Claxton v. Astrue

Filing 17

ORDER denying plaintiff's motion for summary judgment and affirming the decision of the Commissioner. Signed by Magistrate Judge Robert E. Larsen on 9/29/2009. (Marullo, Carol)

IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT FOR THE WESTERN DISTRICT OF MISSOURI SOUTHERN DIVISION BRENTON CLAXTON, Plaintiff, v. MICHAEL J. ASTRUE, Commissioner of Social Security, Defendant. ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) )

Case No. 08-3329-CV-S-REL-SSA

ORDER DENYING PLAINTIFF'S MOTION FOR SUMMARY JUDGMENT Plaintiff Brenton Claxton seeks review of the final decision of the Commissioner of Social Security partially denying plaintiff's application for disability benefits under Titles II and XVI of the Social Security Act ("the Act"). Plaintiff argues

that the ALJ erred in interpreting the expert medical opinion of Dr. Michael Ball, and the ALJ erred in failing to give greater weight to plaintiff's testimony. I find that the substantial

evidence in the record as a whole supports the ALJ's finding that plaintiff was not disabled prior to July 28, 2005. Therefore,

plaintiff's motion for summary judgment will be denied and the decision of the Commissioner will be affirmed. I. BACKGROUND On September 6, 2005, plaintiff applied for disability benefits alleging that he had been disabled since February 1, 2000, amended to September 6, 2004. denied on November 19, 2006. Plaintiff's application was

On December 13, 2007, a hearing was

held before an Administrative Law Judge.

On February 11, 2008,

the ALJ found that plaintiff was disabled as of July 28, 2005, but not before. On July 9, 2008, the Appeals Council denied Therefore, the decision of the

plaintiff's request for review.

ALJ stands as the final decision of the Commissioner. II. STANDARD FOR JUDICIAL REVIEW Section 205(g) of the Act, 42 U.S.C. § 405(g), provides for judicial review of a "final decision" of the Commissioner. The

standard for judicial review by the federal district court is whether the decision of the Commissioner was supported by substantial evidence. 42 U.S.C. § 405(g); Richardson v. Perales,

402 U.S. 389, 401 (1971); Mittlestedt v. Apfel, 204 F.3d 847, 850-51 (8th Cir. 2000); Johnson v. Chater, 108 F.3d 178, 179 (8th Cir. 1997); Andler v. Chater, 100 F.3d 1389, 1392 (8th Cir. 1996). The determination of whether the Commissioner's decision

is supported by substantial evidence requires review of the entire record, considering the evidence in support of and in opposition to the Commissioner's decision. Universal Camera

Corp. v. NLRB, 340 U.S. 474, 488 (1951); Thomas v. Sullivan, 876 F.2d 666, 669 (8th Cir. 1989). "The Court must also take into

consideration the weight of the evidence in the record and apply a balancing test to evidence which is contradictory." Wilcutts

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v. Apfel, 143 F.3d 1134, 1136 (8th Cir. 1998) (citing Steadman v. Securities & Exchange Commission, 450 U.S. 91, 99 (1981)). Substantial evidence means "more than a mere scintilla. It

means such relevant evidence as a reasonable mind might accept as adequate to support a conclusion." Richardson v. Perales, 402

U.S. at 401; Jernigan v. Sullivan, 948 F.2d 1070, 1073 n. 5 (8th Cir. 1991). However, the substantial evidence standard

presupposes a zone of choice within which the decision makers can go either way, without interference by the courts. "[A]n

administrative decision is not subject to reversal merely because substantial evidence would have supported an opposite decision." Id.; Clarke v. Bowen, 843 F.2d 271, 272-73 (8th Cir. 1988). III. BURDEN OF PROOF AND SEQUENTIAL EVALUATION PROCESS An individual claiming disability benefits has the burden of proving he is unable to return to past relevant work by reason of 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. § 423(d)(1)(A). If the

plaintiff establishes that he is unable to return to past relevant work because of the disability, the burden of persuasion shifts to the Commissioner to establish that there is some other type of substantial gainful activity in the national economy that the plaintiff can perform. Nevland v. Apfel, 204 F.3d 853, 857

