The Board granted an initial 40 percent rating for chronic lumbosacral strain with degenerative disk disease and left lower extremity peripheral neuropathy, and a separate 20 percent rating for right lower extremity peripheral neuropathy. The claims for increased ratings for the remaining conditions were denied.

The deciding factor: The Veteran's low back disability and associated bilateral lower extremity peripheral neuropathy are best represented as forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine 30 degrees or less, warranting an initial 40 percent rating. An initial 20 percent rating is warranted for right lower extremity peripheral neuropathy.

Claimed conditions

chronic lumbosacral strain with degenerative disk disease, left lower extremity peripheral neuropathy, right lower extremity peripheral neuropathy, residual of a left ankle fracture, heart condition, GERD

How they argued it

Direct service connection

Exposure basis

None

Rating assigned

None in this decision

Decision date

October 14, 2025

Citation

A25088092

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