BVA Case 07-1396: Back

Because the Board erred in determining that VA fulfilled its duty to assist by providing an adequate medical examination, the Court will vacate that portion of the March 2007 Board decision that denied entitlement to service connection for neck, right shoulder, right elbow, and arm conditions and remand the matter for further development and readjudication consistent with this decision.

Ramos's neck condition, the Board determined that [p]ain alone, without a diagnosed or identifiable underlying malady or condition, does not in and of itself constitute a disability for which service connection may be granted.

The Board also explained VA's duty to assist, including when VA is required to provide a medical examination, but determined that those requirements were not met in this case because Mr.

[and] there is no evidence that suggests a nexus between service and the alleged disorders at issue.

Ramos contends that the Board erred in finding that VA fulfilled its duty to assist in obtaining evidence to substantiate his claim for a neck condition.

Ramos argues that the Board erred by rendering medical conclusions that were unsubstantiated by the medical evidence of record.

Ramos also argues that the Board erred in its determination that he was not entitled to an extraschedular rating for his service-connected ear disabilities.

Ramos also contends that the Board decision lacks adequate reasons and bases for its determinations concerning VA's duty to assist and entitlement to an extraschedular rating.