The VA denied an increased evaluation for the veteran's service-connected herniated nucleus pulposus at L4-5, finding that his condition is manifested by some tenderness and pain with moderate limitation of motion.
The deciding factor: The VA found that the veteran's symptoms most closely approximated a moderate disability with recurring attacks, but did not meet the criteria for a higher evaluation due to severe disability or other factors.
- Claimed conditions
- herniated nucleus pulposus at L4-5
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 20%
- Decision date
- February 23, 2000
- Citation
- 0004643
This is a plain-language summary generated by AI from a public Board of Veterans’ Appeals decision. It can contain errors — always verify against the original. Look up the original decision on VA.gov (opens in a new tab) using citation 0004643.
What this means for you
A denial is a starting point, not the end of the road. You can see why this claim fell short — and, if you are still inside the one-year window, the appeal lanes that may remain open to you.
What you can do next
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Veteran's claims for an initial rating in excess of 50 percent for depressive disorder with anxious distress and entitlement to a total disability rating based on individual unemployability (TDIU) due to service-connected disabilities are being remanded due to pre-decisional duty to assist errors. The AOJ is instructed to obtain the Veteran's vocational rehabilitation folder, as well as a VA retrospective medical opinion addressing his ability to secure and follow substantially gainful employment during the appeal period.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Veteran's appeal is being remanded due to the need for additional development of his VA medical records.
- Denied
The Board found no evidence to support the veteran's claim that his current low back disability is related to service, and denied the claim.
- Granted
The veteran's right distal clavicle residuals and hemorrhoids were evaluated, with the initial ratings for both conditions being increased.
Free starter guide for your own claim
Reading this because you were denied or under-rated? Get the plain-English next steps — your appeal options, the deadline that protects you, and how appeals like yours turn out. One email, no spam.
We will only use this to send the guide. No spam, unsubscribe any time. We never sell your information.
We are not the VA. Veterans’ Rights is an independent resource built for veterans. We are not the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, not part of the government, and not endorsed by any government agency.
This is general information, not legal advice. For advice about your own situation, talk to a VA-accredited representative — many help for free.