The Veteran's lumbar spine condition was rated at 20 percent prior to July 19, 2011. From that date forward, the rating has been increased to 40 percent for degenerative disc disease and intervertebral disc syndrome of the lumbar spine.
The deciding factor: The VA examiner found that from July 19, 2011, the Veteran's lumbar spine condition manifested with use of a back brace, constant pain, and restricted activity, warranting a higher rating under the General Rating Formula for Diseases and Injuries of the Spine.
- Claimed conditions
- Degenerative disc disease and intervertebral disc syndrome of the lumbar spine, Neuropathy of the medial plantar nerve of the right lower extremity
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 40%
- Decision date
- September 14, 2012
- Citation
- 1231707
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 1231707.
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 Board remands the claims for a higher disability rating for degenerative disc disease and intervertebral disc syndrome of the lumbar spine, as well as for degenerative arthritis of the right and left knees due to inadequate VA examinations.
- Granted
The Veteran's service-connected disabilities, including PTSD, asthma with sleep apnea, chronic kidney disease, and various musculoskeletal conditions, render him unable to perform daily activities without regular aid and attendance. The Board has determined that the criteria for SMC based on need for aid and attendance have been met.
- Granted
A rating of 40 percent for right lower extremity radiculopathy is granted, effective June 12, 2013.,Effective dates are granted for left and right lower extremity radiculopathy, both associated with degenerative disc disease and intervertebral disc syndrome of the lumbar spine status post L4-L5 diskectomy.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Veteran's appeal is being remanded for additional development, including new VA examinations to assess the current severity of his lumbar spine and left knee disabilities.
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