The Veteran's service-connected lumbar disc disease with associated radiculopathy is currently rated at 20 percent, which is the maximum schedular rating available under Diagnostic Code 5242. The Board finds that a higher rating is not warranted as there is no evidence of unfavorable ankylosis or favorable ankylosis.
The deciding factor: The Veteran's lumbar spine disability does not meet the criteria for a higher evaluation based on unfavorable ankylosis, and his current 20 percent rating adequately reflects the severity of his service-connected low back disability.
- Claimed conditions
- lumbosacral degenerative disc disease, radiculopathy
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 20%
- Decision date
- June 29, 2012
- Citation
- 1222852
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 1222852.
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.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Veteran's appeal for a compensable disability rating for service-connected migraine headaches is remanded due to the need for further evaluation and consideration.
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The Veteran's claim for SMC based on loss of use of both lower extremities is being remanded due to a failure to obtain relevant private medical records. The AOJ will consider these records when readjudicating the claim.
- Denied
The Board found the reduction in disability evaluation from 40% to 20% was improper and void ab initio due to inadequate examination for reduction.
- Granted
The Board has granted service connection for neurological impairment of the right and left lower extremities, variously diagnosed as neuropathy and radiculopathy, which is secondary to the Veteran's service-connected back disability.
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