
Aspirin to relieve pain); Haynes v. Shalala, 26 F.3d 812, 814 (8th Cir. 1994)(lack of strong pain
medication was inconsistent with disabling pain.); Rankin v. Apfel, 195 F.3d 427, 430 (8th Cir.
1999)(infrequent use of prescription drugs supports discrediting complaints.) Plaintiff also stated
in February of that same year that he did not take most of his medications because of the side
effects. However, the record showed Plaintiff only reported a side effect from Diclofenac to his
treating physician once, but stated he wanted to continue taking it. (Tr. 302). See Stormo v.
Barnhart, 377 F.3d 801, 806 (8th Cir. 2004)(noting that Plaintiff has the burden of proving the
side effects of medication are significant enough to prevent him from working); Van Vickle v.
Astrue, 539 F.3d. 825, 830 (8th Cir. 2008)(side effects are not significant enough to prevent
working when Plaintiff voluntarily continues taking medication).
With regards to Plaintiff’s high blood pressure, he reported to his treating physician at
Washington Regional Medical Center in 2009 that he was not taking the blood pressure medicine
prescribed to him by Mediserve because he could not afford it. However, it is again noted that
Plaintiff had the funds to support his smoking habit and to drink socially. Furthermore, Plaintiff
testified at the hearing before the ALJ later that year that his blood pressure seemed to be under
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control, and was not a problem at that point. (Tr. 48). See Brown, 390 F.3d at 540. (“If an
impairment can be controlled by treatment or medication, it cannot be considered disabling.”)
With regards to Plaintiff’s allegations of emphysema, the record contained numerous
accounts where the Plaintiff admitted to smoking up to a pack of cigarettes a day. See Mouser
v. Astrue, 545 F.3d 634, 638 (8th Cir. 2008)(noting that “continued smoking amounts to a failure
to follow a prescribed course of remedial treatment”when smoking has a direct impact on the
alleged disability). Plaintiff testified at the administrative hearing that his emphysema was
getting better because he had cut back to smoking half a pack of cigarettes a day. He admitted
he was not using anything to help him quit smoking. However, in February of 2009, Plaintiff
reported to his treating physician at Washington Regional Medical Center that he was told his
emphysema was gone. Subsequently, it was noted in a disability report that his emphysema was
not showing up.
Plaintiff’s subjective complaints are also inconsistent with evidence regarding his daily
activities. In a Function Report dated March 8, 2008, Plaintiff reported he could take care of his
personal needs and grooming; prepare simple meals; clean the house; do the dishes; shop for
groceries; walk and drive locally; pay bills, handle a savings account, and use a
checkbook/money orders; and watch television daily. (Tr. 152-159). Plaintiff further reported
he would finish what he started, and could follow written and spoken instructions. While he
mentioned he did not like authority, he reported he had never been fired due to problems getting
along with others. Plaintiff reported he liked to spend time with others and did not have any
problems getting along with family, friends, neighbors or others. He also reported he went to
church on a regular basis. This level of activity belies Plaintiff’s complaints and the Eighth
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Circuit has consistently held that the ability to perform such activities contradicts a Plaintiff’s
subjective allegations of disabling pain. See Hutton v. Apfel, 175 F.3d 651, 654-655 (8th Cir.
1999)(holding ALJ’s rejection of claimant’s application was supported by substantial evidence
where daily activities- making breakfast, washing dishes and clothes, visiting friends, watching
television and driving- were inconsistent with a claim of total disability).
Therefore, although it is clear that Plaintiff suffers with some degree of limitation, he has
not established that he is unable to engage in any gainful activity. See Craig v. Apfel, 212 F.3d
433, 436 (8th Cir. 2000)(holding that mere fact that working may cause pain or discomfort does
not mandate a finding of disability.) Accordingly, the Court concludes that substantial evidence
supports the ALJ’s conclusion that Plaintiff’s subjective complaints were not totally credible.
B. RFC Assessment:
We next turn to the ALJ’s assessment of Plaintiff’s RFC. 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 descriptions of his limitations. Guilliams v. Barnhart, 393
F.3d 798, 801 (8th Cir. 2005); 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 United States Court of Appeals for 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). “[T]he ALJ is [also] required
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to set forth specifically a claimant’s limitations and to determine how those limitations affect his
RFC.” Id.
