Adan Santiago — ADJ11574921

Applicant Adan Santiago, a sushi chef, fell at work on 9/26/2018 and injured his left upper extremity, with a disputed diagnosis of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). PQME Robert Stone, D.C., diagnosed CRPS, agreeing with treating physicians Dr. Aptekar and Dr. Abaci and rejecting the contrary consult opinion of Dr. Navani. Defendant petitioned for reconsideration arguing that Dr. Stone's reports were not substantial medical evidence, that CRPS was outside his expertise, and that the treating physicians' records lacked evidence of physical examination. The WCAB adopted the WCJ's report and denied reconsideration, finding Dr. Stone's opinion constituted substantial medical evidence predicated on reasonable medical probability and based on adequate examination and history. The Board found that physical examinations did in fact occur, as documented in summaries within Dr. Stone's PQME reports.