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(8th Cir. 2000); Brock v. Apfel, 118 F. Supp. 2d 974 (W.D. Mo. 2000). The Social Security Administration has promulgated detailed regulations setting out a sequential evaluation process to determine whether a claimant is disabled. codified at 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1501, et seq. These regulations are The five-step

sequential evaluation process used by the Commissioner is outlined in 20 C.F.R. § 404.1520 and is summarized as follows: 1. Is the claimant performing substantial gainful activity? Yes = not disabled. No = go to next step. 2. Does the claimant have a severe impairment or a combination of impairments which significantly limits his ability to do basic work activities? No = not disabled. Yes = go to next step. 3. Does the impairment meet or equal a listed impairment in Appendix 1? Yes = disabled. No = go to next step. 4. Does the impairment prevent the claimant from doing past relevant work? No = not disabled. Yes = go to next step where burden shifts to Com-

missioner.

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5. Does the impairment prevent the claimant from doing any other work? Yes = disabled. No = not disabled. IV. THE RECORD The record consists of the testimony of plaintiff; his girl friend, Tracy Anne Metz; and vocational expert Dr. Cathy Hodgson, in addition to documentary evidence admitted at the hearing. A. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS The record contains the following administrative reports: Earnings Record The record shows that plaintiff earned the following income from 1966 through 2007: Year 1966 1967 1968 1969 1970 1971 1972 1973 1974 1975 1976 1977 Income $ 312.50 575.00 2,328.11 4,736.51 3,554.33 4,084.25 2,985.00 5,410.00 6,345.00 7,025.00 6,020.30 11,348.45 5 Year 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 Income $22,105.00 3,612.00 8,367.00 18,876.00 0.00 861.76 9,611.17 22,548.69 19,469.19 20,254.81 28,405.45 32,057.59

1978 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 (Tr. at 57). Disability Report

10,800.00 4,800.00 11,600.00 16,000.00 16,600.00 12,300.00 5,200.00 2,386.00 7,769.00

1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007

16,095.53 84.32 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

In a Disability Report dated June 5, 2007, plaintiff reported that he cannot sit, stand, or walk for very long, and that the only time he gets relief from his pain is when he lies down (Tr. at 68). B. SUMMARY OF MEDICAL RECORDS On September 24, 2003, plaintiff was seen at the VA hospital (Tr. at 163-164, 168-169, 352-358). He denies any complaints. pain. "He states he is doing fine.

He has no complaints of any abdominal He did not get his x-rays

His back pain has been stable. He still smokes."

at last visit.

Plaintiff said he had no pain After a physical

and no feelings of depression or hopelessness.

exam, he was assessed with gastroesophageal reflux disease ("GERD") syndrome, stable. His global assessment of functioning

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was 90.1

He was advised of the benefits of regular exercise.

He

had lab work done and was told to come back in six months. On June 17, 2004, plaintiff was seen at the VA hospital (Tr. at 157-162, 346-351). "Auto mechanic. He is here. He smokes.

He complains of pain in the low back. couple of weeks." 10.

It has been going on for a

Plaintiff described his pain as a 10 out of

The pain had gotten worse on the left side of his body, and He had been

plaintiff said it hurt in his neck down to his leg.

experiencing the pain for less than one month, and the pain was aggravated by moving. limited. On exam, flexion of the lumbar spine was He was

Straight leg raising was limited to 50 degrees.

assessed with low back pain, probably musculoskeletal spasm, lumbago.2 Plaintiff was advised to "give rest to the back". The

provider talked to plaintiff about applying heat and cold, using distraction and relaxation, or massage therapy. He was told to

try cyclobenzaprine (muscle relaxer) and Ultram (narcotic-like pain reliever) and return in four to six weeks if his symptoms were not better. Plaintiff declined the opportunity to discuss

his smoking status and "declined smoking cessation at this time." A Global Assessment of Functioning of 81 to 90 means absent or minimal symptoms (e.g., mild anxiety before an exam), good functioning in all areas, interested and involved in a wide range of activities, socially effective, generally satisfied with life, no more than everyday problems or concerns (e.g., an occasional argument with family members).
2 1

Lumbago is an umbrella term for general lower back pain. 7

September 6, 2004, is plaintiff's alleged onset date. On November 3, 2004, plaintiff was seen at the VA hospital (Tr. at 152-157, 341-346). visit. "The patient is here for followup

Apparently, he had an appointment in March; I am not sure He has a chronic low back pain. He is feeling

why he is here. much better.

