The Veteran's status post herniated nucleus pulposus with spondylosis has been rated at 20 percent since September 16, 2008. The Board found that the disability did not meet or approximate criteria for a higher rating as it was manifested by forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine greater than 30 degrees but not greater than 60 degrees.
The deciding factor: The Veteran's lumbar spine had forward flexion to no less than 40 degrees, even when considering his reports of pain and functional loss (to include during flare-ups). There was no evidence of ankylosis or incapacitating episodes. The Board found that the disability did not meet criteria for a higher rating as it did not approximate criteria for a higher rating under any applicable diagnostic code.
- Claimed conditions
- status post herniated nucleus pulposus with spondylosis
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 20%
- Decision date
- August 22, 2017
- Citation
- 1734500
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 1734500.
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