Citation Nr: 20009979 Decision Date: 02/06/20 Archive Date: 02/05/20 DOCKET NO. 17-32 107 DATE: February 6, 2020 REMANDED A rating higher than 20 percent for chronic low back strain with degenerative disc disease and radicular symptoms is remanded. REASONS FOR REMAND The Veteran serviced honorably from September 2000 to January 2009. The record reflects that the Veteran was last examined by VA regarding his service-connected back disability in October 2017. An updated examination is needed. The matter is REMANDED for the following action: 1. Obtain updated VA treatment records. 2. Schedule the Veteran for orthopedic and neurological examinations to determine the current severity of his service-connected low back disability. A detailed history of relevant symptoms should be obtained from the Veteran. All indicated tests and studies should be performed and all clinical findings reported in detail. Complete range of motion measurements must be provided. The range of motion testing must include in active motion, passive motion, weight-bearing, and non-weight-bearing. The examiner should render specific findings as to whether, during the examination, there is objective evidence of pain on motion, weakness, excess fatigability, or incoordination. If pain on motion is observed, the examiner should indicate the point at which pain begins. In addition, indicate whether, and to what extent, the Veteran experiences functional loss due to pain or any of the other symptoms during flare-ups or with repeated use. To the extent possible, the examiner should express any additional functional loss in terms of additional degrees of limited motion. The examiner should also state whether the examination is taking place during a period of flare-up. If not, the examiner should ask the Veteran to describe the flare-ups he experiences, including: frequency, duration, characteristics, precipitating and alleviating factors, severity and/or extent of functional impairment he experiences during a flare-up after repeated use over time. JOHN Z. JONES Veterans Law Judge Board of Veterans’ Appeals Attorney for the Board Pamela F. Mucklow 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 This decision is not precedential and does not establish VA policies or interpretations of general applicability. 38 C.F.R. § 20.1303.