He has taken occasional medi[c]ations for GERD He wants to smoking [sic]. He will

syndrome. He still smokes. get nicotine patch." distress.

On exam plaintiff was alert and in no acute He

He reported no pain on this visit (0 out of 10).

reported no feelings of depression or hopelessness.

He had not

been bothered by lack of interest or loss of pleasure in doing things. He was assessed with nicotine use and chronic low back

pain. Plaintiff was counseled on aerobic, flexibility and endurance exercises and the importance of regular exercise. was told to stop smoking. December 31, 2004, is plaintiff's last insured date. On March 28, 2005, plaintiff was seen at the VA hospital (Tr. at 147-152, 335-340). "[K]nown history of gastroesophageal He

reflux disease, has some increasing aches and pains, may be getting in to fibromyalgia, he is also getting depressed. business is not doing well." His

Plaintiff described his pain as a 4

out of 10, constant, aggravated by nothing, and had been present for more than a year. He complained of being lethargic with

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generalized muscle aches.

An exam was performed.

Plaintiff was He was

assessed with depression, chronic nicotine use, and GERD.

told to stop smoking, try metoclopramide (treats heartburn), use amitriptyline (an antidepressant) at bedtime, have a psychiatry evaluation, and return in a month if his symptoms were not better. On April 19, 2005, plaintiff was scheduled to see a psychiatrist with the VA hospital but failed to show for the appointment (Tr. at 218, 289). On August 16, 2005, plaintiff was seen at the VA hospital complaining of back pain "for last 2 months" (Tr. at 146, 329, 332-333). "He had low back pain before, but it looks like he is He has more pain in the left

working on the car, now it's worse. sacroiliac area.

He states that sometimes it radiates down the He states that sometimes No pain at

leg in the front up to the knee. . . .

the pain is bad, especially when he walks around. night."

He rated his pain a 3 out of 10 and said it gets worse Plaintiff reported having one He was encouraged to Straight

if he sits in the wrong position.

to two drinks two to three times per week. quit smoking.

He was observed to have a normal gait.

leg raising was limited to 60 degrees. limited to 60 degrees.

Flexion of the spine was

He had some decreased pinprick sensation X-rays of the lumbosacral

over the L3 and L4 on the left side.

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spine were ordered, and plaintiff was given information about back exercises. radiculopathy. On August 19, 2005, plaintiff had x-rays of his lumbosacral spine (Tr. at 205, 266). The impression was early degenerative He was assessed with low back pain, rule out

arthritis and slight scoliosis (curvature of the spine). On September 28, 2005, plaintiff was seen at the VA Hospital complaining of knee and back pain (Tr. at 139-140, 327). described his pain as a 4 out of 10. normal gait. He

He was observed to have a

Plaintiff was encouraged to quit smoking.

On September 30, 2005, plaintiff was seen at the VA hospital for lab work (Tr. at 323). On November 8, 2005, Lester Bland, Psy.D., completed a psychiatric review technique (Tr. at 223-236). Dr. Bland found

that plaintiff's mental impairment, caused by depression and history of alcohol abuse, was not severe. He found that

plaintiff suffered from no restriction of activities of daily living; no difficulties in maintaining social functioning; mild difficulties in maintaining concentration, persistence, or pace; and had no episodes of decompensation. In support, Dr. Bland noted that plaintiff had not alleged disability based on a mental impairment, he was self-sufficient in personal care, did not need reminders, prepared meals, left

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home several times per day, drove, shopped, managed finances, watched television, read, visited with others, got along with others, and followed instructions. He noted that the medical

records show that plaintiff had a history of alcohol abuse and did not want to quit. He had a negative depression screen in His GAF in April 2003 He was

2002 along with continued alcohol abuse. was 90.

The first note of depression was in March 2005.

assessed with depression in August 2005 although he had no complaints of symptoms. On December 13, 2005, plaintiff had x-rays of his right elbow to rule out fracture or dislocation (Tr. at 265). was no evidence of acute bony change. tissue swelling. On May 4, 2006, plaintiff was seen at the VA hospital complaining of a history of black outs (Tr. at 311-315). He There

He was assessed with soft

reported that the day before he had been making coffee, felt flushed, and then woke up on the floor. three months earlier. The same thing happened "He

He reported his pain a 3 out of 10.

was seen in last December with complaint of blackout momentarily. Nobody did witness this. before 3 months. Also, he says that he has had blackouts

He did not take any medical care for that one.

