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
- Not verified here — check the original 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. Read the original VA decision (opens in a new tab) using citation 18103135.
What this means for you
A final Board denial may be appealed to the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims, generally within 120 days of the Board mailing date. A Supplemental Claim with new and relevant evidence is a separate option. Another Higher-Level Review of the Board decision is not available. Check your own notice: this historical decision does not set your deadline.
What you can do next
Use your own notice and decision stage. A remanded issue is not a final court-appealable denial. VA review guidance and CAVC filing instructions (U.S. federal; reviewed October 7, 2026).
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