Service connection for sinusitis is granted.,From January 19, 2016 to June 27, 2016, a rating of 40 percent for status post lumbar spine surgery with degenerative arthritis and compression deformity at L4 is granted. From January 19, 2016, the Veteran's low back disorder approximates flexion to 30 degrees or less when considering functional loss.,From January 1, 2013 to June 27, 2016, an initial rating of 30 percent for migraine headaches is granted. From January 1, 2013, the criteria for an initial rating in excess of 30 percent for migraine headaches have not been met.,Service connection for left eye iritis is remanded.,Service connection for right upper extremity cubital tunnel syndrome is remanded.,Service connection for left upper extremity cubital syndrome is remanded.

The deciding factor: The Veteran's service treatment records reflect significant in-service treatment and complaints for sinusitis. The October 2012 VA examiner indicated the Veteran does not have chronic sinusitis, but there was a medical history of sinusitis.,The evidence supports a factually ascertainable increase in disability to 40 percent as early as January 19, 2016. This is based on the Veteran's credible report of severe and worsening symptoms, as well as the subsequent range of motion findings by the June 2016 VA examiner.,The Veteran reported headaches that cause a 'squeezing sensation on the head or center over the eyes' and requires medication for the disorder. The October 2012 VA examination indicated he experiences pain on both sides of his head, as well as sensitivity to light.,Service connection is granted for sinusitis based on current evidence showing it had its onset during service.,The Veteran's low back disability most closely approximates a 40 percent rating from January 19, 2016. The June 2016 VA examination indicated the Veteran has significant back pain with prolonged sitting and standing, even for short periods of time.,Service connection is granted for migraine headaches based on current evidence showing characteristic prostrating attacks averaging once a month over the last several months.

Claimed conditions

sinusitis, left eye iritis, right upper extremity cubital tunnel syndrome, left upper extremity cubital syndrome

How they argued it

Direct service connection

Exposure basis

None

Rating assigned

40%

Decision date

December 26, 2018

Citation

18160254

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 18160254.