The Veteran's sensory deficits of the sciatic nerve in both lower extremities are currently rated as 20 percent disabling, which is the maximum rating available under VA regulations. The Board finds that a higher rating is not warranted based on the evidence of record.,The Veteran's left shoulder dislocation and degenerative arthritis of the lumbar spine (L5/S1) are also currently rated as 20 percent disabling, with no indication of any other service-connected conditions or exposure basis.
The deciding factor: The Veteran’s sensory deficits of the sciatic nerve in both lower extremities have been evaluated under Diagnostic Code 8520, which assigns a maximum rating of 20 percent for moderate incomplete paralysis. The evidence does not support a finding that his disability warrants a higher evaluation.
- Claimed conditions
- Sensory deficit of the sciatic nerve, left lower extremity, Sensory deficit of the sciatic nerve, right lower extremity, Left shoulder dislocation, Degenerative arthritis of the lumbar spine (L5/S1)
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 20%
- Decision date
- April 21, 2021
- Citation
- 21024001
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 21024001.
What this means for you
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What you can do next
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Veteran's bilateral shoulder disabilities have been rated based on their current manifestations, and the Board has remanded for further development.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has remanded the claims of entitlement to higher initial ratings for right and left shoulder dislocations due to inadequate VA examinations. The Veteran is seeking increased disability ratings.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has remanded the Veteran's claims for service connection for right and left shoulder disabilities due to inconsistencies in the medical opinions provided.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has remanded the cases due to inadequate examination reports and the need for additional information regarding functional loss during flare-ups.
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