The VA has granted a 20 percent evaluation for the veteran's post-operative residuals of a herniated nucleus pulposis, L5-S1 with radiculopathy extending to the left lower extremity.
The deciding factor: The medical evidence showed that the veteran had pain and limitation of motion in his lumbar spine, but no ankylosis or severe neurological symptoms. The range of motion was within normal limits for a thoracolumbar spine, except for slight diminished sensation in the S1 distribution.
- Claimed conditions
- post-operative residuals of a herniated nucleus pulposis, L5-S1 with radiculopathy extending to the left lower extremity
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating
- Not verified here — check the original decision
- Decision date
- December 11, 2007
- Citation
- 0738878
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 0738878.
What this means for you
A grant means the Board allowed the benefit or issue identified in this decision. Review the original order: other issues in the same appeal may have a different outcome, and this decision does not predict another claim.
What you can do next
Use your own notice and decision stage. A remanded issue is not a final court-appealable denial. VA review guidance and CAVC filing instructions (U.S. federal; reviewed October 7, 2026).
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