The VA has determined that the veteran's service-connected herniated nucleus pulposus at L4 to L5, post-laminectomy and fusion, results in severe disability but does not meet the criteria for a higher evaluation.
The deciding factor: The examination findings did not support a more severe rating based on symptoms such as persistent sciatic neuropathy or pronounced neurologic findings.
- Claimed conditions
- Herniated nucleus pulposus at L4 to L5, Lumbar spinal fusion
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 40%
- Decision date
- February 23, 2000
- Citation
- 0004705
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. Search VA.gov for the original decision (opens in a new tab) using citation 0004705.
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
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- Denied
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- Granted
The Veteran's claim for service connection for PTSD is granted as the evidence shows a current diagnosis of PTSD, an in-service stressor, and a medical link between the two.
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