Radiculopathy & sciatica decisions — 2018

The Veteran's lumbar spine disability and associated radiculopathies were evaluated under the General Rating Formula for Diseases and Injuries of the Spine. The Board found that her symptoms did not meet or approximate criteria for a higher rating based on functional loss due to pain, as there was no objective evidence of pain on active range of motion testing or following repetitive motion testing.

The Veteran's claims for increased ratings for his lumbar spine disabilities have been denied. The evidence does not support the assignment of any higher disability ratings.

The Veteran is entitled to a total disability rating based on individual unemployability (TDIU) prior to December 7, 2012 due to his service-connected disabilities.

The Veteran's appeal is being remanded for additional development, including a new VA examination to assess the severity of his service-connected back disability and sciatica.

The Veteran's claim for a higher rating for his degenerative disc disease of the lumbar spine, status post lumbar fusion was denied as there is no evidence showing forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine to 30 degrees or less, or favorable ankylosis of the entire thoracolumbar spine.,The Veteran's claim for a higher rating for his degenerative joint disease of the right knee was denied as there is no evidence showing flexion limited to 30 degrees, or extension limited to 15 degrees; or ankylosis.

The Board finds that the Veteran's bilateral shoulder disability, cervical radiculitis, and bilateral upper radiculopathy are not related to active service or any incident of service. The claims for service connection are therefore denied.

The Board has determined that the Veteran is not entitled to service connection for his claimed cervical spine disorders and radiculopathy, as there is no medical evidence establishing a link between these conditions and his active service.

The Board has determined that the Veteran's left leg sciatic nerve disorder is attributable to his service-connected low back disability and therefore grants service connection for this condition.

The Board has granted service connection for bilateral knee disabilities, including osteoarthritis of the right knee and residuals of a total left knee replacement. The issues of increased ratings for lumbar spine DDD and lower extremity radiculopathy have been dismissed due to withdrawal by the Veteran.

The Veteran's claim for an increased rating for right lower extremity radiculopathy was denied, but he was granted TDIU on extra-schedular basis. The effective date is not specified.