Sebbern v. Commissoner of Social Security

Filing 15

ORDER Regarding Plaintiff's Social Security Complaint signed by Magistrate Judge Gary S. Austin on 1/28/2010. Court DENIES Plaintiff's appeal from the administrative decision of the Commissioner of Social Security. CASE CLOSED. (Esteves, C)

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 EASTERN DISTRICT OF CALIFORNIA 10 WILBERT C. SEBBERN, JR., 11 12 Plaintiff, 13 v. 14 15 16 Defendant. 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28
The parties consented to the jurisdiction of the United States Magistrate Judge. On December 12, 2008, th e action was reassigned to the Honorable Gary S. Austin for all purposes.
1

UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT
) 1:08cv01768 GSA ) ) ) ORDER REGARDING PLAINTIFF'S ) SOCIAL SECURITY COMPLAINT ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) )

MICHAEL J. ASTRUE, Commissioner of Social Security,

BACKGROUND Plaintiff Wilbert C. Sebbern, Jr. ("Plaintiff") seeks judicial review of a final decision of the Commissioner of Social Security ("Commissioner" or "Defendant") denying his application for disability insurance benefits pursuant to Title II of the Social Security Act. The matter is currently before the Court on the parties' briefs, which were submitted, without oral argument, to the Honorable Gary S. Austin, United States Magistrate Judge.1

1

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27
2

FACTS AND PRIOR PROCEEDINGS2 Plaintiff filed an application on or about November 17, 2003, alleging disability since January 24, 2002, due to degenerative disc disease, hearing loss in the right ear and an adjustment disorder. AR 20, 22, 123-125. His application was denied initially and on reconsideration, and Plaintiff requested a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge ("ALJ"). AR 90-94. ALJ Michael Friedman held a hearing on May 18, 2005, in New York, and issued an order denying benefits on June 16, 2005. AR 37-53, 491-498. On August 2, 2006, the Appeals Council vacated the decision and remanded for further proceedings. AR 506-508. On March 22, 2007, ALJ James Berry held a video hearing in Fresno; Plaintiff appeared in Bakersfield. On July 3, 2007, ALJ Berry issued an order denying benefits. AR 20-28. On September 23, 2008, the Appeals Council denied review. AR 8-10, 16. 2007 Hearing Testimony ALJ Berry held a video hearing on March 22, 2007, in Fresno, California. Plaintiff appeared and testified from Bakersfield, California. He was represented by Robert Lowenstein. Vocational Expert ("VE") Jose Chaparro also testified. AR 54-88. Plaintiff is married and has two children, aged twenty months and sixteen years. AR 6869. He completed twelfth grade and attended vocational training to become a cook in the early 90's. AR 69. Plaintiff stopped working on January 24, 2002, because he was injured on the job. He and a coworker were delivering 400 pounds of material via a hand truck, down a set of basement stairs. A portion of a step "chipped away," the material on the hand truck toppled, and Plaintiff was crushed. AR 58. He suffered injuries to his head, neck, back, right shoulder, right elbow, both hands and right knee. AR 58. The workers' compensation case related to his injuries was resolved in 2005. AR 69. With regard to the injury to his head, Plaintiff suffers "consistent" headaches, every day. AR 58. He experiences bad headaches three to four times per week, "like a migraine." AR 66.

28

References to the Administrative Record will be designated as "AR," followed by the appropriate page

num b er.

2

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28

Sometimes the headaches last a day or two. AR 66. When he gets such a headache, he turns out the lights to darken the room as much as possible and closes his eyes. He uses medication and hot towels to obtain relief. AR 67. He suffered hearing loss in his right ear due to a severed ear drum. AR 58-59. Plaintiff underwent surgery on his right shoulder and has a limited range of motion as a result. AR 59. The surgery was performed in December of 2003 or 2004. AR 62. When he lifts and extends the shoulder, he gets "a pull across the whole back, and a sensation of pain up and down the back, and across the shoulders." AR 59. He cannot raise his arm in the air, nor can he rotate his shoulder as he would have been able to do prior to the injury. AR 65. With regard to the right elbow and hand injuries, he "chipped a bone" in his right elbow and experiences pain that travels down his arm. Both hands are affected and there is a visible knot on his left hand. AR 59. Plaintiff suffers from constant, every day back pain, and participates in a pain management program. The pain radiates down the back of his legs and into the heels of his feet. Both feet swell, and on occasion he cannot wear shoes. The pain intensifies with movement and he cannot get comfortable when lying down. He testified that it is "a miserable feeling." AR 60. Plaintiff indicated doctors wanted to perform a back surgery involving placing "a rod in the spine." He elected not to proceed with the surgery because it offered only a thirty percent chance of relief. AR 62. Right knee surgery was performed on March 24, 2002, however, as he was returning home from the surgery itself, he was involved in a motor vehicle accident. He believes the knee never fully or properly healed as a result. AR 60, 62. He has a limited range of motion in the right knee, coupled with "consistent" swelling in the right knee and foot. AR 60-61. Plaintiff indicated a cane was prescribed by "Dr. Flum" at the time he underwent surgery on his right knee. AR 61. Plaintiff also suffers from anxiety and mood swings. AR 61. "[A] lot of mental [anxiety] . . . aggravating all of the other injuries" he suffered from prior to the car accident. AR 61. He does not like to be around a lot of people; he prefers to stay secluded and unto himself where he 3

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28

is most comfortable. AR 65-66. Being around others makes him nervous; he believes they are watching him. AR 66. A doctor prescribed Wellbutrin; sometimes it helps and other times it does not. AR 67. Following the car accident, Plaintiff also suffered injuries to his left shoulder and left knee. The left knee is an on-and-off again situation. He believes those injuries "aggravate[] everything else that was there and intensi[fy] the headaches even more." AR 61. When asked how long he could stand without requiring a break, Plaintiff indicated if it were a bad day he could stand for about fifteen to twenty minutes before needing a break. He suffers bad days about four or five days a week. AR 62-63. Plaintiff can sit for about thirty to forty minutes before he would need to stand up and move around. AR 63-64. He can lift ten to fifteen pounds, but cannot do so repetitively. He surmised he could lift that weight four or five times during the course of a day. AR 64. Plaintiff cannot grasp items well because his hands are "clumsy." AR 64. He has carpal tunnel syndrome in both hands, and suffers from tremors in both hands. He has dropped items several times as a result of this condition. AR 65. The side effects from prescribed medications cause Plaintiff difficulty as well. He is "drowsy all the time [and] nauseous." AR 67. Anti-inflammatories will intensify his headaches for "three, four, five days straight." AR 68. The ALJ asked Plaintiff to imagine an eight-hour work day. Considering morning and afternoon breaks, and a one-hour lunch period, the ALJ asked how long he could stand. Plaintiff replied "[a]bout two and a half hours if that." AR 70. Asked how much walking he could do, with or without a cane, Plaintiff replied that he could not walk much without the cane. Using the cane, Plaintiff could walk about a half a block to a block. AR 69-70. Plaintiff believes he could lift and carry seven to ten pounds during day, with his cane. AR 70-71. He could sit for about forty-five minutes to an hour during the course of an eight-hour workday. AR 71. Plaintiff typically spends his day lying, sitting and standing, trying to get comfortable. He will try to make the bed. He has attempted to do some cooking, but he had an accident and his wife does not want him in the kitchen. On that particular occasion, he did not realize the pot was 4