He says it was just for a second and he did not know what happened. The patient is a chronic smoker and will refer to

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smoking cessation program.

Also, he says he takes two to three

drinks [per week] and he was advised not to take any." Plaintiff was referred to behavioral health for assistance with smoking cessation (Tr. at 288). CT of plaintiff's brain. On May 5, 2006, Carolyn Hampleman from the VA hospital was unable to reach plaintiff regarding his smoking cessation consult (Tr. at 288, 310). She left a message on his voice mail The doctor also ordered a

informing him of the smoking cessation tele-health program, individual counseling, and nicotine patches. same information to plaintiff. On May 25, 2006, plaintiff had a CT scan of his head due to complaints of blackouts (Tr. at 263-264). The result was normal. She also mailed the

On November 20, 2006, plaintiff was seen at the VA hospital complaining of knee and back pain (Tr. at 304-309). was alert, oriented, ambulatory, and in no distress. motion of both knees was within normal limits. Plaintiff Range of

An alcohol

screening test was positive as he reported consuming one to two drinks at a time four or more times per week. his pain a 3 out of 10. Plaintiff rated

He was assessed with history of GERD, His

chronic degenerative joint disease, and chronic back pain. medications were renewed.

The doctor ordered x-rays of both

knees and told plaintiff to come back in six months.

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On November 24, 2006, plaintiff had x-rays of his knees (Tr. at 262-263). He was assessed with early degenerative arthritis.

That same day, plaintiff was seen at the VA hospital for complaints of syncope, or near fainting (Tr. at 287, 301-302). Plaintiff reported smoking 1/2 pack of cigarettes per day and declined counseling on smoking cessation. He was given a Holter

monitor and told to return in three days for an EEG. On November 29, 2006, Ankineedu Kavuri, M.D., reviewed plaintiff's Holter monitor and determined that he had sinus rhythm, sinus tachycardia, and otherwise normal tracing (Tr. at 287). On December 6, 2006, plaintiff was seen at the VA hospital to get the results of his EEG (Tr. at 295-300). is not offering any new complaint. . . . "Otherwise, he

His 24-hour Holter

monitor reported sinus tachycardia, otherwise, normal Holter monitor. I do not have an EEG report, but patient says he was Plaintiff reported having no pain. Plaintiff was assessed with

told that the EEG was good."

He was observed with a normal gait.

history of GERD, chronic back pain, and degenerative joint disease. Plaintiff was told to stop taking his cyclobenzaprine

and to return as needed. About a half an hour later, according to the records, he was seen at the VA hospital for a follow up on chronic back pain,

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degenerative joint disease, and soft tissue injury to his elbow (Tr. at 317-318, 320-323). elbows. Plaintiff reported no pain in his The doctor He ordered an

His other pain was rated a 3 out of 10.

noted soft tissue swelling but without tenderness. x-ray of plaintiff's right elbow.

Plaintiff was advised that his He was told

triglycerides were high and that he should exercise.

to stop smoking and was given information on smoking cessation classes. He was told to follow up in six months.

On December 7, 2007, plaintiff saw Michael Ball, D.O., for back pain and generalized joint pain (Tr. at 393). "He is unable

to sit for any extended period of time greater than 30 minutes duration due to the pain he experiences in his low back. The

pain also radiates into both lower extremities and at times he has numbness and tingling in the feet bilaterally. The patient

complains of chronic neck pain and has limited motion in the cervical spine. He has had x-rays in the past [which] revealed

degenerative joint and disk disease of his neck and low back. The patient also has pain in his hips and knees with any extended standing greater than 30 minutes duration. The patient also

complains of pain in his left elbow and inability to fully extend the left upper extremity. He has weakness in his left arm and

frequents [sic] drops items from the left hand."

