The Veteran's sciatica of the left and right lower extremities were rated at 10 percent prior to November 14, 2014. From that date forward, they have been rated at 20 percent. The appeal is remanded for further evaluation.
The deciding factor: The evidence does not show a factually ascertainable increase in the one-year period prior to November 14, 2014, which would more nearly approximate moderate incomplete paralysis of either lower extremity.
- Claimed conditions
- {"condition_name":"Sciatica of the Left Lower Extremity","severity_level":"mild incomplete paralysis"}, {"condition_name":"Sciatica of the Right Lower Extremity","severity_level":"mild incomplete paralysis"}
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- None in this decision
- Decision date
- January 16, 2020
- Citation
- 20003675
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
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Granted
The Board granted service connection for obstructive sleep apnea, effective from the date of the February 2025 rating decision.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board remands the claim for a medical examination to determine if the Veteran's current neck strain is related to his in-service activities.
- 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.
We are not the VA. Veterans’ Rights is an independent resource built for veterans. We are not the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, not part of the government, and not endorsed by any government agency.
This is general information, not legal advice. For advice about your own situation, talk to a VA-accredited representative — many help for free.