The Veteran's intervertebral disc syndrome (IVDS) with laminectomies and discectomies L4-5 with spinal stimulator placement is currently rated at 40 percent, which is the maximum rating available under VA guidelines. The Board found that there was no evidence of unfavorable ankylosis or functional equivalent of unfavorable ankylosis.
The deciding factor: The Veteran's symptoms did not meet the criteria for a higher evaluation due to lack of ankylosis and functional equivalent of unfavorable ankylosis.
- Claimed conditions
- intervertebral disc syndrome (IVDS), degenerative joint disease, degenerative disc disease, central stenosis
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 40%
- Decision date
- February 7, 2023
- Citation
- 23007736
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 23007736.
What this means for you
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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.
- Denied
The Board denied the Veteran's claim for service connection for a back condition, including degenerative disc disease and scoliosis, due to lack of current disability evidence.
- Denied
The Veteran's claim for an evaluation in excess of 40 percent for his lumbar spine disability has been denied. The Board found that the evidence did not meet the criteria for a higher rating, as there was no unfavorable ankylosis or incapacitating episodes of IVDS.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has determined that the VA examinations related to the Veteran's lower back condition and surgical scars are inadequate, necessitating a remand for further evaluation.
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