Radiculopathy & sciatica decisions — 2004

The Board has determined that further examination is needed to determine whether the veteran's service-connected disabilities cause loss of use of both feet or one hand and one foot, or causes him to be permanently bedridden or in need of regular aid and attendance.

The veteran's appeal is being remanded due to the need for additional development of evidence, including clarification of his military service dates and further examination of his claims.

The veteran's arachnoid cyst at T12 and L2 level with chronic low back pain and radiculopathy, right leg is rated as 20 percent disabling. The veteran's migraine headaches are currently rated as 30 percent disabling prior to March 5, 2001.

The Board has remanded the veteran's claims for increased ratings due to incomplete development of her medical records and failure to provide proper VCAA notice.

The Board found that the veteran's lumbosacral spine disability was manifested by severe recurring attacks prior to April 24, 1986. The claim for an increased rating is denied.

The veteran's appeal is being remanded for additional development due to procedural concerns.

The Board has ordered further development due to pending issues regarding the veteran's increased disability rating for cervical disc disease with stenosis and radiculopathy status post fusion and discectomy with residual scar. The case is being sent back to the RO for additional development of medical records.

The Board determined that the veteran's death was not caused by or a result of his service-connected disabilities, and denied all claims.

The Board has granted a 20 percent evaluation for cervical strain with headaches and cervical radiculopathy, effective from August 14, 2000. The veteran's claim regarding the effective date of this rating is also considered.

The Board has remanded the case due to inadequate VCAA notice and need for additional medical examination.

The veteran's appeal is being remanded for further development of his claim, including obtaining Social Security Administration records and treatment records from specific physicians.