The Veteran's lumbar spine disability is currently evaluated as 20 percent disabling, and his radiculopathy of the left and right lower extremities are each rated at 20 percent prior to February 8, 2017, and 40 percent thereafter.,The Veteran does not meet the schedular criteria for an increased evaluation for his lumbar spine disability or radiculopathy. The evidence shows no more than subjective complaints of pain without objective findings of limitation in motion or ankylosis.
The deciding factor: The Veteran's lumbar spine disability and radiculopathy do not meet the schedular criteria for a higher evaluation, as there is no evidence of unfavorable ankylosis, forward flexion limited to less than 30 degrees, or incapacitating episodes.
- Claimed conditions
- Degenerative Arthritis of Lumbar Spine, Radiculopathy of Left Lower Extremity, Radiculopathy of Right Lower Extremity
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 20%
- Decision date
- August 7, 2017
- Citation
- 1731791
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 1731791.
What this means for you
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What you can do next
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Granted
The Board has granted service connection for PTSD with adjustment disorder and generalized anxiety disorder, effective May 23, 2025. Prior to this date, the Veteran's claim was denied due to insufficient evidence of an in-service stressor.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has remanded the Veteran's claims for increased ratings for his lumbar spine disability and TDIU due to procedural errors in the duty to assist.
- Dismissed
The Veteran's appeals for effective dates prior to March 2, 2021, have been dismissed as the appellant (via his authorized representative) has requested withdrawal of these claims.
- Granted
The Veteran's initial 50% rating for migraine headaches is granted, and an increased 30% rating for right knee limitation of flexion from December 8, 2017 is also granted. Initial ratings of 40% and 20% are assigned for radiculopathy of the right lower extremity and left lower extremity respectively.
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