The Veteran's claim for a higher rating for lumbar strain, left upper extremity neuropathy (ulnar nerve), and right upper extremity neuropathy (ulnar nerve) was denied. However, the Veteran received an initial rating of 20 percent for radiculopathy of the left lower extremity (femoral nerve).
The deciding factor: The VA examiner found that the Veteran's lumbar spine symptoms did not warrant a higher than 10 percent rating due to forward flexion being at least 70 degrees, which is within the range for a 10 percent rating.
- Claimed conditions
- Lumbar strain, Left upper extremity neuropathy (ulnar nerve), Right upper extremity neuropathy (ulnar nerve), Radiculopathy, left lower extremity (femoral nerve)
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 20%
- Decision date
- December 9, 2024
- Citation
- A24081650
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 A24081650.
What this means for you
A denial is a starting point, not the end of the road. You can see why this claim fell short — and, if you are still inside the one-year window, the appeal lanes that may remain open to you.
What you can do next
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Granted
The Board has granted effective dates of July 10, 2024 for service connection for PTSD, lumbar strain, and left lower extremity radiculopathy.
- Granted
The Veteran's service-connected lumbar spine disability and other disabilities have been granted, including a TDIU based on his inability to secure or follow substantially gainful employment due to these conditions.
- Granted
Service connection for PTSD, to include depression is granted.,Service connection for blisters of bilateral feet is denied.,Service connection for cervical strain is denied.,Service connection for headaches is denied.,Service connection for right shoulder rotator cuff injury is denied.,Service connection for chest injury and lumbar strain are remanded.
- Granted
The Veteran's service-connected disabilities, including her lumbar spine disability and migraine headaches, have caused her to require regular aid and attendance. SMC based on the need for aid and attendance is granted.
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