The Veteran's service-connected thoracolumbar spine disc desiccation with posterior annular tears L4-5 and L5-S1 with intervertebral disc syndrome is being remanded for an additional VA examination to determine the current nature and severity of his disability.,The Veteran's service-connected radiculopathy right lower extremity is also being remanded for a VA examination to determine the current nature and severity of his disability.
The deciding factor: The Veteran testified that his service-connected back disability has worsened, including with increased pain during lawn work and bedrest. The Board finds this testimony sufficient to warrant an additional VA examination to assess the current severity of his spine disability.,The Veteran also testified that his right lower extremity radiculopathy is associated with his back disability. Given the connection between these disabilities, a remand for a VA examination to evaluate the extent of his right lower extremity radiculopathy is warranted.
- Claimed conditions
- {"condition_name":"Thoracolumbar spine disc desiccation with posterior annular tears L4-5 and L5-S1 with intervertebral disc syndrome"}, {"condition_name":"Radiculopathy right lower extremity"}, {"condition_name":"Scars, right foot due to sesamoid fracture"}, {"condition_name":"Right hip disability"}
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- None in this decision
- Decision date
- January 11, 2019
- Citation
- 19103019
What this means for you
A remand is not a loss. The Board sent the case back for more development — often a new exam or missing records — before making a final decision. Many remands later end in a grant, and the decision spells out exactly what the Board wanted to see.
What you can do next
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