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28

hot, touched the lid and burned the insides of his hands. He drives short distances when necessary. AR 72-73. When Plaintiff last worked in 2002, he was working at a warehouse for a specialty food store. The warehouse would deliver high end foods to restaurants in the area. He operated a forklift, supervised others, and assisted the drivers when the job called for a two-man delivery. AR 74-75. In that position, he would lift and carry well over 50 to 150 pounds. AR 75. Plaintiff also has previous experience in child care. He worked for the Mission of the Immaculate Virgin, assisting children with disabilities and mental disorders at a group home facility. He was a child care counselor on site from 4 p.m. in the afternoon until midnight. He assisted the children with homework after school, various activities, et cetera. The counselors "were like parents." AR 7576. The position did require the ability to restrain children who may weigh up to 250 to 300 pounds. AR 77. Additionally, Plaintiff worked as an institutional cook for the North Hampton County Board of Education, and was a machine operator at Borden Chemical on the east coast. He ran product through a "splitter." In both the institutional cook and machine operator positions, he would lift 50 to 100 pounds. AR 76-77. VE Chaparro testified that Plaintiff's previous work included the following Dictionary of Occupational Titles ("DOT") codes: children's institutional attendant, defined as medium yet performed as heavy work, DOT 359.677-010; store laborer, unskilled, DOT 922.687-058; institutional cook, defined as medium work, DOT 315.361-010. AR 78-81. The VE was asked to consider several hypothetical questions posed by the ALJ. First, the VE was asked to assume a thirty-eight year old individual with a twelfth grade education and the past work experience previously described, who has the ability to lift and carry twenty pounds occasionally and ten pounds frequently, with the ability to stand and walk for six hours of an eight-hour work day, who can perform simple repetitive tasks and can maintain attention, concentration, persistence and pace, has the ability to relate to and interact with others and adapt to usual changes in the workplace and can adhere to safety rules, but must avoid concentrated exposure to loud noise. AR 81. The VE opined that such an individual would be unable to perform Plaintiff's past work. AR 81-82. However, such an individual could perform jobs in the 5

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28

national economy. For example, the individual could perform work as a bottling line attendant, a light, unskilled position, DOT 920.687-042. There are currently 1,000 such jobs in California and 7,500 nationally. AR 81-82. The individual could also perform work as a case splitter of meat products, light, unskilled, DOT 525.687-014. There are approximately 900 jobs in California and 9,800 nationally. Lastly, the individual could perform work as a housekeeping cleaner, light, unskilled, DOT 323.687-014. There are approximately 18,900 positions in California and 143,300 nationally. AR 82. In a second hypothetical, the ALJ asked the VE to assume an individual with the same vocational parameters, but whom could stand two and a half hours in an eight-hour work day, could walk the distance of one block, could sit for forty-five to sixty minutes in an eight-hour work day, could lift ten to fifteen pounds occasionally and seven to ten pounds frequently, who had difficulty gripping and grasping, must avoid exposure to large crowds and loud noise, and must avoid dominant use of the right upper extremity in overhead activities. AR 83. This individual could not perform Plaintiff's past work according to the VE. Further, this individual would be unable to perform any work in the national economy. AR 83. In a third hypothetical posed by Plaintiff's counsel, the VE was asked to assume that the individual in hypothetical number one also was unable to perform fine hand manipulations. The VE indicated such an individual would be unable to perform work as a bottling line attendant or housekeeping cleaner. AR 84. Asked to add a moderate limitation regarding the ability to work with other, interact appropriately with the general public, ask simple questions or request assistance, accept instructions and respond appropriately to criticism by supervisors, with a moderate ability get along with coworkers or peers, and moderate ability to set realistic goals and make plans independently of others, the VE opined that such an individual would be unable to perform any of the jobs identified. AR 84. Next, the VE was asked to assume what impact the individual's need for a cane at all times would have such that the individual could perform a job with one hand. The VE responded such an individual could not perform the jobs he identified previously. AR 85-86. Thereafter, the VE was asked to assume the same individual in the third hypothetical scenario, including the 6

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28

limitation regarding fine hand manipulation, who could stand and walk for two hours in an eighthour day and sit for six hours in an eight-hour day, such that the individual was limited to sedentary work. The VE indicated that the individual would be unable to perform the previously identified positions as a bottling line attendant and housekeeping cleaner, but could still perform the duties of a case splitter. AR 86. Lastly, the VE was asked to assume that the individual had the ability to lift five pounds, stand and walk less than two hours in an eight-hour work day, sit less than six hours in an eight-hour work day, without the ability to lift, carry, reach, pull, and push with his shoulder, including the limitation related to fine hand manipulation. Such an individual, according to the VE, would be unable to perform any other work. AR 87. Medical Record The entire medical record was reviewed by the Court. A summary of the most relevant reports and treatment notes is provided below. Bellevue Hospital Center Records of January 24, 2002, indicate Plaintiff was seen in the emergency room after sustaining injuries when a hand truck weighing 100 pounds fell on him. Plaintiff complained of pain to the right ear, right shoulder, right elbow and right knee. AR 183-187. A radiology report of that same date of the C-spine reveals prevertebral soft tissues within normal limits, normal alignment and height of the vertebral bodies, and intervertebral disc spaces within the normal range. No acute fracture or dislocation was found. AR 188. A CT scan of Plaintiff's head on January 24, 2002, revealed no acute intracranial pathology. AR 189, 193. X-rays of the right elbow and right shoulder likewise revealed no acute fracture or dislocation. AR 191-192. Donald R. Weisman, M.D. Dr. Weisman treated Plaintiff with regard to the hearing loss in his right ear on a single occasion, March 7, 2002. His treating diagnosis was sensorineural hearing loss. Dr. Weisman's findings revealed audiometer testing with reduced findings in the right ear, to wit: Decibels 500 HZ 1000 HZ Left Ear 15 15 7 Right Ear 60 45

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28

2000 HZ 3000 HZ

10 30

55 60

The testing did not include the use of a hearing aid. Plaintiff's ability to produce speech which can be heard, understood and sustained was good. Dr. Weisman's notes indicate he could not answer an inquiry as to Plaintiff's work-related physical activities and any limitations thereto. The records indicate Plaintiff failed to keep three additional follow-up appointments. AR 216222; see also AR 270. Cabrini Medical Center Plaintiff underwent right knee surgery, performed by surgeon Francis A. Pflum, M.D., on May 24, 2002, to repair a tear of the medial meniscus. Surgical repairs were made by way of arthroscopy, partial medial meniscectomy, and chondroplasty. AR 226-227. Physical Therapy Records A May 29, 2002, record of Arthur J. Nelson, Ph.D., F.A.P.T.A., records subjective complaints of sleep disturbance due to pain in the morning and evening, loss of hearing in the right ear, "pulling" on the right side of the neck, continuous low back pain, and pain rated at a 9.5 on a scale of 1 to 10. AR 210. Dr. Nelson's objective findings include active cervical ROM on the CROM device with findings of rotation on the left side at thirty-five degrees and twenty-five degrees on the right side with pain; flexion of twenty-five percent on the left side with pain; extension of twenty degrees on the left side with pain; and lateral flexion of twenty-five percent on both the left and right sides with pain. AR 210. A positive Tinel's sign was noted at the right elbow, and numbness present at the right leg, and right forearm and hand. AR 211. Dr. Nelson's treatment goals included decreased pain, increased flexibility, and strengthening of the right upper extremities, neck, truck and right leg. Treatment was recommended three times a week for a four-week period. AR 211. A June 13, 2002, evaluation by Dr. Nelson notes sixty-five percent flexion of the right knee with the ability to straighten the knee. AR 214. Plaintiff was also seen in Dr. Nelson's office on June 6, 13, 20. AR 213, 215-216.

