Leroy Cox — ADJ931866

Applicant Leroy Cox, a cement truck driver, sustained a January 31, 2006 industrial injury to multiple body parts. The WCJ found 93% impairment after adjustments but ultimately found 100% permanent total disability based on applicant's vocational expert Roderick Stoneburner, who relied on orthopedic AME Dr. Contreras's restrictions plus applicant's pain complaints and opioid use. Defendant sought reconsideration, arguing the vocational opinion was not substantial because the expert did not consider work restrictions standing alone and the WCJ erred in calculating psychiatric apportionment under the AME. The Board granted reconsideration, finding the vocational evidence non-substantial because no medical opinion supported the pain/opioid preclusion analysis, Dr. Contreras was never asked to comment on vocational reporting, and significant dental restrictions from Dr. Schames were not addressed. The Board deferred a final decision pending further review and development of the record.