The Veteran's lumbar degenerative changes with IVDS and radiculopathy of the femoral nerves were not found to warrant a disability evaluation in excess of 10 percent. The evidence did not show sufficient impairment for higher ratings.
The deciding factor: The Veteran’s range of motion was within normal limits, and there was no ankylosis or severe muscle spasm resulting in abnormal gait or spinal contour.
- Claimed conditions
- lumbar degenerative changes with IVDS, rheumatoid arthritis (implied by radiculopathy)
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- None in this decision
- Decision date
- January 24, 2018
- Citation
- 1804528
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 1804528.
What this means for you
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Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Veteran's thoracolumbar spine strain with degenerative disc disease and joint disease is rated at 40 percent, which does not meet the criteria for a higher rating. The Board has remanded this issue due to conflicting medical opinions regarding whether the condition warrants an increased evaluation. For his TDIU claim since May 18, 2011, the Veteran meets the requirements as he is unable to secure or follow substantially gainful employment due to service-connected disabilities.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has determined that there are new and material issues related to the Veteran's claims for increased ratings, propriety of a ratings reduction, and TDIU. The VA must obtain any outstanding treatment records and Social Security Administration (SSA) records before these matters can be further adjudicated.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Veteran's back condition and radiculopathy of the lower extremities are not rated higher than their current levels, with some issues remanded for further evaluation.
- Denied
The Veteran's claims for service connection and increased ratings were denied. The Board found no evidence of diabetes mellitus being incurred in or aggravated by service, and the cervical spine and lumbar spine disabilities did not meet the criteria for higher ratings.
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