Citation Nr: 20003785 Decision Date: 01/15/20 Archive Date: 01/15/20 DOCKET NO. 18-45 253 DATE: January 15, 2020 REMANDED An evaluation in excess of 20 percent for cervical invertebral disc syndrome (hereinafter, cervical spine disability) is remanded. An evaluation in excess of 20 percent for evaluation of lumbar spondylosis, L4-L5, L5-S1, with degenerative disc disease (hereinafter, lumbar spine disability) is remanded. A total disability rating based on individual unemployability (TDIU) is remanded. REASONS FOR REMAND The Veteran served in the United States Army with active duty from July 1975 to July 1979, from December 1990 to April 1991, and from July 2005 to July 2008. This matter comes before the Board of Veterans’ Appeals (Board) on appeal from an August 2013 rating decision. Increased Rating and TDIU The Veteran was last afforded a VA examination in February 2013, more than six years ago. The Board finds that a new examination is necessary to address the current severity of the Veteran’s cervical and lumbar spine conditions and to access whether the disability prevents him from securing or following a substantially gainful occupation. The matters are REMANDED for the following action: 1. Obtain any relevant private and/or VA treatment records not currently associated with the file. 2. Schedule the Veteran for a VA examination to determine the current severity of his cervical and lumbar spine disabilities. All indicated tests and studies should be performed. The examiner must identify the symptoms and functional impairment associated with the disabilities and discuss the degree of occupational and social impairment caused by his symptoms, specifically, the Veteran’s ability to hold substantially gainful employment considering his spine disorders and other service-connected disabilities. JOHN Z. JONES Veterans Law Judge Board of Veterans’ Appeals Attorney for the Board Jorge Barroso, Associate Counsel The Board’s decision in this case is binding only with respect to the instant matter decided. This decision is not precedential and does not establish VA policies or interpretations of general applicability. 38 C.F.R. § 20.1303.