The Veteran's back disability was rated at 20 percent prior to May 17, 2016 and after April 1, 2017. Effective May 17, 2016, the Veteran is entitled to a 40 percent rating for his service-connected lumbosacral strain. The Veteran's gastritis condition was rated at 20 percent prior to May 17, 2016 and after April 1, 2017.
The deciding factor: The VA examination conducted on May 17, 2016 demonstrated forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine between 5 degrees and 70 degrees, with similar reductions for other motions. This evidence warranted a 40 percent rating from that date.
- Claimed conditions
- Chronic lumbosacral strain, Hypertrophic gastritis with helicobacter pylori
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 40%
- Decision date
- September 26, 2017
- Citation
- 1742406
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 1742406.
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.
- Granted
The Veteran's service-connected lumbar spine and bilateral lower extremity radiculopathy disabilities prevented him from securing or following substantially gainful employment as of May 24, 2010.
- Granted
The Veteran is granted special monthly compensation (SMC) based on the need for regular aid and attendance, effective December 8, 2025.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board remands the claims for further development and to obtain an adequate examination.
- Denied
The Veteran's claim for an initial rating in excess of 20 percent for chronic lumbosacral strain is denied. Separate ratings for radiculopathy affecting the sciatic nerve in both lower extremities are granted.
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