In the present case, the ALJ considered the medical assessments of Plaintiff’s treating
physicians, examining and non-examining agency medical consultants, Plaintiff’s subjective
complaints, and his medical records when he determined that Plaintiff could perform light work
with limitations. The Court notes that the ALJ found that Plaintiff had the RFC to perform light
work, except that he must avoid concentrated exposure to dusts, fumes, gases, odors, and poor
ventilation. Furthermore, the Plaintiff could have occasional contact with co-workers, but could
have no contact with the general public.
In deciding not to give controlling weight to Dr. Conover’s opinion that Plaintiff had a
severe carry limitation, the ALJ noted this finding was not consistent with the record as a whole.
Prosch v. Apfel, 201 F.3d 1010, 1012 (8th Cir. 2000)(the ALJ may reject the conclusions of any
medical expert, whether hired by the claimant or the government, if they are inconsistent with
the record as a whole.) The ALJ noted objective medical tests, including x-rays, did not show
the level of impairment alleged by the Plaintiff. Specifically, the ALJ noted x-rays of the lumbar
spine region only revealed the Plaintiff had “minimal endplate remodeling at L2-3 with preserved
disc height” (Exhibit B13F). (Tr. 16). Furthermore, Dr. Conover’s exam notes contradicted his
claim that the Plaintiff had a severe carry limitation. Dr. Conover found that Plaintiff’s lumbar
spine contained the only abnormal range of motion, which was eighty degrees on a scale of zero
to ninety. All extremities and Plaintiff’s cervical spine were within the normal range of motion.
Furthermore, Dr. Conover noted Plaintiff’s left and right grip were at ninety-five percent. See
Holmstrom v. Massanari, 279 F.3d 715, 721 (8th Cir. 2001) (noting ALJ properly discounted the
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opinion of an RFC evaluation when the opinion was inconsistent with the physician’s own notes
in the medical record).
The ALJ also considered the opinion of Dr. Chambers, who conducted a mental
diagnostic evaluation, and concluded that Plaintiff had limitations based on his panic disorder
in his capacity to complete tasks which would involve him being around numbers of people. The
ALJ noted that although the evidence of the record in regard to Plaintiff’s panic disorder was
somewhat contradictory, the Plaintiff nonetheless had some limitations, which was reflected in
the Plaintiff’s RFC. Furthermore, Dr. Chambers reported that Plaintiff maintained a GAF score
of 50-60, which has been associated with a moderate impairment in occupational functioning.
Martise v. Astrue, 641 F.3d 909, 919 (8th Cir. 2011)(according to the Diagnostic and Statistical
Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV), a GAF of 51 to 60 indicates moderate
symptoms)(citations omitted).
The ALJ also addressed the opinion of Dr. Jon A. Sexton, who conducted the pulmonary
function report for a disability determination and determined Plaintiff would suffer limitations
as a result of his emphysema. Although the record subsequently indicated the emphysema could
be gone, the limitations were reflected in the Plaintiff’s RFC.
The ALJ further addressed
Plaintiff’s limitations with regard to his high blood pressure, although the record indicated he
only seemed to have problems with this when he has failed to take his medication.
Based on the foregoing, the Court finds substantial evidence of record to support the
ALJ’s RFC determination.
C. Hypothetical Question to the Vocational Expert:
After thoroughly reviewing the hearing transcript along with the entire evidence of
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record, the undersigned finds that the hypothetical the ALJ posed to the vocational expert fully
set forth the impairments which the ALJ accepted as true and which were supported by the
record as a whole. Goff v. Barnhart, 421 F.3d 785, 794 (8th Cir. 2005). Accordingly, the Court
finds that the VE’s testimony constitutes substantial evidence supporting the ALJ’s conclusion
that Plaintiff’s impairments do not preclude him from performing work as a commercial cleaner.
Pickney v. Chater, 96 F.3d 294, 296 (8th Cir. 1996)(testimony from vocational expert based on
properly phrased hypothetical question constitutes substantial evidence.)
V. Conclusion:
Accordingly, having carefully reviewed the record, the undersigned finds substantial
evidence supporting the ALJ’s decision denying the Plaintiff benefits, and thus the decision
should be affirmed. The undersigned further finds that the Plaintiff’s Complaint should be
dismissed with prejudice.
DATED this 4th day of June, 2012.
/s/ Erin L. Setser
HON. ERIN L. SETSER
UNITED STATES MAGISTRATE JUDGE
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