The Board denied the Veteran's claims for increased ratings for various radiculopathies and granted an initial 30 percent rating for cervical spine intervertebral disc syndrome, spondylolisthesis and residual status post cervical spine fusion with hardware, as well as a TDIU.

The deciding factor: The Board found that the evidence did not support separate ratings for radiculopathies of the lower and upper extremities prior to March 1, 2023. However, it granted higher ratings based on the severity of the cervical spine disability and the Veteran's inability to secure and follow a substantially gainful occupation.

Claimed conditions

Left lower extremity radiculopathy, sciatic nerve, Right lower extremity radiculopathy, sciatic nerve, Left lower extremity radiculopathy, femoral nerve, Right lower extremity radiculopathy, femoral nerve, Left upper extremity radiculopathy, all radicular groups, Right upper extremity radiculopathy, all radicular groups, Cervical spine intervertebral disc syndrome, spondylolisthesis and residual status post cervical spine fusion with hardware, Degenerative arthritis, degenerative disc disease, intervertebral disc syndrome with residuals of pain, decreased range of motion, weakness, status post multiple thoracolumbar surgeries with hardware

How they argued it

Direct service connection

Exposure basis

None

Rating assigned

None in this decision

Decision date

February 27, 2025

Citation

A25017868

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