The veteran's service-connected low back strain with osteophyte and narrowing of the L5-S1 disc space is productive of severe impairment, but does not meet the criteria for a higher evaluation.
The deciding factor: The VA examinations showed significant limitation of motion (50% of normal) and mild sensory impairment in the lower extremities. The veteran's symptoms were described as incapacitating during flare-ups, which are included in the current rating percentage.
- Claimed conditions
- Low back strain with osteophyte and narrowing at L5-S1 disc space
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 40%
- Decision date
- June 11, 2001
- Citation
- 0115959
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 0115959.
What this means for you
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What you can do next
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- Granted
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