HUGH B. SCOTT, Magistrate Judge.
Before the Court are the parties' respective motions for judgment on the pleadings (Docket Nos. 13 and 15).
This is an action brought pursuant to 42 U.S.C. § 405(g) to review the final determination of the Commissioner of Social Security that plaintiff is not disabled and, therefore, is not entitled to disability insurance benefits and/or Supplemental Security Income benefits.
The plaintiff, John P. Wheeler ("Wheeler" or "plaintiff"), filed an application for disability insurance benefits on October 5, 2004 claiming that he had become disabled on January 1, 2000. (R. 336A). That application was denied. The plaintiff appeared before an Administrative Law Judge ("ALJ"), who considered the case
Plaintiff subsequently commenced this action (Docket No. 1). He alleges that he became disabled on October 5, 2004
Wheeler was born in 1952 and has a high school education. (R. 477). He claims he was disabled for the period in question due to pain in his back due to a herniation; pain in his neck, knees, and chest; an enlarged heart muscle; feeling lightheaded; depression; hypertension; and bilateral carpal tunnel syndrome. (R. 477-78, 481). His past relevant work was as an auto mechanic which required him to lift an average of 100 pounds at a time. (R. 479).
The record reflects that the plaintiff has had problems with his back going back to 2002. An x-ray dated April 25, 2002 revealed degenerative disc space narrowing at L5/S1, as well as mild C4/5, C5/6 and C6/7 spondylosis including disc space narrowing, and bilateral C6/7 intervertabral foramen narrowing secondary to uncovertebral joint spurring. (R. 236-37). A CT of his cervical spine on February 4, 2003, showed left paracentral and left lateral recess bony spur formation at C3-4, right paracentral and lateral recess disc herniation into the central region, with mild to moderate spinal stenosis. (R. 232).
Wheeler was involved in a motor vehicle accident on July 19, 2003. (R. 194). Upon examination on August 15, 2003, he was experiencing neck pain, low back pain, left shoulder pain, knee pain and chest discomfort. The neck pain radiated to his left shoulder. He declined physical therapy and asked for a note allowing him to return to work. (R. 194). An x-ray taken on August 15, 2003 revealed peritendinitis calcaria in his right shoulder with calcifications in the area of the supraspinatus tendon; mild osteoarthritis of the left acromioclavicular joint; and changes in the left shoulder suggestive of degeneration of the rotator cuff tendon. (R. 229). An x-ray of the plaintiff's cervical spine taken on July 22, 2003 again revealed spondylosis predominantly at C6/7 with mild bilateral foraminal stenosis. (R. 231).
On December 31, 2003, Wheeler was seen by Dr. Ronald Boersma with respect to chest pains. A resting cardiogram showed a sinus rhythm "with perhaps a small Delta wave in the frontal plane and V5-V6." (R. 126). A stress test was terminated after 7 minutes because Wheller "developed a significant ST depression in the inferior and lateral precordial leads which at peak effort was in the 5mm range inferiorly and 2-3 mm in the lateral precordial leads." Dr. Boersma stated that the test "provokes an ischemic ST/T vector change in the inferior and lateral precordial leads with no clinical angina pectoris symptomatlolgy." (R. 126). The test was not conclusive as to whether the result was ischemic mediated or a false positive. Dr. Boersma stated that a nuclear scan was pending and concluded that Wheeler should be limited to "sedentary work for age." (R. 126).
On January 29, 2004, Wheeler was taken to Mercy Hospital by ambulance at the direction of Dr. Michael Kane, his treating physician, after complaining of chest pains during an office vist with Dr. Kane. (R. 132). Upon examination by Dr. Deolindo Ocampos, Wheeler was found to be suffering from atypical chest pain, hypertension, gastroesophageal reflux disease and anxiety. An EKG performed on Wheeler at that time was suggestive of ischemia and his work performance was "rather low." A coronary angiogram was scheduled (R. 133). On January 30, 2004, a cardiac catheterization performed by Dr. Nadeem Haq. revealed normal coronary anatomy and an ejection fraction of 60 percent. (R. 138).
The plaintiff was seen by Dr. Michael Landi on February 18, 2004, for a neurological consultation due to continued neck and back pain exacerbated by the 2003 car accident. (R. 155-56). Dr. Landi stated that x-rays reflected cervical spondylosis predomniantly at C6/7 and C7/T1, and a suggestion of cervical disc herniations at C3-4 and C5-6. (R. 158). Dr. Landi also reviewd an EMG nerve conduction study conducted in 2002 and stated that the results demonstrate that Wheeler suffers from carpel tunnel syndrom "more evolved on the left than on the right." (R. 158).