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On exam Dr. Ball observed that plaintiff's gait was normal, he was alert and oriented and responded appropriately, he was unable to heel and toe walk, he had limited forward bending of the lumbar spine at 30 degrees and side bending right and left at five degrees. He was unable to squat, he had paravertebral

muscle spasm throughout the entire lumbar spine, he had decreased strength in his lower extremities, he had decreased range of motion in all planes of movement of the cervical spine, decreased grip strength in his left upper extremity, reduced range of motion in the hip joints bilaterally, and crepitus [grinding sound] on passive range of motion in the knee joints bilaterally. Dr. Ball assessed generalized degenerative joint disease, hypertension, and acid reflux disease. That same day, Dr. Ball completed an Evaluation of Functional Capacity (Tr. at 395-396). He found that plaintiff

could lift 25 pounds occasionally and ten pounds frequently, could stand for three hours per day, could sit for three hours per day, could alternate sitting and standing for a total of four hours per day, would be moderately limited in his ability to concentrate due to pain, had a moderate limitation in handing, had a mild limitation in fingering or feeling, had a moderate limitation in reaching, had a substantial limitation in climbing,

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stooping, kneeling, crouching, and bending, and had various environmental restrictions. C. SUMMARY OF TESTIMONY During the December 13, 2007, hearing, plaintiff testified; his girl friend testified; and Dr. Cathy Hodgson, a vocational expert, testified at the request of the ALJ. 1. Plaintiff's testimony. Plaintiff lives in a house on one acre of land (Tr. at 423). He occasionally hires people to mow and weed his yard (Tr. at 423). He lives alone (Tr. at 435). His daughters come to his Plaintiff

house and help him with household chores (Tr. at 435). does some of his own laundry (Tr. at 435).

Plaintiff can barely

go up and down stairs, although his house is full of stairs (Tr. at 435-436, 437, 438). His elbows hurt when he tries to lift

anything, and he loses his grip on things (Tr. at 436). Plaintiff can occasionally lift five to ten pounds, although just moving his arms causes pain (Tr. at 436). Plaintiff can

sometimes hold onto work tools, but sometimes he just drops them (Tr. at 437). at 437). It had not happened very much lately, however (Tr.

If he kneels down, plaintiff cannot get back up without Whenever he

rolling over, and he can hardly squat (Tr. at 437). is standing, he is in pain (Tr. at 438). to 300 feet (Tr. at 439).

He can walk about 200

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Back in 2002, a doctor noted that plaintiff was drinking five to six beers a day; however, plaintiff said that was incorrect, that he was drinking one to two beers per day (Tr. at 425). In April 2003 and in March 2005, Dr. Reddy noted that

plaintiff was an auto mechanic and that business was not going all that well (Tr. at 425-426). He performed small tune ups, He jacked up the

brakes, etc., in his home garage (Tr. at 426).

car and sat on a stool with wheels, or he would bend over the engine to do things such as changing spark plugs (Tr. at 426). Plaintiff previously experienced seizures, but his doctor took him off a certain medication and he has not had any since (Tr. at 439). His last seizure was on May 25, 2006 (Tr. at 440).

Plaintiff was unable to work as of September 6, 2004, because at that time he would try to do something, hurt himself, and then lie around for two to three weeks recuperating (Tr. at 427). 433). Plaintiff's main complaint is his lower back pain (Tr. at The pain is present all the time (Tr. at 433). Plaintiff

takes medicine almost every day (Tr. at 434). does not cure the pain (Tr. at 434).

It helps some but

Plaintiff sleeps on the

couch for two to three hours before he wakes up in pain (Tr. at 434). Because he does not sleep much at night, he has to take

two naps during the day, each lasting two to three hours (Tr. at 434-435).

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Plaintiff drove for an hour and a half without stopping to get to the administrative hearing (Tr. at 423). Plaintiff's medications cause dry mouth, nervousness, and irritability (Tr. at 427). 2. Testimony of plaintiff's girl friend. At the time of the hearing, Ms. Claxton had known plaintiff for about eight months (Tr. at 441). Plaintiff cannot help her

with firewood, cannot help her fix her cars, and when she met him his home was a mess (Tr. at 441). Ms. Claxton helps plaintiff His parents and brother

with his household chores (Tr. at 441). also help him (Tr. at 441-442). 3. Vocational expert testimony.

