The Veteran's herniated nucleus pulposus and radiculopathy of the lower extremities have been granted increased ratings, with the herniated nucleus pulposus receiving a rating of 40 percent effective August 26, 2009.
The deciding factor: The VA examinations consistently showed significant symptoms including pain, weakness, numbness, and decreased sensation in the Veteran's lower extremities, warranting the highest available rating for his conditions.
- Claimed conditions
- herniated nucleus pulposus, radiculopathy of the right lower extremity, radiculopathy of the left lower extremity
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 40%
- Decision date
- June 20, 2013
- Citation
- 1319880
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 1319880.
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.
- Denied
The Board denied the Veteran's claim for a total disability rating based on individual unemployability (TDIU) due to service-connected disabilities, finding that his physical limitations could be accommodated by sedentary employment.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has denied service connection for radiculopathy of the left lower extremity and remanded the claim for adjustment disorder. The Veteran's radiculopathy is not shown to be related to his military service, while his adjustment disorder may be related to civilian life.
- Granted
The Veteran's need for the regular aid and attendance of another person was determined due to his service-connected disabilities, leading to a grant of special monthly compensation (SMC) based on the need for aid and attendance for accrued benefits purposes.
- Dismissed
The Board has dismissed all service connection claims and rating determinations due to the Veteran's withdrawal of his appeal.
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