The plaintiff was also examined by Dr. John A. Moscato, an orthopedic surgeon, on February 19, 2004, based upon complaints of left knee pain. (R. 152-53). On examination, Dr. Moscato observed that the plaintiff's knees were normal except that the left knee demonstrated mild point tenderness over the medial collateral ligament without instability. Dr. Moscato concluded that Plaintiff was functioning well and instructed him to do knee exercises and use heat and massage. (R. 153). From an orthopaedic standpoint, Dr. Moscato opined that Plaintiff may return to work as a maintenance man. (R. 153).
Plaintiff was examined by Dr. Ocampos, again on February 24, 2004 (R. 242-43). Plaintiff complained of an aching pain in the lower sternal region. (R. 242). Dr. Ocampos reviewed Plaintiff's past test results and concluded that the plaintiff was "somewhat reassured" and that his symptoms were atypical but that cardiological studies failed to demonstrate significant coronary artery disease. (R. 242-43). The plaintiff was seen by Dr. Kane on July 22, 2004, again complaining of chest pain and neck pain. (R. 176). Dr. Kane advised him that his past tests relating to his cardiac function were within normal limits. (R. 177).
On December 9, 2004, the plaintiff was psychiatrically evaluated by Thomas Ryan, Ph.D., a consultative examiner for the State agency. (R. 250-53). At the examination, Wheeler complained of feeling depressed, but reported no past psychiatric hospitalizations or treatment. (R. 250-51). Dr. Ryan observed that the plaintiff was able to follow and understand simple directions and instructions, perform simple tasks independently, and maintain concentration and attention as well as a regular schedule, but may have some difficulty with complex tasks. Wheeler's insight was found to be "poor" and his judgement to be only "fair." (R. 252). Dr. Ryan concluded that the results of his evaluation "were consistent with psychiatric problems which may somewhat interfere with his ability to function on a daily basis." Dr. Ryan diagnosed the plaintiff as suffering from a "depressive disorder, NOS, mild". (R. 252).
On December 9, 2004, Wheeler was also evaluated by Fenwei Meng, M.D., a consultative physician for the State agency. (R. 254-58). The plaintiff complained of pain in his neck, lower back, leg, and chest. He also complained of carpal tunnel syndrome. (R. 254). On examination, Dr. Meng found that the plaintiff's gait and stance were normal; he was able to squat and walk on heels and toes without difficulty; he was able to rise from a chair without difficulty; his cervical spine flexion was full; the lumbar spine showed full flexion, extension, lateral flexion, and full rotary movement bilaterally; straight leg raising was negative bilaterally; he had a full range of motion of the upper extremities, hips, and ankles; near full range of motion of the knees with mild pain. (R. 256-257). According to Dr. Meng, a lumbosacral spine x-ray showed slight narrowing of the disc space at L5-S1 and a left knee x-ray was normal.(R. 258). Dr. Meng diagnosed (1) status post motor vehicle accident with pain in the neck, back, and knees, (2) carpal tunnel syndrome, (3) left elbow tendonitis, and (4) chest pain (noncardiac). (R. 257). Dr. Meng concluded that the plaintiff's upper extremity had minimal limitation with dexterity due to carpal tunnel syndrome; and that the plaintiff had minimal limitation with heavy lifting, pushing, and reaching, bending, extension, and turning his head to the side. (R. 257).
In a letter dated March 21, 2005, the plaintiff's treating physician, Dr. Kane, opined that Wheeler "has difficulty doing any job that requires repetitive lifting, bending, twisting, standing or repetitive hand motions, secondary to carpal tunnel syndrome and degenerative disc disease of the neck." (R. 305). Dr. Kane further opined that the plaintiff was not helped by traditional pain medications or physical therapy. Dr. Kane concluded that Wheeler "likely has a permanent disability of a marked degree" and recommended he follow up with Dr. Landi, a neurosurgeon. (R. 305).