8

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28

Dr. Charles Connolly Chiropractor Charles Connolly examined Plaintiff on May 31, 2002. The doctor's diagnosis included cervical disc displacement, cervalgia, thoraco-lumbar radiculopathy, lumbar myofascitis/lumbalgia, and left knee pain. AR 239. Dr. Connolly's treatment plan included sessions two to three times per week, consisting of manipulation, trigger point therapy and various stretching techniques. Prognosis was guarded. AR 240. Dr. Eleanor Lipovsky, M.D. Internist Eleanor Lipovsky, M.D., completed an internal medicine consultation on June 3, 2002. Her objective findings regarding Plaintiff included a normal general appearance, and limping gait with use of walking cane. Normal findings were recorded regarding the head, neck, chest, and abdomen. Decreased range of motion was present in the cervical and lumbar spine. Muscle spasm and tenderness were present as well. Straight leg raising test was positive on both sides. Muscle spasm, tenderness and decreased range of motion were recorded in both knees, with swelling and increased palpitation and spasm upon palpitation. AR 244-245. Dr. Lipovsky diagnosed headaches, anxiety, cervical spine sprain/strain, lumbosacral sprain/strain, bilateral knee sprain/strain, and sought to rule out cervical disc displacement, cervical radiculitis/radiculopathy, lumbosacral disc displacement, lumbosacral radiculitis/radiculopathy, and bilateral knee ligament tear/meniscus tear. AR 245. The doctor's treatment plan involved no heavy work, physical therapy and a home exercise rehabilitation program. Numerous referrals were made for further testing and evaluation. Plaintiff was prescribed Motrin and Flexeril. AR 246. Dr. Lipovsky noted a guarded prognosis. AR 247. Plaintiff attended physical therapy following referral by Dr. Lipovsky at Physical Therapy, P.C., at the same location. See AR 248-252. Richmond Radiology, P.C. Plaintiff was seen by Board Certified Radiologist Robert D. Solomon, M.D., on June 7, 2002, for an x-ray of the left knee. The doctor's impressions included patellar spurs, equivocal bone island distal femur, and lucency with some sclerosis proximal tibia of uncertain significance. AR 234. An MRI of the cervical spine performed this same date revealed 9

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28

straightened cervical lordosis, prominent adenoids and palatine tonsils, C3-C-4, C4-C5 and C5C6 central herniations, and cord compression and spinal stenosis. AR 235. On July 1, 2002, Dr. Solomon performed an MRI of the left knee. Comparison was made to the earlier x-ray. Dr. Solomon's impression included intrameniscal signal, posterior horn medial meniscus, and bone island formation of the distal femur. AR 233. Plaintiff was seen by Dr. Solomon again on July 17, 2002. An MRI of the lumbar spine revealed a moderate bulging disc at L5-S1, with thecal sac effacement and bilateral neural canal narrowing. The remainder of the study was normal. Dr. Solomon's impression included straightened lumbar lordosis, transitional vertebrae, lumbo-sacral junction, moderate disc bulging at L5-S1, and resulting thecal sac effacement and bilateral neural canal narrowing. AR 231. Richmond Imaging An MRI of the right shoulder was performed on March 21, 2002, by Alan Berlly, M.D. Dr. Berlly's impression noted no evidence of a rotator cuff tear, and minor degenerative changes of the AC joint without evidence of impingement. AR 378, 389. An MRI of the head was performed on November 25, 2002, by Alan Berlly, M.D. Dr. Berlly's impression included normal non-gadolinium enhanced MRI of the brain. Some rhinosinusitis was noted, but otherwise the examination findings were normal. AR 271-272 An MRI of the cervical spine was performed on December 6, 2002, by David Rosenthal, M.D. Dr. Rosenthal's impression included bulging of the annulus at C3-4, C4-5 and C5-6, including reversal of the normal cervical lordosis suggesting spasm; suggestion of a 10mm signal alteration involving the dorsal aspect of the cord at C3-4 with suggestion of slight cord expansion and the possibility of cord contusion. AR 262-263. A February 6, 2003, MRI of the cervical spine by Karl Hussman, M.D., included the impression of a solitary cord lesion centrally, slightly toward the right of midline at C3, with no appreciable change from the December 2002 examination; a 3mm ventral subluxation of C6 under C5, unchanged; and bulges at C3/4 through C5/6 with cord contact at C4/5, unchanged. AR 261.

10

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28

Staten Island Chiropractic In a report apparently prepared for the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, David C. Abrams, D.C., reported he first treated Plaintiff on February 20, 2003. His treating diagnosis included cervical disc bulges at C3-C4, C4-C5 and C5-C6, right bronchial neuritis, pain in right shoulder and suspected herniated thoracic disc. AR 253. Dr. Abrams indicated limitations including the ability to lift and carry five pounds, stand and/or walk less than two hours per day, sit less than six hours per day, and an inability to "lift, carry, push, pull, work over shoulder level or do fine hand manipulation." AR 256. John C. L'Insalata, M.D. A June 19, 2003, report by Dr. John C. L'Insalata of Orthopaedic Surgical Consultants, P.C., notes Plaintiff advised the doctor his injuries occurred on January 24, 2002, when he was moving a "300 or 400 pound hand truck" and it fell and struck him on the shoulder, knocking him down. Plaintiff advised he was treated in the ER for a "`dislocated'" shoulder. AR 264. A physical examination revealed a "painful arc in the right shoulder" with restricted movement, crepitus of the shoulder with range of motion, and tenderness at the AC joint. Plaintiff was mildly positive for impingement and positive for supraspinatus stress test with mild relative weakness. Good strength was noted on internal rotation. It is noted that elbow, wrist, hand, and left upper extremity motion and exams were normal. AR 264. Dr. L'Insalata's impression involved right shoulder stiffness with secondary impingement, status post previous dislocation with probable AC sprain with some secondary degenerative changes, and cervical strain. Plaintiff was to provide the doctor with his MRI report for review and return for further treatment. AR 265; see also AR 286-287, 321-322, 381-384, 462-463. A treatment note dated September 9, 2003, includes an impression of right shoulder status post sprain probable dislocation, possible SLAP tear versus labral tear, and secondary impingement following physical examination. The doctor requested authorization of right shoulder arthroscopic surgery. AR 315.