Vocational expert Dr. Cathy Hodgson testified at the request of the Administrative Law Judge. Plaintiff's past relevant work

includes milk tanker driver performed at the medium exertional level (as described in plaintiff's written administrative materials) or the light level (as described during plaintiff's testimony), and a delivery driver, performed at the heavy exertional level but traditionally considered a medium semiskilled position (Tr. at 44). The first hypothetical incorporated the limitations as found by Dr. Ball, i.e., can lift 25 pounds occasionally and ten pounds frequently; stand for three hours per day, sit for three hours

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per day; would have difficulty with bilateral use of the hands; moderate limitation in handling, reaching, pushing, and pulling; mild limitation in fingering, feeling, and balancing; substantial limitation in climbing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, bending; should avoid concentrated exposure to humidity; and should avoid all exposure to hazards, machinery, and heights (Tr. at 444-445). The vocational expert testified that such a person could not do any of plaintiff's past relevant work or any other work (Tr. at 445-446). V. FINDINGS OF THE ALJ Administrative Law Judge L. W. Henry entered his opinion on February 11, 2008 (Tr. at 13-22). Step one. Plaintiff has not engaged in substantial gainful He worked as

activity since his alleged onset date (Tr. at 15).

a self-employed auto mechanic, but he did not report substantial income. Step two. Plaintiff has the following severe impairments:

gastroesophageal reflux disease and, since August 19, 2005, early degenerative joint disease of the lumbosacral spine (Tr. at 15). Plaintiff's early degenerative arthritis of his knees is nonsevere as are his depression and alcoholism (Tr. at 16). Step three. Plaintiff's impairments do not meet or equal a

listed impairment (Tr. at 17).

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Step four.

Plaintiff has the residual functional capacity Plaintiff

to perform the full range of light work (Tr. at 18).

is unable to perform his past relevant work (Tr. at 20). Step five. Prior to July 28, 2005, there were a significant

number of jobs in the national economy that plaintiff could have performed (Tr. at 20-21). Beginning on July 28, 2005,

plaintiff's age category changed and, by direct application of Medical-Vocational Rule 202.06,3 defendant became disabled on this date (Tr. at 21). Plaintiff was not under a disability at

any time through December 31, 2004, the date last insured (Tr. at 21). VI. CREDIBILITY OF PLAINTIFF Plaintiff argues that the ALJ erred in finding that plaintiff's testimony was not credible. A. CONSIDERATION OF RELEVANT FACTORS The credibility of a plaintiff's subjective testimony is primarily for the Commissioner to decide, not the courts. v. Bowen, 862 F.2d 176, 178 (8th Cir. 1988); 830 F.2d 878, 882 (8th Cir. 1987). Rautio

Benskin v. Bowen,

If there are inconsistencies

in the record as a whole, the ALJ may discount subjective

Where the maximum sustained work capability is light work and the claimant is 55 years of age or over with a high school education and no transferrable skills, the person is considered disabled. Appendix 2 to Subpart P of Part 404, Medical-Vocational Guidelines. 20

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complaints.

Gray v. Apfel, 192 F.3d 799, 803 (8th Cir. 1999); The ALJ,

McClees v. Shalala, 2 F.3d 301, 303 (8th Cir. 1993).

however, must make express credibility determinations and set forth the inconsistencies which led to his or her conclusions. Hall v. Chater, 62 F.3d 220, 223 (8th Cir. 1995); Robinson v. Sullivan, 956 F.2d 836, 839 (8th Cir. 1992). If an ALJ

explicitly discredits testimony and gives legally sufficient reasons for doing so, the court will defer to the ALJ's judgment unless it is not supported by substantial evidence on the record as a whole. Robinson v. Sullivan, 956 F.2d at 841.

In this case, I find that the ALJ's decision to discredit plaintiff's subjective complaints is supported by substantial evidence. Subjective complaints may not be evaluated solely on

the basis of objective medical evidence or personal observations by the ALJ. In determining credibility, consideration must be

given to all relevant factors, including plaintiff's prior work record and observations by third parties and treating and examining physicians relating to such matters as plaintiff's daily activities; the duration, frequency, and intensity of the symptoms; precipitating and aggravating factors; dosage, effectiveness, and side effects of medication; and functional restrictions. 1984). Polaski v. Heckler, 739 F.2d 1320, 1322 (8th Cir.