An April 2005 x-ray of the lumbar spine revealed mild spondylitic spurring and mild degenerative joint disease in the sacroiliac joint. (R. 327). Wheeler was again examined by Dr. Kane on September 8, 2005. (R. 318). Dr. Kane stated that the plaintiff's asthma was mild and persistent and recommended Albuterol. He also advised Wheeler to continue taking Mobic for osteoarthritis and neck pain. (R. 318). Wheeler next saw Dr. Kane on December 15, 2005. (R. 316-17). At that time, Wheeler did not complain of chest pain, palpitations, anxiety, or depression. (R. 316). Dr. Kane diagnosed osteoarthritis, dyslipidemia, asthma and concluded that the plaintiff was a "well adult."(R. 317).
The plaintiff saw Dr. Kane next on October 9, 2006. At that time, Wheeler stated that he had not experienced any regular chest pain and no exertional chest pain. (R. 313). Dr. Kane noted that the plaintiff's osteoarthritis was controlled as was his reflux; that the plaintiff's strength was full and equal and his gait was smooth and coordinated. Dr. Kane noted Plaintiff had an abnormal stress test, gave the plaintiff a prescription for nitroglycerin and told him to go directly to the emergency room if he had any severe chest pain. (R. 313). In a letter dated October 16, 2006, Dr. Ocampus advised Dr. Kane that a recent stress echocardiographic study of the plaintiff yielded "abnormal" results. Dr. Ocampus stated that he recommended another coronary angiogram, but that the plaintiff was reluctant to undergo another angiogram because of a "bad experience" with his prior angiogram. Dr. Ocampus ordered further cardiolite stress exercise tests and pulmonary function tests. (R. 308). A stress test with ECG conducted on November 3, 2006 revealed no evidence of ischemia, exercise to 10 METS and 98% maximum predicted heart rate with no chest pain, and normal post-stress left ventricular function with an ejection fraction of 74%. (R. 310-11).
Wheeler returned to see Dr. Kane on June 25, 2007 for refill of his medications. (R. 417-18). Plaintiff complained of palpitations, heartburn and arthritis, but denied limitations of movement and muscle pain. (R. 418). Dr. Kane cleared plaintiff for proposed surgery to remove a tooth on August 18, 2007. (R. 421-22). The plaintiff saw Dr. Kane on December 18, 2007 for another "routine" visit. (R. 424). Plaintiff complained of bilateral foot achiness. Dr. Kane noted that plaintiff had just been diagnosed as having diabetes and that he was compliant with his diet plan. (R. 424). On March 26, 2008, Wheeler was seen by Dr. Kane for a follow-up relating to his diabetes and hypertension. (R. 427). Dr. Kane found that Wheeler's diabetes and hypertension were well controlled. and that the plaintiff denied chest pain, edema, fatigue, palpitations, and syncope. (R. 427-28). The plaintiff saw Dr. Kane again on July 29, 2008. At that time Wheeler told Dr. Kane that he was feeling well and was taking his medication as prescribed. (R. 431). His diabetes was well-controlled and the plaintiff denied any bone or joint pain. (R. 432). The plaintiff returned to see Dr. Kane on October 13, 2008, for a cough and congestion. (R. 435). After examining the plaintiff, Dr. Kane concluded he had an upper respiratory infection and prescribed Zithromax. (R. 436). On December 4, 2008, Wheeler complained to Dr. Kane of right knee pain. (R. 441). Examination of the right knee revealed no edema and no tenderness. The plaintiff walked with a coordinated gait without assistance. (R. 442). His right knee was normal to inspection and palpation other than a little crepitus felt. He had no instability, bilaterally and muscle strength and tone were full bilaterally. Both knees had a full range of motion. (R. 442). Dr. Kane referred Plaintiff to Dr. Moscato. A right knee x-ray ordered by Dr. Moscato on December 4, 2008, revealed no acute fracture or dislocation, no significant joint effusion, minimal bone spur at the tibial spine, and tiny opacification projects to the lateral anterior aspect of the knee. (R. 467).
On December 13, 2008, Dr. Kane completed a Physical Residual Functional Capacity questionnaire. (R. 469-73). Dr. Kane stated that Plaintiff had cervical spondylosis, spinal stenosis, osteoarthritis of the knees, and degenerative disc disease of the lumbar spine as well as chronic pain in the neck, back, knee and shoulder. (R. 469). He asserted that the plaintiff had decreased range of motion and arthritic changes in his hands; that on the plaintiff had "to on occasion take tylenol with codeine (on top of meloxicam) that sometimes makes him drowsy." (R. 469). Dr. Kane opined that Plaintiff frequently had pain that was severe enough to interfere with his attention and concentration, but that he was capable of performing a low stress job. (R. 470). According to Dr. Kane, Wheeler was able to sit for 30 minutes and stand for 30 minutes at one time before he needed to change positions. Dr. Kane believed that plaintiff was able to sit for at least six hours and stand/walk for about two hours in an eight-hour workday. (R. 471). He opined that it would be helpful if the plaintiff could change positions at will. The plaintiff could rarely carry ten pounds or less; but could never carry 20 pounds or more. Wheeler could never climb ladders and could rarely look down, turn his head left or right or look up. (R. 472). The plaintiff did not have significant limitations with reaching, handling, or fingering and was expected to miss work about three days per month due to his impairment or treatment. Dr. Kane also asserted that cold aggravated the plaintiff's condition and that his education may limit his ability to work. (R. 473).
