The Veteran's claim for an increased rating for chronic back pain syndrome was granted, with a current disability rating of 40 percent. The issue of entitlement to SMC based on aid and attendance due to wheelchair use was also granted.
The deciding factor: The VA determined that the Veteran's service-connected chronic low back pain syndrome warranted a 40 percent disability rating, which is the maximum schedular rating available for limitation of motion of the spine. The Veteran's need for SMC based on his wheelchair use was also established.
- Claimed conditions
- chronic low back pain syndrome
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 40%
- Decision date
- June 1, 2017
- Citation
- 1719285
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 1719285.
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 claim for an increased disability rating for his service-connected chronic low back pain syndrome is being remanded due to the need for AOJ review of additional VA generated evidence.
- Granted
The Board has determined that the Veteran's chronic low back pain syndrome is service-connected, as it began during his active duty and continues to this day.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has remanded the case for additional development, including obtaining medical records and scheduling VA examinations. The Veteran's claims for increased ratings and reopening of a claim are to be reconsidered.
- Granted
The veteran's service-connected disabilities (chronic low back pain syndrome, major depression, and tinnitus) render him unable to secure or follow a substantially gainful occupation.
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