The Veteran's mechanical low back strain, patellofemoral pain syndrome of the right knee, and right hip piriformis syndrome are all rated at their maximum allowable levels.
The deciding factor: The medical evidence does not support a higher rating for any of the conditions as they do not meet the criteria for ankylosis or incapacitating episodes that would warrant a higher evaluation under the applicable diagnostic codes.
- Claimed conditions
- Mechanical low back strain
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 20%
- Decision date
- June 19, 2018
- Citation
- 18111716
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 18111716.
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.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has decided to remand the Veteran's claims for additional development due to inadequate VA examinations. The case will be returned to the AOJ for further action.
- Denied
The Veteran's claim for TDIU was denied as her service-connected disabilities do not render her unable to secure and follow a substantially gainful occupation.
- Granted
The Veteran's low back disability, characterized by limited flexion to 30 degrees during flare-ups, warrants a 40 percent initial rating from March 5, 2004.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Veteran's appeal is remanded due to the need for a new examination and updated VA treatment records.
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