The Board granted a 20 percent evaluation for degenerative disc disease of the thoracolumbar spine, effective from November 27, 2012. The Veteran's left L4 radiculopathy is separately evaluated as moderate incomplete paralysis of the sciatic nerve.
The deciding factor: The evidence showed that the Veteran's degenerative disc disease did not meet criteria for higher evaluations based on ankylosis or incapacitating episodes, but his left L4 radiculopathy warranted a separate evaluation.
- Claimed conditions
- Degenerative disc disease of the thoracolumbar spine
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating
- Not verified here — check the original decision
- Decision date
- July 24, 2014
- Citation
- 1433067
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. Read the original VA decision (opens in a new tab) using citation 1433067.
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).
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Whole decision: Granted
The Veteran's back disability is rated at 40 percent prior to January 13, 2022. Effective March 18, 2020, the Veteran is granted TDIU.
- Whole decision: Remanded (sent back)
The Board has determined that new and relevant evidence has been received for the Veteran's claims of service connection for degenerative disc disease of the thoracolumbar spine and obstructive sleep apnea. As a result, these claims are being remanded to allow for further review.
- Whole decision: Granted
The Veteran is granted entitlement to Chapter 33 educational assistance benefits at the 100 percent rate due to his service-connected back disability and discharge from active duty.
- Whole decision: Remanded (sent back)
The Board has denied the Veteran's claim for an initial rating in excess of 20 percent for his lumbar spine disability. The Court granted a JMPR, which required the Board to address pain on passive range of motion and nonweight-bearing testing. The case is now remanded due to inadequate examination documentation.
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