The Veteran's claim for increased ratings for various spinal and nerve conditions has been granted, with specific ratings assigned. The claims are subject to the laws and regulations governing the award of monetary benefits.,A new rating decision grants a 20 percent initial rating for chronic lumbar strain with degenerative disc disease and disc bulges, osteoarthropathy and lumbar osteoarthritis from April 4, 2015 to November 21, 2023. The Veteran's condition is characterized by forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine greater than 30 degrees but not greater than 60 degrees.
The deciding factor: The evidence shows that the Veteran's symptoms have been consistent with a diagnosis of chronic lumbar strain, and the current rating reflects this.
- Claimed conditions
- Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic Lumbar Strain with Degenerative Disc Disease and Disc Bulges, Osteoarthropathy and Lumbar Osteoarthritis, Cervical Strain with Degenerative Disc Disease and Degenerative Arthritis, Right Lower Extremity Radiculopathy, Left Lower Extremity Radiculopathy, Left Upper Extremity Radiculopathy, Septoplasty Residuals
- How they argued it
- Reopened with new and material evidence
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 20%
- Decision date
- March 11, 2024
- Citation
- 24011440
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 24011440.
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.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has decided to remand the Veteran's claim of service connection for chronic fatigue syndrome due to conflicting medical evidence regarding the potential diagnosis. The case will be returned to the AOJ for further review and consideration.
- Granted
The Veteran's bilateral lower extremity radiculopathy has been granted a 30 percent disability rating since November 29, 2021.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Veteran's claims for higher ratings for right and left lower extremity radiculopathy are being remanded due to the need for a new VA examination to assess the current severity of his condition, without considering the ameliorative effects of any medication he uses.
- Granted
The Veteran's PTSD and associated conditions are granted effective from November 15, 2024.
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