Social Security Ruling 96-7p encompasses the same factors

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as those enumerated in the Polaski opinion, and additionally states that the following factors should be considered: Treatment, other than medication, the individual receives or has received for relief of pain or other symptoms; and any measures other than treatment the individual uses or has used to relieve pain or other symptoms (e.g., lying flat on his or her back, standing for 15 to 20 minutes every hour, or sleeping on a board). The specific reasons listed by the ALJ for discrediting plaintiff's subjective complaints of disability are as follows: The clinical and objective findings herein are inconsistent with allegations of total debilitation. The claimant was diagnosed with degenerative joint disease as early as 2002, but reported that he was "doing fine" in September 2003. He alleged chronic back pain in 2004, but reported to his treating physician that he "felt much better" on November 3, 2004. No further treatment was provided until the claimant reported a significant worsening of his back pain in August 2005. The record is devoid of any evidence showing a significant degree of muscle atrophy, paravertebral muscle spasm, sensory or motor loss, reflex abnormality, gait disturbance, or reduced range of motion of the spine or joints, an indication that claimant continues to move about on a fairly regular basis. Moreover, there is no diagnostic evidence of nerve root compression or spinal stenosis to substantiate the claimant's complaints of debilitating pain. In fact, no x-ray or other studies of the spine were deemed necessary before August 2005. . . . Claimant's self-reported activities of daily living are inconsistent with such allegations of totally debilitating symptomatology. The claimant reported his activities included working as an auto mechanic in his home garage, and maintaining his own household. While it has not been established that his work was substantial gainful activity, it does indicate a capacity to perform light work. 22

. . . The weight of the evidence shows that the claimant's back pain was episodic until August 2005, and became chronic on or about that time. (Tr. at 19-20). Reviewing the Polaski factors, I note that plaintiff worked as a self-employed auto mechanic for several years without reporting the income from that business. The medical records

during 2005 note that plaintiff's business was not doing well (March 2005) and that he had been working on a car (August 2005). As the ALJ noted, plaintiff's daily activities are inconsistent with total disability. Plaintiff worked as an auto

mechanic, lived alone, and was able to take care of himself and his household. Plaintiff's argument that his working as a

mechanic is irrelevant because it did not amount to substantial gainful activity is not well founded. The ability to perform

work, although not at the substantial gainful activity level, is relevant in determining a claimant's credibility. Barnhart, 356 F.3d 926, 930 (8th Cir. 2004). The lack of frequent medical visits indicates that the duration, frequency, and intensity of plaintiff's symptoms were not as bad as alleged. During the year prior to plaintiff's Harris v.

alleged onset date, he saw the doctor on September 24, 2003, and then again on June 17, 2004. He alleges he became disabled on

September 6, 2004, but he did not seek medical attention between

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June 17, 2004, and November 3, 2004 -- almost five months. his November 3, 2004, appointment, he did not seek medical attention again for the next four and a half months.

After

On March

28, 2005, he indicated his business was not doing well, and he mentioned depression and lethargy for the first time. He was

told to see a psychiatrist, but he failed to show up for his psychiatric appointment the following month and never followed up on that referral. Plaintiff waited another five months before

seeking medical attention, and on that appointment (August 16, 2005) he reported back pain for the past two months. This would

have been June 2005 when his back pain began, just before plaintiff became disabled according to the ALJ. Plaintiff testified that his medications cause dry mouth, nervousness, and irritability. However, there is no mention of

adverse side effects in the medical records. No doctor ever placed any physical restrictions on plaintiff prior to July 28, 2005. In fact his treating physicians

routinely discussed the importance of exercise, including aerobic exercise, with plaintiff (Tr. at 146, 152-157, 163-169, 295-300, 329, 332-333, 341-346, 352-358). Plaintiff argues that the ALJ erroneously relied on plaintiff's attempt at self employment because "[t]he record shows . . . that this attempt at self-employed work ended in July

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2004, well before the Plaintiff's amended onset date of September 6, 2004, making such activity moot at best." Contrary to

plaintiff's argument, the medical records establish that he told his doctor that his business was not doing well in March 28, 2005, and on August 16, 2005, he hurt his back working on a car. Plaintiff also argues that the ALJ should have relied more on the statements of third parties. The record includes very

brief written statements by Stephen Wayne Souder and Tracy Metz, both dated December 2007 -- nearly two and a half years after the time period at issue here (Tr. at 133-134). Mr. Souder stated

that he had known plaintiff for 15 years and that plaintiff tried to start a car repair business in 2000 but because of his back and knees and subsequent depression his business did not work. There is nothing in the letter indicating when -- from 2000 when plaintiff started his business until December 2007 when the letter was written -- plaintiff became unable to perform the car repair business due to his impairments. is of little relevance. In addition, Ms. Metz testified at the hearing. In both her Therefore, this letter

written and oral testimony, Ms. Metz pointed out that she had known plaintiff since approximately April 2007. Because she did

not meet plaintiff until nearly two years after the time period at issue here, her testimony is irrelevant.

