The veteran's degenerative disc disease of the lumbar spine and associated sciatica have been rated at 20 percent since August 1, 2002, and increased to 40 percent effective December 22, 2005. The RO has granted all requested higher ratings.
The deciding factor: The veteran's degenerative disc disease of the lumbar spine was found to be manifested by pain and moderate limitation of motion since August 1, 2002, and severe limitation of motion since December 22, 2005. The associated sciatica has been rated at 10 percent in both lower extremities.
- Claimed conditions
- degenerative disc disease of the lumbar spine, sciatica of the right lower extremity, sciatica of the left lower extremity
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 40%
- Decision date
- September 25, 2006
- Citation
- 0630167
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 0630167.
What this means for you
A grant means the Board agreed the veteran was entitled to the benefit. Decisions like this show the kind of evidence and arguments that tend to succeed for claims like it.
What you can do next
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Granted
The Board granted an initial rating of 20 percent for the Veteran's sciatica of the left lower extremity, finding that the evidence supports moderate incomplete paralysis.
- Partly granted
The Board granted service connection for GERD, left wrist sprain, right knee strain, and degenerative disc disease of the lumbar spine. The claim for an increased rating for generalized anxiety disorder with depressive disorder was denied.
- Dismissed
The appeal for service connection for cervical strain with degenerative disease and degenerative disc disease of the lumbar spine was dismissed as it was not timely filed.
- Granted
The Veteran's claim for special monthly compensation (SMC) based on the need for aid and attendance is granted, as he requires regular assistance with dressing, keeping himself clean and presentable, and attending to his bodily needs due to service-connected disabilities.
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.