The Veteran's low back disability is rated at 40 percent, effective October 15, 2018. His PTSD with major depressive disorder is rated at 50 percent for purposes of accrued benefits.
The deciding factor: The evidence shows that the Veteran’s low back disability has been characterized by forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine less than 30 degrees and moderate symptoms for his left lower extremity radiculopathy, warranting a 40 percent rating. His PTSD with major depressive disorder is characterized by occupational and social impairment with reduced reliability and productivity.
- Claimed conditions
- Low back disorder (degenerative joint disease and annular tear of lumbar spine), Acquired psychiatric disorder (PTSD with major depressive disorder)
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 40%
- Decision date
- June 25, 2019
- Citation
- 19149165
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.
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- Remanded (sent back)
The Board remands the claim for a rating in excess of 70 percent for PTSD due to an inadequate medical opinion.
- Granted
The Board granted service connection for myasthenia gravis based on the Veteran's exposure to hazardous substances during his military service.
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