Citation Nr: 18156236
Decision Date: 12/07/18	Archive Date: 12/07/18

DOCKET NO. 16-48 586
DATE:	December 7, 2018
REMANDED
Service connection for a low back disorder.
REASONS FOR REMAND
The Veteran claims that she injured her back lifting/carrying a gurney during INACDUTRA in March 1985. The service treatment records (STRs) note that she sprained her back while acting as a litter bearer (carrying a simulated patient) in March 1985 in the line of duty while serving on INACDUTRA. STRs from October 1985 indicate that she was undergoing physical therapy for her back. 
The Veteran filed a claim for service connection for low back pain in April 1995. April 1995 X-ray studies revealed lumbosacral strain but offer no medical opinion as to a connection with service. In February 2016, she was diagnosed with spondylosis with radiculopathy and left sided lateral recess nerve impingement.
Under the circumstances, a remand is required in order to obtain a medical opinion regarding the etiology of the Veteran’s low back disorder.
The matter is REMANDED for the following actions:
1. Schedule the Veteran for an examination to determine the nature and etiology of her low back disorder. The claims file, to include a copy of this remand, should be made available to, and reviewed by, the VA examiner. All indicated tests and studies should be completed.
The examiner is asked to provide a medical opinion regarding whether it is at least as likely as not (50 percent or greater probability) that the current low back disorder is related to the injury in March 1985. A complete rationale for all stated opinions must be provided.
2. Then, readjudicate the issue based upon a full review of all evidence, including evidence added to the claims file after the September 2016 SOC was issued. If any benefit sought is not granted, the Veteran and her attorney should be provided with a supplemental SOC. An appropriate period of time should be allowed for response before the case is returned to the Board.

 
 L. HOWELL
Veterans Law Judge
Board of Veterans’ Appeals
ATTORNEY FOR THE BOARD	E. Redman, Counsel