11

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28

A treatment note dated September 30, 2003, includes an impression of right shoulder status post sprain/dislocation, rule out SLAP tear, and labral tear with secondary impingement following a physical examination. AR 312. A treatment note dated October 9, 2003, includes an impression of right shoulder biceps tenosynovitis with probable SLAP tear, and possible anterior labral tear with secondary impingement following physical examination and review of the MRI films. AR 311. Dr. L'Insalata performed surgery for a torn rotator cuff on Plaintiff's right shoulder on December 18, 2003. The findings reported were a 2+ inferior laxity, 2+ posterior laxity, and negative sulcus sign compared to 1+ anterior and 2+ posterior laxity on the left shoulder, a 7mm tear at the anterior-inferior labrum, mild chondral injury, a type 1 tear at the superior labrum, high-grade partial tearing of the supraspinatus, and a large amount of subacromial bursitis and some thickening of the coracoacromial ligament. AR 390-396. Noel Fleischer, M.D. A report dated April 25, 2003, by Noel Fleischer, M.D., a Board Certified Neurologist with New York Neurology, P.C., included results of a neurologic examination and electrodiagnostic testing. The doctor's impression revealed slowing of the left median distal motor latency and both median sensory conduction velocities consistent with left greater than right carpal tunnel syndrome, and essentially normal upper extremity and cervical EMG findings. AR 275; see also AR 288-289. Dr. Fleischer also performed an examination of Plaintiff on May 13, 2005. The report indicates Dr. Fleischer performed a lower extremity EMG study revealing left L5-S1 radiculopathy, and an EMG of the upper extremities evidencing bilateral carpal tunnel syndrome. The doctor noted "a suggestion of left cervical radiculopathy as well." AR 179. Plaintiff was awake, alert and oriented during the examination, but had mild short-term memory problems with diminished hearing in the right ear. Tenderness in the cervical and lumbosacral regions was present, as was spasm with impaired range of motion on cervical extension, rotation and lateral flexion, of approximately twenty-five percent. Lumbosacral flexion, extension and rotation was limited to a thirty to forty percent extent. AR 180; see also AR 466-468. 12

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28

Plaintiff's right shoulder exhibited surgical scarring and limited range of motion in the right shoulder to eighty degrees. Surgical scarring and limited movement of zero to sixty degrees was present in the right knee. Left knee movement was limited to zero to ninety degrees. Bilateral postural hand tremors were present as well. Pin prick testing revealed diminution in the right knee and both hands. The right deltoid was weak, as were both hand grips and both tibialis anteriori. Straight leg raising was positive bilaterally at approximately forty degrees. Gait was antalgic with use of a cane. AR 180. Dr. Fleischer diagnosed a post-concussion syndrome with right-sided hearing loss, traumatic cervical radiculopathy, bilateral carpal tunnel syndrome, traumatic lumbar radiculopathy, internal derangement of the left knee, status-post right knee surgery, status-post right shoulder surgery and bilateral upper extremity tremors. AR 180. Medications included Percocet, Flexeril, Naprosyn and Motrin. Dr. Fleischer believed the prognosis for a full recovery was "quite poor" as it had been more than three years since Plaintiff's motor vehicle accident in May 2002. AR 180. In Dr. Fleischer's opinion, Plaintiff was "disabled from any occupation due to his marked limitation of movement and difficulty sitting and bending." AR 181. Radiology Services of New York, P.C. A report dated October 7, 2003, following an MR arthorogram of the right shoulder revealed a Grade I SLAP tear versus mild degeneration, and moderate sized partial undersurface tear of the infraspinatus tendon. AR 379-380, 387-388. Andrew T. Cheng, M.D., F.A.C.S. On January 6, 2004, Dr. Cheng prepared an examination report concerning Plaintiff. Plaintiff was seen that same date and complained of right-sided ear ache and hearing loss following injury in January 2002. A physical examination revealed normal external ears, ear canals and tympanic membranes. Normal hearing status was detected in the left ear, however, hearing acuity was decreased in the right ear. Following audiometric testing, Dr. Cheng's clinical diagnosis was moderate/severe neuro-sensory hearing loss, permanent in the right ear. Dr. Cheng recommended Plaintiff use a hearing aid. AR 302; see also AR 303-304.

13

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28

Regional Radiology An MRI of the cervical spine dated January 7, 2004, revealed degenerative changes involving the C5-6 level with no significant radiographic abnormality of the lumbar spine. AR 339. Chitoor S. Govindaraj, M.D. Dr. Govindaraj performed a physical examination of Plaintiff on January 14, 2004, for the New York State Department of Temporary and Disability Assistance. The doctor's diagnoses included status post right shoulder surgery, acute, awaiting rehabilitation; history of hypertension; history of myocardial infarction; history of right shoulder dislocation; history of low back syndrome; and history of right knee injury. The doctor indicated Plaintiff's overall prognosis was good. AR 335-336; see also AR 340-343. Rajam Theventhiran, M.D. Dr. Theventhiran performed a mental status examination of Plaintiff on February 28, 2004, for the New York State Department of Temporary and Disability Assistance. Plaintiff reported difficulties including a lack of social activity, easy to anger, occasionally yelling at others, and loss of enjoyment of activities, following a work related injury wherein "a 400 pound weight fell on top of his body." AR 324. Plaintiff provided a medical history that includes a heart attack in February 2003, severe back, shoulder and neck pain, as well as bilateral knee pain. AR 324. A notation under the mental status examination portion of the doctor's report notes Plaintiff was "irritable and angry at times during the interview" but was otherwise appropriate. AR 325. Speech was normal, thought process and content were normal, and Plaintiff reported no feelings of guilt, hopelessness or worthlessness. He did not suffer from auditory or visual hallucinations, and had no suicidal or homicidal ideation. Plaintiff was oriented to time, place and person. He was only able to remember one of three objects, but could remember his Social Security number and phone number. His intellectual functioning was fair, and insight and judgment were limited regarding the need for treatment. AR 325.

