SAF/MRBD (PDBR)
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MEMORANDUM FOR THE DIRECTOR, ARMY REVIEW BOARDS AGENCY

SUBJECT:  Physical Disability Board of Review Recommendation on XXXXXXXXX 
	Case Number PD-2021-00016

	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 from the United States Army.  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 covered individual (CI) was an active duty E4, Information Technology Specialist, medically separated for “chronic low back pain” with a disability rating of 20%.  The PEB rated the low back condition 20%, coded 5237 (lumbosacral strain), citing forward flexion of 44 degrees and total combined motion of 120 degrees.  The VA did not service connect the low back condition, citing no evidence to validate the claim.  The panel agreed that a 20% rating, but no higher, was justified for limitation of flexion (greater than 30 degrees but not greater than 60 degrees) as reported on the MEB, narrative summary and physical therapy examinations.  There was no evidence of intervertebral disc syndrome which resulted in incapacitating episodes requiring physician-prescribed bed rest to warrant consideration of rating under that alternate VASRD 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.  

	Sincerely,

Attachments:
Exhibit A.  DD Form 294, dated 20210218, w/atchs
Exhibit B.  Service Treatment Record
Exhibit C.  Department of Veterans Affairs Record

AR20210017077, XXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Dear XXXXXXXXXXXXX:

	The Department of Defense Physical Disability Board of Review (DoD PDBR) reviewed your application and found your separation disability rating and your separation from the Army for disability with severance pay to be accurate.  I have reviewed the Board’s recommendation and record of proceedings (copy enclosed), and I accept its recommendation.  I regret to inform you that your application to the DoD PDBR is denied.  

	This decision is final.  Recourse within the Department of Defense or the Department of the Army is exhausted; however, you have the option to seek relief by filing suit in a court of appropriate jurisdiction.

Sincerely,