The veteran's initial ratings for lumbar discogenic disease, left ankle disorder, and right lumbar radiculopathy were granted. The low back disability is currently asymptomatic during flare-ups but manifests with mild to moderate spasm of the paraspinous muscles, moderate limitation of motion (LOM), and decreased sensation in the right lower extremity. The left ankle disorder resolves when not flared up, manifesting with some swelling and moderate LOM. No higher ratings are warranted for these conditions.
The deciding factor: The veteran's low back disability does not meet or approximate the criteria for a higher rating due to its asymptomatic nature during flare-ups and mild to moderate symptoms that do not significantly affect his ability to function in daily activities.
- Claimed conditions
- lumbar discogenic disease, left ankle disorder
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 20%
- Decision date
- September 19, 2007
- Citation
- 0729521
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 0729521.
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
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