14

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28

Plaintiff was living with his parents and would occasionally cook for himself and perform basic cleaning chores. His parents typically helped him with the shopping. He could drive and use public transportation. He indicated he had no friends, nor did he have any hobbies. AR 325. Dr. Theventhiran's diagnosis was adjustment disorder not otherwise specified. The doctor recommended psychiatric treatment and evaluation. AR 325-326; see also AR 329-332. Andrew M. G. Davy, M.D. In a March 8, 2004, consultation with Dr. Davy regarding pain management, Plaintiff reported he was involved in a work related injury wherein 400 pounds of merchandise fell on him, crushing him. He reported a loss of consciousness, dislocated right shoulder, concussion, right knee injury, right-sided hearing loss, and headaches. AR 276. His primary complaints during the examination involved the upper back with secondary neck and lower back pain. He reported high levels of pain on a scale of one to ten. Plaintiff also reported tingling and numbness in the fingers of both hands from the third to fifth digit. AR 276-277. A physical examination included notations of a marked antalgic gait to the right, pain on forward flexion and increased pain on extension of the lumbosacral spine, straight leg raises were positive at thirty degrees, a positive Spurling's sign bilaterally on the neck, and multiple areas of tense trigger points throughout the cervical and shoulders. The doctor's initial diagnoses included upper back pain secondary to multiple myofascial trigger points; neck pain secondary to cervical disc disease, cervical radiculopathy, post-traumatic disc pathology, multiple myofascial trigger points and possible facet syndrome; and low back pain secondary to post-traumatic disc pathology, lumbar disc disease, lumbar facet syndrome and multiple myofascial trigger points. AR 279. Dr. Davy recommended prescription medication changes, and sought authorization for ten medical follow up visits, lumbar epidural steroid injections, cervical epidural steroid injections and trigger point injections in the neck and upper back. AR 279. Dr. Davy noted that Plaintiff remained "temporarily totally disabled from all work activities." AR 280; see also AR 452-456. Physical Residual Functional Capacity Assessment In a March 18, 2004, physical RFC assessment, J. Shelp, D.A. II, reported the following limitations. Exertional limitations included occasional lifting and carrying of twenty pounds, 15

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28

frequent lifting and carrying of ten pounds, standing and/or walking for about six hours in an eight-hour work day, sitting about six hours in an eight-hour work day, and unlimited pushing and pulling. AR 345. Postural limitations included only occasional climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching and crawling. AR 346. Manipulative limitations included limited reaching in all directions, and no limitations regarding handling, fingering and feeling. AR 346. No visual, communicative or environmental limitations were identified. AR 347. Mental Residual Functional Capacity Assessment In a mental RFC assessment of March 25, 2004, Jane Stafford, Ph.D., reported the following conclusions. Plaintiff was not significantly limited in the area of understanding and memory. AR 351. With regard to sustained concentration and persistence, he was moderately limited in the ability to work in coordination with or proximity to others without being distracted by them; otherwise, he was not significantly limited in this area. AR 351. With regard to social interaction, Dr. Stafford found Plaintiff to be moderately limited in his ability to interact appropriately with the public, ask simple questions or request assistance, accept instructions and respond appropriately to criticism from supervisors, and get along with coworkers or peers without distracting them or exhibiting behavioral extremes. He was not significantly limited in his ability to maintain socially appropriate behavior and to adhere to basic standards of neatness and cleanliness. AR 352. Finally, Plaintiff was moderately limited in adaptation with regard to the ability to set realistic goals or make plans independently of others; otherwise, he was not significantly limited in this area. AR 352. Dr. Stafford concluded Plaintiff was "able to perform simple, [entry level] work." AR 353. Dr. Stafford completed a Psychiatric Review Technique form on March 25, 2004, as well. Her medical disposition was based upon an affective disorder that does not precisely satisfy diagnostic criteria. AR 355-358. Functional limitations were not present in the activities of daily living, were moderate regarding maintaining social functioning, and were mild regarding maintaining concentration, persistence and pace. It was noted Plaintiff had never suffered from repeated episodes of deterioration or of an extended duration. AR 365.

16

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28

Kaiser Permanente Generally speaking, the records reveal Plaintiff continues to complain of chronic back and neck pain, headaches and shoulder pain. See AR 472-487. ALJ's Findings The ALJ determined that Plaintiff had not engaged in substantial gainful activity since January 24, 2002, and had the severe impairments of degenerative disc disease, hearing loss, and an adjustment disorder. AR 22. Nonetheless, the ALJ determined that none of the severe impairments met or exceeded one of the listing impairments. AR 23. Based on his review of the medical evidence, the ALJ determined that Plaintiff retained the residual functional capacity ("RFC") to perform a significant number of jobs. He could lift and carry ten pounds frequently and twenty pounds occasionally, and stand, walk and sit for six hours out of an eight-hour workday, could perform simple repetitive tasks, maintain attention, concentration, persistence and pace, relate to and interact with others, adapt to usual changes in work setting and adhere to safety rules, yet must avoid concentrated exposure to loud noise. AR 25-27. Given this RFC, the ALJ found that Plaintiff could not return to his past work as a warehouseman, institutional cook, child counselor or machine operator. AR 27. Nevertheless, the ALJ found that Plaintiff could perform jobs that exist in significant numbers in the national economy. AR 27-28. SCOPE OF REVIEW Congress has provided a limited scope of judicial review of the Commissioner's decision to deny benefits under the Act. In reviewing findings of fact with respect to such determinations, the Court must determine whether the decision of the Commissioner is supported by substantial evidence. 42 U.S.C. § 405 (g). Substantial evidence means "more than a mere scintilla," Richardson v. Perales, 402 U.S. 389, 402 (1971), but less than a preponderance. Sorenson v. Weinberger, 514 F.2d 1112, 1119, n. 10 (9th Cir. 1975). It is "such relevant evidence as a reasonable mind might accept as adequate to support a conclusion." Richardson, 402 U.S. at 401. The record as a whole must be considered, weighing both the evidence that supports and 17

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28

the evidence that detracts from the Commissioner's conclusion. Jones v. Heckler, 760 F.2d 993, 995 (9th Cir. 1985). In weighing the evidence and making findings, the Commissioner must apply the proper legal standards. E.g., Burkhart v. Bowen, 856 F.2d 1335, 1338 (9th Cir. 1988). This Court must uphold the Commissioner's determination that the claimant is not disabled if the Secretary applied the proper legal standards, and if the Commissioner's findings are supported by substantial evidence. See Sanchez v. Sec'y of Health and Human Serv., 812 F.2d 509, 510 (9th Cir. 1987). REVIEW In order to qualify for benefits, a claimant must establish that he is unable to engage in substantial gainful activity due to a medically determinable physical or mental impairment which has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than twelve months. 42 U.S.C. § 1382c (a)(3)(A). A claimant must show that he has a physical or mental impairment of such severity that he is not only unable to do her previous work, but cannot, considering his age, education, and work experience, engage in any other kind of substantial gainful work which exists in the national economy. Quang Van Han v. Bowen, 882 F.2d 1453, 1456 (9th Cir. 1989). The burden is on the claimant to establish disability. Terry v. Sullivan, 903 F.2d 1273, 1275 (9th Cir. 1990). In an effort to achieve uniformity of decisions, the Commissioner has promulgated regulations which contain, inter alia, a five-step sequential disability evaluation process. 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1520 (a)-(f), 416.920 (a)-(f) (1994). Applying this process in this case, the ALJ found that Plaintiff: (1) had not engaged in substantial gainful activity since the alleged onset of his disability; (2) has an impairment or a combination of impairments that is considered "severe" based on the requirements in the Regulations (20 CFR §§ 416.920(b)); (3) does not have an impairment or combination of impairments which meets or equals one of the impairments set forth in Appendix 1, Subpart P, Regulations No. 4; (4) cannot perform his past relevant work as a janitor or dishwasher; yet (5) retained the RFC to perform light work. AR 11-18. Here, Plaintiff argues that the ALJ impermissibly dismissed the examining physician's opinion, improperly considered his pain and subjective complaints, erred in his RFC finding and 18