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Based on all of the above, I find that the substantial evidence in the record as a whole supports the ALJ's finding that plaintiff's symptoms were not as severe as alleged prior to July 28, 2005. Therefore, plaintiff's motion for summary judgment on

this basis will be denied. VII. RELIANCE ON FINDINGS OF DR. BALL Plaintiff argues that the ALJ erred in citing the opinion of Dr. Ball to support the ALJ's finding that plaintiff could do the full range of light work. The ALJ's opinion on this issue reads as follows: . . . The weight of the evidence shows that the claimant's back pain was episodic until August 2005, and became chronic on or about that time. Thus, a finding that the claimant was unable to perform light exertion before the date of onset found herein is not warranted. In making this determination, the Administrative Law Judge notes that Dr. Ball completed a Medical Source Statement on December 7, 2007, limiting the claimant to no more than light work activity on a sustained basis. While Dr. Ball is not truly a "treating physician", the claimant testified that he has examined the claimant several times over the years for employment physicals and has some familiarity with his medical condition. Dr. Ball's opinion is given great weight, especially in determining the claimant's residual functional capacity in and after August 2005, when his medical condition worsened. (Tr. at 20). Although the ALJ's language in the above-quoted paragraph is less than clear, the ALJ found that Dr. Ball's opinion supported a finding that plaintiff could do light work or less after August

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2005.

Because plaintiff was found disabled once he became of

advanced age, it makes no difference whether he could perform light work or even no work at all. Any finding that plaintiff

could perform no more than light work results in a finding that plaintiff is disabled as of his 55th birthday. The ALJ clearly gave great weight to the opinion of Dr. Ball as of the date of Dr. Ball's opinion. However, Dr. Ball's

examination of plaintiff and opinion both occurred more than two years after the time period at issue here. Therefore, Dr. Ball's

opinion is not relevant to whether plaintiff was disabled prior to July 28, 2005. Light work involves lifting no more than 20 pounds at a time with frequent lifting or carrying of objects weighing up to 10 pounds. Even though the weight lifted may be very little, a job is in this category when it requires a good deal of walking or standing, or when it involves sitting most of the time with some pushing and pulling of arm or leg controls. To be considered capable of performing a full or wide range of light work, you must have the ability to do substantially all of these activities. 20 C.F.R. § 404.1567(b). On June 17, 2004, the last time plaintiff saw a doctor before his alleged onset date, he complained of back pain for the past couple of weeks. He was given two prescriptions, told to

use heat, cold, distraction, relaxation, and massage therapy, and he was told to return in four to six weeks if his symptoms were not better. Plaintiff did not return to the doctor for another

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four and a half months.

Therefore, it can be inferred that his

symptoms did indeed improve during the time of his alleged onset date. Even during his June 17 appointment, no functional

restrictions were placed on plaintiff other than to "rest" his back with the anticipation that his symptoms would be resolved within four to six weeks. On November 3, 2004 -- after plaintiff's alleged onset date -- plaintiff returned to the doctor and said he was feeling much better. Plaintiff specifically said he had no pain, ranking his Plaintiff was counseled on aerobic,

pain a zero out of 10.

flexibility, and endurance exercises and the importance of regular exercise. A pain level of zero coupled with a

recommendation that plaintiff regularly perform aerobic, flexibility, and endurance exercises does not support a finding that plaintiff was disabled. Plaintiff had no further doctor

appointments until several months after his last insured date. Based on the above, I find that the substantial evidence in the record as a whole supports the ALJ's reliance on Dr. Ball's opinion for a time frame excluding the time period at issue here. I further find that the substantial evidence in the record as a whole supports the ALJ's finding that plaintiff was capable of performing the full range of light work at all times prior to his last insured date.

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VIII. CONCLUSIONS Based on all of the above, I find that the substantial evidence in the record as a whole supports the ALJ's finding that plaintiff was not disabled prior to July 28, 2005. is ORDERED that plaintiff's motion for summary judgment is denied. It is further Therefore, it

ORDERED that the decision of the Commissioner is affirmed.

/s/ Robert E. Larsen
ROBERT E. LARSEN United States Magistrate Judge Kansas City, Missouri September 29, 2009

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