For the period prior to March 17, 2011, a rating in excess of 20 percent for herniated nucleus pulposus (HNP), L4-L5 and L5-S1, with degenerative changes and muscular low back strain is denied.,For the period from March 17, 2011 forward, a rating in excess of 40 percent for herniated nucleus pulposus (HNP), L4-L5 and L5-S1, with degenerative changes and muscular low back strain is denied.
The deciding factor: The Veteran's low back disability did not meet the schedular criteria for a rating in excess of 20 percent prior to March 17, 2011.,For the period from March 17, 2011 forward, the Veteran’s low back disability has been manifested by forward flexion to 20 degrees, but not by unfavorable ankylosis or incapacitating episodes of IVDS having a total duration of at least 6 weeks during the past 12 months.
- Claimed conditions
- Herniated nucleus pulposus (HNP), L4-L5 and L5-S1, Degenerative changes, Muscular low back strain
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- None in this decision
- Decision date
- May 17, 2018
- Citation
- 18103135
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 18103135.
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