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28

finding that Plaintiff could perform other work. He contends this Court should reverse and order the immediate payment of benefits. DISCUSSION A. Treating and Examining Physicians

Plaintiff contends the ALJ failed to give appropriate weight to the reports of Plaintiff's treating and examining physicians. (Doc. 11 at 17-21.) The Commissioner respond the ALJ assigned proper weight in accordance with the record. (Doc. 13 at 7-10.) Cases in this circuit distinguish among the opinions of three types of physicians: (1) those who treat the claimant (treating physicians); (2) those who examine but do not treat the claimant (examining physicians); and (3) those who neither examine nor treat the claimant (nonexamining physicians). As a general rule, more weight should be given to the opinion of a treating source than to the opinion of doctors who do not treat the claimant. Winans v. Bowen, 853 F.2d 643, 647 (9th Cir. 1987). At least where the treating doctor's opinion is not contradicted by another doctor, it may be rejected only for "clear and convincing" reasons. Baxter v. Sullivan, 923 F.2d 1391, 1396 (9th Cir. 1991). Even if the treating doctor's opinion is contradicted by another doctor, the Commissioner may not reject this opinion without providing "specific and legitimate reasons" supported by substantial evidence in the record for so doing. Murray v. Heckler, 722 F.2d 499, 502 (9th Cir. 1983). The opinion of an examining physician is, in turn, entitled to greater weight than the opinion of a nonexamining physician. Pitzer v. Sullivan, 908 F.2d 502, 506 (9th Cir. 1990); Gallant v. Heckler, 753 F.2d 1450 (9th Cir. 1984). As is the case with the opinion of a treating physician, the Commissioner must provide "clear and convincing" reasons for rejecting the uncontradicted opinion of an examining physician. Pitzer, 908 F.2d at 506. And like the opinion of a treating doctor, the opinion of an examining doctor, even if contradicted by another doctor, can only be rejected for specific and legitimate reasons that are supported by substantial evidence in the record. Andrews v. Shalala, 53 F.3d 1035, 1043 (9th Cir. 1995). The opinion of a nonexamining physician cannot, by itself, constitute substantial evidence that justifies the rejection of the opinion of either an examining physician or a treating physician. 19

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28

Pitzer, 908 F.2d at 506, n. 4; Gallant, 753 F.2d at 1456. In some cases, however, the ALJ can reject the opinion of a treating or examining physician, based in part on the testimony of a nonexamining medical advisor. E.g., Magallanes v. Bowen, 881 F.2d 747, 751-55 (9th Cir. 1989); Andrews, 53 F.3d at 1043; Roberts v. Shalala, 66 F.3d 179 (9th Cir. 1995). For example, in Magallanes, the Ninth Circuit explained that in rejecting the opinion of a treating physician, "the ALJ did not rely on [the nonexamining physician's] testimony alone to reject the opinions of Magallanes's treating physicians . . .." Magallanes, 881 F.2d at 752. Rather, there was an abundance of evidence that supported the ALJ's decision: the ALJ also relied on laboratory test results, on contrary reports from examining physicians, and on testimony from the claimant that conflicted with her treating physician's opinion. Id. at 751-52. Plaintiff complains that the ALJ did not state how the objective evidence in Dr. Fleischer's May 2005 report does not support the marked limitation of movement and difficulty sitting and bending. He points to the doctor's findings on examination at pages 466 through 468 of the administrative record. (Doc. 11 at 17.) The ALJ noted: An examination by Dr. Noel Fleischer in May 2005 demonstrated limited range of motion in the cervical and lumbar spine as well as positive straight leg raising. There was decreased pinprick sensation in the right knee and both hands, but it is not clear that any of this would have been related to the claimant's degenerative disc disease. There was also weakness in the right deltoid, both hand grips, and both tibialis anteriori, but no mention of any atrophy. Dr. Fleischer noted no reflex loss. There is no further record of examination until the claimant was seen at Kaiser Permanente a year and a half later in December 2006 complaining of sudden onset of low back pain radiating to both legs. There was limitation of motion of the lumbar spine, muscle strength was 4/5 bilaterally, and reflexes were "slightly exaggerated". Subsequent examinations in January and February 2007 demonstrated 5/5 muscle strength and negative straight leg raising. These objective clinical findings do not satisfy the criteria of Section 1.04A. (AR 24-25, internal citations omitted.) Later, the ALJ found: [T]he record also includes a report dated May 13, 2005, from Dr. Noel Fleischer wherein he stated that the claimant was disabled at that time from performing any occupation due to "marked limitation of movement and difficulty sitting and bending". It appears that Dr. Fleischer's familiarity with the claimant is limited as he had previously seen the claimant on only one occasion when he administered electrodiagnostic testing in April 2003. In addition, Dr. Fleischer's May 2005 report is not supported by objective evidence. In fact, while he stated in that report that the claimant's EMG was suggestive of left cervical radiculopathy, his earlier report says the cervical needle EMG study was 20

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28

essentially normal. In addition, it appears that the claimant was not subsequently treated for these "disabling" impairments until late 2006. In any event, Dr. Fleischer was asked to clarify his findings in a letter dated March 22, 2007, but he did not respond. For those reasons, little weight has been given to Dr. Fleischer's opinion. (AR 26, internal citations omitted.) Additional records were available to the ALJ that included essentially normal examination findings in January 2004 ["neck movements normal," "range of motion [in spine] totally was within normal limits," ["Posture is normal. The patient does not use a cane for ambulation . . . Hand dexterity normal. No evidence of muscle spasm. Straight leg raising test normal" (see AR 335), and a finding that Plaintiff was capable of sedentary work in July 2004 by a doctor who saw him frequently. More particularly regarding the latter, Dr. L'Insalata treated Plaintiff from June 2003 through July 2004 on approximately thirteen separate occasions. See AR 264-265, 381-384, 461-463; see also 401-402. With specific regard to the ALJ's reference to a gap in treatment, Plaintiff's assertion that he moved to California from New York, thus resulting in a delay of treatment, is unavailing on this record. The record establishes a delay in treatment of more than two years, save for a single examination in May 2005. See Bunnell v. Sullivan, 947 F.2d 341, 346-147 (9th Cir. 1991) ("Another relevant factor may be unexplained or inadequately explained failure to seek treatment or follow a prescribed course of treatment"). Moreover, Plaintiff has not provided any authority for his assertion that such a delay "is not a reason to reject Dr. Fleischer's findings." (Doc. 11 at 18.) Next, Plaintiff asserts the ALJ erred by failing to give great weight to the report of Dr. Davy because he did "not consider the objective evidence within" the report. (Doc. 11 at 19.) With regard to the report of Dr. Davy, the ALJ's findings state as follows: Dr. Andrew Davy, a pain management specialist who apparently examined the claimant on a single occasion on February 10, 2004, reported on March 8, 2004, that the claimant was "temporarily totally disabled". Little weight has been given to this opinion as it is based on a single examination, reaches a conclusion regarding disability without specific limitations, and only addresses the claimant's temporary status before recommended treatment was instituted. Unfortunately, it appears that the claimant did not return to Dr. Davy for follow up.

