The Board granted a 40 percent disability rating for degenerative arthritis of the lumbar spine with herniated disc at L3-L5 and IVDS, denied ratings in excess of 10 percent for left ankle sprain and left knee patellofemoral pain syndrome, and granted earlier effective dates for service connection for certain conditions.

The deciding factor: The decision was based on the severity of the Veteran's symptoms and their impact on his daily life, as well as the evidence submitted by the Veteran.

Claimed conditions

Degenerative arthritis of the lumbar spine with herniated disc at L3-L5 and intervertebral disc syndrome (IVDS), Left ankle sprain, Left knee patellofemoral pain syndrome manifested by limitation of flexion, Left knee patellofemoral pain syndrome manifested by limitation of extension, Right lower extremity radiculopathy, Left lower extremity radiculopathy

How they argued it

Direct service connection

Exposure basis

None

Rating assigned

None in this decision

Decision date

October 16, 2025

Citation

A25089264

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