At the supplemental administrative hearing, the ALJ obtained testimony from Timothy Janikowski, a vocational expert at Plaintiff's supplemental hearing in 2009. (R. 411, 413). The vocational expert was present at Plaintiff's hearing and reviewed the vocational evidence prior to the hearing. (R. 483-85). Janikowski classified Wheeler's past work as an auto mechanic as being of medium-to-heavy in exertional nature, but that the testimony indicated that it was performed by the plaintiff "at a heavy exertion." (R. 485). The ALJ asked the vocational expert to assume a hypothetical individual who can lift or carry, push or pull 20 pounds occasionally, ten pounds frequently, can sit for two out of eight hours per day, and stand or walk for six hours in an eight hour day. The ALJ added that the individual had "vocational limitations in the ability to bend, climb, stoop, squat, kneel and crawl," and "vocational limitations in reaching in all directions and in handling". (R. 485-86.) Janikowski testified that Wheeler could not perform his past relevant work. (R. 486). However, Janikowski testified that pursuant to the hypothetical proffered by the ALJ, and assuming the individual is closely approaching advanced age, the individual would be able to work as an office helper, an information clerk, and as a parking lot attendant (R. 488-89). Modifying the hypothetical, the ALJ asked the vocational expert to fully credit the plaintiff's testimony concerning the pain and limitations he experienced. (R. 489). Janikowski testified that with those limitations, an individual would not be able to perform the three jobs previously identified. (R. 489). Upon cross-examination, Janikowski testified that if the individual missed more than 12 days per year [as Dr. Kane opined would be the case] it would be grounds for being fired. (R. 490). In addition, if the hypothetical included a limitation in which the individual was precluded from turning his neck from side to side, Janikowski stated that this limitation would be "problematic" but that he could not determine whether the individual's work production would be so compromised that it would prevent employment. (R. 492).
The only issue to be determined by this Court is whether the ALJ's decision that the plaintiff was not under a disability is supported by substantial evidence.
For purposes of both Social Security Insurance and disability insurance benefits, a person is disabled when he is unable "to engage in any substantial gainful activity by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment which can be expected to result in death or which has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months." 42 U.S.C. §§ 423(d)(1)(A) & 1382c(a)(3)(A).
Such a disability will be found to exist only if an individual's "physical or mental impairment or impairments are of such severity that [he or she] is not only unable to do [his or her] previous work but cannot, considering [his or her] age, education, and work experience, engage in any other kind of substantial gainful work which exists in the national economy. . . ." 42 U.S.C. §§ 423(d)(2)(A) & 1382c(a)(3)(B).
The plaintiff bears the initial burden of showing that his impairment prevents him from returning to his previous type of employment.
In order to determine whether the plaintiff is suffering from a disability, the ALJ must employ a five-step inquiry:
20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1520 & 416.920;
In order to determine whether an admitted impairment prevents a claimant from performing his past work, the ALJ is required to review the plaintiff's residual functional capacity and the physical and mental demands of the work he has done in the past. 20 C.F.R. §§ 404.1520(e) & 416.920(e). When the plaintiff's impairment is a mental one, special "care must be taken to obtain a precise description of the particular job duties which are likely to produce tension and anxiety, e.g. speed, precision, complexity of tasks, independent judgments, working with other people, etc., in order to determine if the claimant's mental impairment is compatible with the performance of such work."