21

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28

AR 26, internal citations omitted. Dr. Davy is an examining physician,3 thus, the ALJ was required to provide "clear and convincing" reasons if the doctor's opinion was uncontradicted, and specific and legitimate reasons if the opinion is contradicted. Pitzer v. Sullivan, 908 F.2d at 506; Andrews v. Shalala, 53 F.3d at 1043. The ALJ acknowledged that Dr. Davy examined Plaintiff, and while he did not provide a recitation of Dr. Davy's objective findings, the ALJ's decision at page 22 of the administrative record includes a notation that the "entire record" was carefully considered. The ALJ is not required to comment on every detail in every report. As noted in Vincent v. Heckler, 739 F.2d 1393, 1394-1395 (9th Cir. 1984), "[t]he Secretary . . . need not discuss all evidence presented to her. Rather, she must explain why `significant probative evidence has been rejected.'" A consultative examining physician is generally afforded less weight than that of a treating physician because the treating physician has a unique perspective that cannot be obtained from reports of an individual examination. Here, the ALJ provided specific and legitimate reasons for affording Dr. Davy's opinion little weight. Dr. Davy's report conflicted with the report of Dr. Govindaraj just one month prior. Cf. AR 333-336. With regard to the report of Dr. Abrams, the ALJ determined the following: [T]he June 29, 2004 form appears to have been completed by David C. Abrams, D.C., a chiropractor who treated the claimant beginning February 20, 2003. Dr. Abrams states on the June 29, 2004 form that the claimant is unable to lift, carry, climb, push, pull, work over shoulder level, or do fine hand manipulation and is totally disabled by permanent conditions. Although a chiropractor is not an acceptable medical source and his opinion is not a medical opinion, Dr. Abram's statement can be considered in determining the severity of the claimant's impairments and how they affect his ability to function pursuant to SSR 06-03p. However, the undersigned has given greater weight to the medical opinion evidence already mentioned above addressing the claimant's physical capacities. AR 25-26, internal citations omitted. A chiropractor is considered an "other source" opinion. See SSR 06-03p. Because a chiropractor is not an accepted medical source, and because the ALJ

A treating relationship is probably not established simply on the basis of one or even two examinations w h ic h were conducted at the request of another treating provider. See Ghokassian v. Shalala, 41 F.3d 1300, 1303 ( 9 th Cir.1994) (treating relationship established after two visits when claimant saw no other physicians during the p e r io d , requested treatment, received prescriptions, and described doctor as his treating physician).

3

22

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28

specifically stated he assigned greater weight to the accepted medical opinion evidence in the record, there was no error. It is the ALJ's duty to resolve conflicts and ambiguity in the evidence. See Morgan v. Commissioner, 169 F.3d 595, 599-600 (9th Cir.1999). It is not the role of the court to second-guess the ALJ. Allen v. Heckler, 749 F.2d 577, 579 (9th Cir.1984). The Court must affirm the ALJ's decision where the evidence is susceptible to more than one rational interpretation. Magallanes v. Bowen, 881 F.2d 747, 750 (9th Cir.1989). The court must uphold the ALJ's decision when it is not based on legal error and is supported by substantial evidence. Tackett v. Apfel, 180 F.3d 1094, 1097 (9th Cir.1999). In sum, ALJ Berry's findings in this regard are supported by substantial evidence and are free of legal error. B. The RFC

Plaintiff asserts the ALJ erred in determining his RFC. More particularly, Plaintiff argues that the treating physicians imposed greater restrictions than that reflected in the ALJ's findings, that Plaintiff's need for a cane was not considered, and neither were Plaintiff's complaints regarding constant headaches. (Doc. 11 at 21-23.) Residual functional capacity ("RFC") is an assessment of an individual's ability to do sustained work-related physical and mental activities in a work setting on a regular and continuing basis of eight hours a day, for five days a week, or equivalent work schedule. SSR 96-8p. The RFC assessment considers only functional limitations and restrictions which result from an individual's medically determinable impairment or combination of impairments. SSR 96-8p. "In determining a claimant's RFC, an ALJ must consider all relevant evidence in the record including, inter alia, medical records, lay evidence, and `the effects of symptoms, including pain, that are reasonably attributed to a medically determinable impairment.'" Robbins v. Social Security Admin., 466 F.3d 880, 883 (9th Cir. 2006). Here, the ALJ considered all relevant evidence in the record below, including the medical records particularly discussed above and included in the record. Plaintiff complains the "treating physicians found much greater restrictions" than the ALJ found. (Doc. 11 at 21.) Yet, as 23

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28

previously discussed, most of the physicians were examining physicians rather than treating physicians. Moreover, Dr. L'Insalata, a physician who treated Plaintiff for more than two years in New York, did not impose specific functional limitations. The ALJ considered all medical reports available in the record in determining Plaintiff's RFC. The ALJ is responsible for resolving conflicts in the medical evidence. Magallanes v. Bowen, 881 F.2d at 750. Plaintiff complains the ALJ's RFC finding is erroneous because it did "not consider the need for the claimant's use of a cane, which he testified was prescribed to him for balance and to take pressure off of his knee when standing and walking." (Doc. 11 at 21.) Plaintiff did in fact testify that he was prescribed a cane following surgery on his right knee, performed by Francis A. Pflum, M.D. AR 61. However, the Court's review of the record did not reveal evidence of such a prescription, and neither has Plaintiff directed this Court's attention to relevant administrative medical record documents in support of his claim. More particularly, Dr. Pflum's operative record does not include any notation regarding a cane. AR 226-227. There is insubstantial evidence that Plaintiff requires the use of a cane, as the only evidence offered is that of Plaintiff himself. Despite the fact that others may have concluded differently, where the ALJ's findings are supported by substantial evidence in the record, the findings are entitled to deference. Bayliss v. Barnhart, 427 F.3d 1211, 1214 (9th Cir. 2005). Next, Plaintiff asserts the ALJ's finding did not consider the "constant headaches that the claimant gets because of his cervical pain." (Doc. 11 at 21-22.) The ALJ's findings include specific references to MRIs of the cervical spine: "MRI of the cervical spine in June 2002 was interpreted as showing central herniation, cord compression, and spinal stenosis at C3-4, C4-5 and C5-6 . . .. On the other hand, a repeat MRI in December 2002 revealed only mild bulging of the annulus at hose three levels." AR 22. A CT scan of the head and MRI of the brain were normal. AR 23. Part and parcel to the ALJ's determination that Plaintiff's degenerative disc disease was not a severe impairment was the ALJ's consideration of the findings related to Plaintiff's spine. AR 22-23.

24

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 error.

