The Board granted initial ratings of 40 percent for lumbar spine disorder, 70 percent for major depressive disorder, and 40 percent for left lower extremity radiculopathy. TDIU and SMC based on housebound status were also granted.
The deciding factor: The Veteran's symptoms more nearly approximated favorable ankylosis or a rating of 40 percent for the lumbar spine disorder, and the criteria for higher ratings were not met due to the absence of unfavorable ankylosis. The major depressive disorder was productive of occupational and social impairment with deficiencies in most areas, warranting a 70 percent rating.
- Claimed conditions
- Lumbar spine disorder, Major depressive disorder, Left lower extremity radiculopathy (sciatic nerve)
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- None in this decision
- Decision date
- December 30, 2025
- Citation
- A25110861
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