In the instant case, the ALJ determined that the plaintiff suffered from the following severe impairments: neck pain, low back pain, and bilateral carpal tunnel syndrome. (R. 383). The ALJ also found that the plaintiff suffered from the following non-severe impairments: depressive disorder, chest pain, diabetes mellitus. (R. 383). The ALJ determined that these impairments did not meet the listings set forth in 20 C.F.R. Part 404, Subpart P, Appendix 1. (R. 384). The ALJ found that Wheeler could perform "light work" as defined in 20 C.F.R. 416.967(b). The ALJ determined that the plaintiff could not perform his past relevant work. Wheeler was 52 years old on October 5, 2004, the alleged onset date of his disability. Under the applicable regulations, a 52 year old individual is considered "closely approaching advanced age." On May 8, 2007, the plaintiff became 55 years old and became classified as being an individual of "advanced age" on that date. 20 C.F.R. 416.963. The ALJ determined that prior to May 8, 2007, the plaintiff retained the residual functional capacity to perform jobs in the national economy, specifically: an office helper, an information clerk, and a parking lot attendant. (R. 388). Beginning and subsequent to May 8, 2007, as an individual of "advanced age," the ALJ determined that Wheeler was not capable of performing a significant number of jobs in the national economy. (R. 388-89).
The plaintiff argues that the ALJ erred in finding that he retained the residual functional capacity to perform work between October 5, 2004 and May 7, 2007. The plaintiff asserts: (1) that the ALJ's determination that he could perform light work during that period is not supported by substantial evidence in the record; (2) that the ALJ failed to properly assess the plaintiff's credibility; and (3) that the hypothetical question posed by the ALJ to the vocational expert did not consider the full extent of the plaintiff's impairments.
The plaintiff argues that the ALJ failed to provide a function by function assessment of Wheeler's residual functional capacity as required under Social Security Regulation ("SSR") 96-8, and also failed to properly consider the assessment made by the plaintiff's treating physician, Dr. Kane.
Pursuant to that regulation, an ALJ's assessment of the claimant's RFC must include a function-by-function analysis of the claimant's functional limitations or restrictions and an assessment of the claimant's work-related abilities on a function-by-function basis. With regard to physical limitations, this means the ALJ must make a function by function assessment of the claimant's ability to sit, stand, walk, lift, carry, push, pull, reach, handle, stoop, or crouch. 20 C.F.R. § 404.1513(c)(1); §§ 404.1569a(a), 416.969a(a);
Here, in "Finding of Fact and Conclusion of Law" number 5, the ALJ determined that the plaintiff possessed "the residual functional capacity to perform light work . . . except can occasionally bend, climb, stoop, squat, kneel and crawl; occasionally reach in all direction with both hands; and occasionally handle (perform gross manipulations) with both hands." (R. 384). This statement is set forth in conclusory form and does not address these capacities in relation to the medical evidence in the record. The ALJ does not make any specific assessment of Wheeler's ability to sit, stand, or walk. With respect to the plaintiff's ability to lift, the ALJ noted that the plaintiff's testified that he could lift 20 pounds without a problem (R. 385), but did not analyze this testimony in light of the medical evidence and opinion in the record. The record in this case reflects that the plaintiff's ability to sit, stand, walk and lift are impacted to some degree by his various impairments. The ALJ erred in failing to individually assess these capacities prior to making a determination as to Wheeler's residual functional capacity.
Also, the ALJ noted Dr. Kane's March 31, 2005 opinion that Wheeler "likely has a permanent disability of a marked degree" which was based upon Dr. Kane's assessment that the plaintiff had "difficulty doing any job that requires repetitive lifting, bending, twisting, standing or repetitive hand motions secondary to carpal tunnel syndrome and degenerative disc disease of the cervical spine." (R. 305). Notwithstanding, the ALJ stated that Dr. Kane's opinion in this regard was "given little weight because of the objective clinical evidence and other vocational factors, including age, education and past relevant work prior to May 8, 2007." (R. 386). The ALJ does not specify what clinical evidence in the record contradicts Dr. Kane's March 31, 2005 assessment. Moreover, in making his residual functional capacity assessment the ALJ completely failed to discuss Dr. Kane's December 13, 2008 residual functional capacity assessment. At that time, Dr. Kane opined that Wheeler suffered from chronic back, neck, knee and shoulder pain; that physical examination showed a decreased range of motion and arthritic changes in the plaintiff's hands; that the plaintiff occasionally takes Tylenol with codeine in addition to meloxicam which would make him drowsy; that these impairments would frequently interfere with the plaintiff's attention and concentration needed to perform even simple work; that the plaintiff could sit only up to 30 minutes at one time; could stand only 30 minutes at one time; could sit approximately 6 hours in an 8-hour work day; stand only 2 hours in an 8-hour work day; could rarely pick up 10 pounds; could never pick up 20 pounds; and would miss about three days per month due to his impairments or treatment. Dr. Kane did find that "if a job without manual labor was available with somewhat flexible hours, he might be able to work." (R. 470-72). Although this residual functional capacity was not completed within the period at issue (between October 5, 2004 and May 7, 2007), the assessment suggests that Wheeler had been followed by Dr. Kane since 2002 and that the impairment discussed were chronic in nature. This residual functional capacity assessment is not inconsistent with Dr. Kane's December 31, 2005 opinion regarding Wheeler's capacity.
