The Veteran's initial rating for lumbar degenerative disc disease and IVDS was granted at a 20 percent level, effective prior to May 13, 2015. A separate 20 percent rating was also granted for left lower extremity sciatica.
The deciding factor: The evidence showed that the Veteran's back disability resulted in forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine greater than 30 degrees but less than 60 degrees, with incapacitating episodes having a total duration of at least 4 weeks but less than 6 weeks. The left lower extremity sciatica was also found to be moderate incomplete paralysis.
- Claimed conditions
- lumbar degenerative disc disease, intervertebral disc syndrome (IVDS), left sciatica
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 20%
- Decision date
- April 26, 2018
- Citation
- 1825359
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 1825359.
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.
- Dismissed
The Veteran's appeal for a higher rating for right foot disability status post Mitchell's bunionectomy is granted with an effective date of July 25, 2023.,The Veteran's appeal for a higher rating for left foot disability status post Mitchell's bunionectomy is dismissed as it does not meet the criteria for an earlier effective date.
- Granted
The Veteran's service-connected disabilities rendered him unable to secure and follow substantially gainful employment prior to August 14, 2023.
- Granted
The Veteran's service connection claims for degenerative disc disease, intervertebral disc syndrome, spinal stenosis, and bilateral lower extremity sciatica have been granted as they are related to his active duty service.
- Dismissed
The Veteran's appeal for an earlier effective date for service connection of intervertebral disc syndrome, traumatic arthritis of the spine with stenosis, and status-post spinal fusion is dismissed due to the Veteran's death.
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