SAF/MRBD (PDBR)
3351 Celmers Lane
JBA NAF Washington, MD 20762-6435

MEMORANDUM FOR THE DIRECTOR, AIR FORCE REVIEW BOARDS AGENCY

SUBJECT:  Physical Disability Board of Review Recommendation on Case Number PD-2018-00005

	In accordance with Title 10 § 1554a and in compliance with DoDI 6040.44, the Physical Disability Board of Review (PDBR) adjudicated the disability rating accompanying the medical separation of the covered individual (CI) from the United States Air Force.  After carefully reviewing the application and medical separation case file, the PDBR recommended no re-characterization of the separation or modification of the disability rating previously assigned.  I recommend you accept this proposed decision.

	The CI was an active duty E5, Aerospace Maintenance Craftsman, medically separated for “lumbar degenerative disc disease” with a disability rating of 20%. The PEB rated the back condition 20%, analogously coded 5243 (intervertebral disc syndrome (IVDS)).  The VA rating decision was not included in the case file, but the Compensation and Pension (C&P) examination documented thoracolumbar flexion to 50 degrees and a combined ROM of 190 degrees, with pain in all planes of motion.  A 20% rating, but no higher, was justified for limitation of flexion greater than 30 degrees but not greater than 60 degrees, as recorded at the C&P examination, which was most proximate to separation.  There was no documentation of IVDS with incapacitating episodes which would provide for a higher rating under that formula.  After due deliberation, considering all the evidence and mindful of VASRD §4.3 (reasonable doubt), the panel concluded there was insufficient cause to recommend a change in the PEB adjudication for the low back condition.  

SAF/MRB
3351 Celmers Lane
JBA NAF Washington, MD 20762-6435

Dear XXXXXXXX:

		Reference your application submitted under the provisions of DoDI 6040.44 (Section 1554, 10 USC), PDBR Case Number PD-2018-00005.

After careful consideration of your application and treatment records, the Physical Disability Board of Review determined that the rating assigned at the time of final disposition of your disability evaluation system processing was appropriate.  Accordingly, the Board recommended no rating modification or re-characterization of your separation.

I have carefully reviewed the evidence of record and the recommendation of the Board.  I concur with that finding and their conclusion that modification of your disability rating or characterization of your separation is not warranted.  Accordingly, I accept the recommendation that your application be denied.