The ALJ's residual functional capacity determination also failed to take into consideration the opinion of the state's consulting psychologist, Dr. Ryan, who opined that although the plaintiff could follow and understand simple instructions, he would have difficulty with complex tasks; his insight was poor and his judgement was fair; concluding that Wheeler suffered from a "depressive disorder" and "psychiatric problems which may somewhat interfere with his ability to function on a daily basis.: (R. 252).
Based upon this record, the ALJ's residual functional capacity assessment is not supported by the record. This matter should be remanded for further administrative proceedings so that the ALJ can make a function-by-function assessment of the plaintiff residual functional capacity. The ALJ should also consider the opinion of Dr. Ryan, and reconsider Dr. Kane's opinions as stated in the December 31, 2005 letter and December 13, 2008 assessment in making a residual functional capacity assessment.
The plaintiff also argues that the ALJ failed to properly assess the plaintiff's credibility as to the pain and limitations caused by his impairments.
An ALJ "is required to take the claimant's reports of pain and other limitations into account, 20 C.F.R. § 416.929," however, he or she is "not require[d] to accept the claimant's subjective complaints without question,"
In the instant matter, in discussing the plaintiff's credibility the ALJ stated:
(R. 385).
The record reflects that the plaintiff testified that he does "some laundry;" he can drive a car; he can bathe and dress himself; he could lift 20 pounds; walk one block; sit for 1 hour; and stand for 45 minutes. (R. 480) Wheeler also testified that he does not do any yard work; he has problems sleeping because he experiences chest pain and shoulder pain; he has problems with his arms and hands; he cannot reach over his head with this arms; he could not push or pull or squat without a problem; he could not climb without a problem; cold weather bothers him; he has a stabbing pain in his knee, back and neck; he takes Tylenol for pain; and that Dr. Kane advised him to avoid twisting or bending. (R. 480-81). In addition, the plaintiff testified that he was scheduled to see a specialist about his knee; and that his elbow was bothering him to the extent that "picking up a glass of pop to drink can make it hurt." (R. 482).
As noted above, the ALJ found the plaintiff "generally credible" but "not to the extent alleged." (R. 385). However, the sole basis proffered for this determination by the ALJ is the conclusion that Wheeler's "allegations of disability are inconsistent with his activities of daily living." However, the ALJ makes no attempt to explain how any of the plaintiff's daily living activities impact the credibility of the plaintiff's testimony regarding his limitations. Moreover, the fact that the plaintiff can perform the daily activities described in his testimony does not support a conclusion that the plaintiff can perform substantial gainful activity as required to function in a job setting. See
Finally, the plaintiff argues that the ALJ erred in relying upon the testimony of the vocational expert in this case because the hypothetical question posed to the expert did not adequately address the full range of the plaintiff's limitations.
A vocational expert's testimony is only useful if it addresses whether the particular claimant, with his limitations and capabilities, can realistically perform a particular job.
Because, as discussed above, the ALJ failed to take into consideration all of the plaintiff's limitations when making his determination of Wheeler's residual functional capacity, the ALJ's hypothetical failed to account for all of the plaintiff's limitations. See
For the foregoing reasons, this Court recommends that the decision of the Commissioner be VACATED and this matter be REMANDED for further administrative proceedings consistent with the above.
Pursuant to 28 U.S.C. §636(b)(1), it is hereby ordered that this Report & Recommendation be filed with the Clerk of the Court and that the Clerk shall send a copy of the Report & Recommendation to all parties.
Please also note that the District Court, on de novo review, will ordinarily refuse to consider arguments, case law and/or evidentiary material which could have been, but was not, presented to the Magistrate Judge in the first instance. See
Finally, the parties are reminded that, pursuant to W.D.N.Y. Local Rule 72.3(a)(3), "written objections shall specifically identify the portions of the proposed findings and recommendations to which objection is made and the basis for such objection and shall be supported by legal authority."
So Ordered.