With regard to Dr. Stafford's Mental Residual Functional Capacity Assessment, wherein Plaintiff asserts the ALJ failed to include those findings, the ALJ considered the findings in reaching his RFC assessment: Jane Stafford, Ph.D., a state agency psychologist, concluded that the claimant has the following degree of limitation in the broad areas of functioning set out in the disability regulations for evaluating mental disorders: no restriction of activities of daily living; moderate difficulties in maintaining social functioning; mild difficulties in maintaining concentration, persistence or pace; and no episodes of decompensation. She also found that the claimant fails to meet the "C" criteria of Section 12.04 of the Listings. The report of a consultative psychiatric examination in February 2004 generally supports that assessment. The report indicates that the claimant is able to take care of his activities of daily living, drive and use public transportation, do basic cleaning, and occasionally cook and shop. He denied any social activities and reported that he angers easily and sometimes yells at others. He was irritable and angry at times during the interview but was otherwise cooperative and appropriate. He did exhibit more than mild limitation in concentration as he was able to remember only one object out of three and had difficulty doing serial sevens. There is no evidence of any psychiatric hospitalization or other decompensation. In fact, there is no evidence of any true mental health treatment since the alleged onset date. Under the circumstances, the undersigned concurs in the assessment of Dr. Stafford except to find that the claimant has moderate limitation in maintaining concentration, persistence or pace. AR 25, emphasis added & internal citations omitted. The ALJ plainly explained his reasons for not including Dr. Stafford's findings regarding moderate limitation in maintaining concentration, persistence and pace: Dr. Stafford's findings conflict with the findings of Dr. Theventhiran completed one month earlier. Cf. AR 324-326. The ALJ's RFC determination is supported by substantial evidence and is free of legal

C.

Subjective Complaints & Pain Complaints

Plaintiff argues that the ALJ failed to properly evaluate his subjective complaints and pain complaints. (Doc. 11 at 23-25.) The Commissioner responds to the contrary, asserting that the ALJ's findings are supported by substantial evidence and are free of legal error. (Doc. 13 at 10-11.) The ALJ is required to make specific findings assessing the credibility of plaintiff's subjective complaints. Ceguerra v. Secretary of HHS, 933 F.2d 735 (9th Cir. 1991). In rejecting the complainant's testimony, "the ALJ must identify what testimony is not credible and what 25

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28

evidence undermines the claimant's complaints." Lester v. Chater, 81 F.3d 821, 834 (9th Cir. 1996) (quoting Varney v. Secretary of Health and Human Services, 846 F.2d 581, 584 (9th Cir. 1988)). "Despite the inability to measure and describe it, pain can have real and severe debilitating effects; it is, without a doubt, capable of entirely precluding a claimant from working." Fair v. Bowen, 885 F.2d 597, 601 (9th Cir. 1989). It is possible to suffer disabling pain even where the degree of pain is unsupported by objective medical findings. Id. "In order to disbelieve a claim of excess pain, an ALJ must make specific findings justifying that decision." Id. (citing Magallanes v. Bowen, 881 F.2d 747, 755 (9th Cir. 1989). The findings must convincingly justify the ALJ's rejection of the plaintiff's excess pain testimony. Id. at 602. However, an ALJ cannot be required to believe every allegation of disabling pain. "This holds true even where the claimant introduces medical evidence showing that he has an ailment reasonably expected to produce some pain." Id. at 603. Once a claimant produces medical evidence of an underlying impairment likely to cause the alleged pain, the ALJ may not discredit the allegations of the severity of the pain solely because the evidence does not support plaintiff's statements. Lester, 81 F.3d at 834 (citing Bunnell v. Sullivan, 947 F.2d 341, 343 (9th Cir. 1991)(en banc)) In this case, the ALJ did not ignore or reject plaintiff's testimony solely because it was unsupported by objective evidence. The ALJ also made other findings in support of his determination that plaintiff's complaints of pain were exaggerated. The Court turns to address these findings. In evaluating the credibility of the symptom testimony, it appears that the ALJ did consider all of the factors set out in SSR 96-7P and 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1529c(4)(i)(vii), 416.929(c)(4)(i)(vii). See Smolen v. Chater, 80 F.3d 1273, 1284 (9th Cir. 1996), and Bunnell, 947 F.2d at 346. The SSR directs the ALJ to: Investigate all avenues presented that relate to subjective complaints, including claimant's prior work record and information and observations by treating physicians and third parties regarding such matters as 1. The claimant's daily activities; 2. The location, duration, frequency, and intensity of claimant's symptoms or pain;

26

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28

3. Precipitating factors and aggravating factors; 4. Type, dosage, effectiveness, and adverse side effects of any pain medication; 5. Treatment, other than medication, for pain relief; 6. Any reasons used by the claimant to relieve the pain or symptoms; and 7. Other factors concerning the claimant's functional limitations and restrictions due to pain or other symptoms. The ALJ may use "ordinary techniques" in addressing credibility. Light v. Soc. Sec. Admin., 119 F.3d 789, 792 (9th Cir. 1997), and may make inferences "logically flowing from the evidence." Macri v. Chater, 93 F.3d 540, 544 (9th Cir. 1996). Here, the ALJ considered Plaintiff's subjective and pain complaints in the following passage: The claimant's statements regarding the severity of his symptoms and resulting limitations do not provide a reliable basis for imposing any further restrictions on his functional capacity. He testified that he stopped working in January 2002 after he injured his head, neck, back, right upper extremity, and right knee when he was crushed by about 400 pounds falling on him. However, it appears that the claimant has a tendency to exaggerate as the original emergency room records indicate that the accident involved a hand truck carrying 100 pounds. He testified that his right shoulder was dislocated at the time of the accident, but x-rays of the right shoulder at that time showed no acute fracture or dislocation. He described engaging in minimal daily activities due to his alleged symptoms and limitations, but his statements to the consultative psychiatrist indicate a broad and relatively normal range of daily activity. He stated that his medications cause drowsiness and nausea, but his medical treatment records reflect only a complaint of nausea from using a Duragesic Patch, for which he was given Phenergan to take as needed. Despite his complaints of disabling pain, there is nothing in the record showing any medical treatment or examination between July 2004 and September 2006 apart from the examination by Dr. Fleischer in May 2005 to obtain a medical report. Furthermore, in December 2006, he stated that he wanted to be treated conservatively and did not want to have any procedure, apparently referring to a recommendation that he have a lumbar epidural injection. Under the circumstances, the claimant's subjective complaints are not entirely credible. AR 26-27, internal citations omitted. An ALJ may consider a claimant's lack of medical treatment in assessing credibility. Burch v. Barnhart, 400 F.3d 676, 681 (9th Cir. 2005). This Court is mindful too that a claimant may not be denied disability benefits because he or she is unable to afford treatment. Orn v. Astrue, 495 F.3d 625 (9th Cir. 2007). Nonetheless, the evidence that Plaintiff directs this Court to in support of his apparent claim the ALJ should have questioned Plaintiff about the lack of treatment between July 2004 and September 2006, as it relates to Plaintiff's relocation from New 27

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28

York to California, is wholly persuasive. The ALJ's decision is dated July 3, 2007. Plaintiff directs this Court's attention to a copy of correspondence entitled "Wilbert Sebbern's response to unfavorable decision," dated August 11, 2007. AR 531-532. The ALJ could not have known that a purported cause for Plaintiff's delay in treatment was perhaps due to a lack of funds because there is no such evide