Back / lumbar spine decisions — 2015

The Veteran's back disability and lower extremity radiculopathy were granted initial ratings of 10 percent for the period from April 22, 2009 to December 6, 2012. Effective December 6, 2012, a higher rating of 20 percent was assigned for the back disability and right and left lower extremity radiculopathy.

The Veteran's currently diagnosed degenerative disc disease of the back did not begin during, or for several years after, his active service and was not otherwise caused by his service. The Veteran's irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is also denied as there is no evidence that it began in service.

The Board has decided to remand the case for further development and an addendum medical opinion regarding the Veteran's low back disability.

The Board has remanded the case due to incomplete records and the need for additional examinations.

The Veteran's appeal was denied for service connection of an acquired psychiatric disorder, bilateral hearing loss, low back disorder, and rheumatoid arthritis. The Veteran also had his request to reopen previously denied claims for service connection for rheumatoid arthritis of the shoulders, knees, feet, elbows, hands, and neck denied.

The Veteran's lumbosacral strain is currently rated at 10 percent, but does not meet the criteria for a higher rating based on functional loss due to pain or other factors. The issues of service connection for bilateral hearing loss and tinnitus remain pending.

The Veteran is found to be in need of the regular aid and attendance of another person due to service-connected disabilities, and therefore qualifies for special monthly compensation based on that need.

The Veteran's clothing allowance for the year 2010 is granted due to his use of a back brace for service-connected degenerative disc disease. The issue regarding a skin ointment is dismissed as the appellant withdrew it.

The Veteran's bilateral wrist condition, diagnosed as CTS, is not service-connected.,There is no evidence of a current back disability related to the Veteran's active service.,The Veteran's COPD is not service-connected.

The Board denied the Veteran's claims of service connection for a dental or jaw disorder and a thoracolumbar spine disorder, finding that there was no evidence linking these conditions to her military service. The claim for compensation under 38 U.S.C.A. § 1151 for PTSD/Major Depressive Disorder is pending.

The Board has denied the Veteran's claims for service connection for a back disorder and bilateral knee disorders, finding that there is no evidence to support these conditions being related to his military service.