Back / lumbar spine decisions — 2025

The appeal was dismissed because the veteran died while it was pending. The decision does not affect the right of an eligible person to continue the appeal.

The veteran's appeal for higher ratings for service-connected conditions was dismissed because the veteran withdrew the appeal.

The veteran's claim for a higher rating for scoliosis and back scars was denied, but the effective date for service connection for these conditions was granted as of February 18, 2014. The claim for special monthly compensation was also denied.

The veteran's service connection for degenerative arthritis and degenerative disc disease of the thoracolumbar spine is granted. The Board found that these conditions were incurred during active duty.

The veteran's request for an earlier effective date for service connection of a back disability was denied. The VA determined that the correct forms were not submitted in time.

The veteran's claim for service connection for a herniated lumbar disc with arthritis and lumbar strain was granted. The Board found that the condition is at least as likely as not related to service.

The Board granted service connection for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) as secondary to the veteran's service-connected depressive disorder and other conditions.

The Board denied the veteran's claims for earlier effective dates for service connection and increased disability ratings.

The Board denied the veteran's request for an effective date prior to July 29, 2020, for service connection of degenerative disc disease thoracolumbar spine.

The Veteran's claims for service connection for a back disability and fibromyalgia were dismissed because the Veteran did not file a timely appeal.

The veteran is granted an effective date of August 5, 2021 for a total disability rating due to individual unemployability (TDIU) based on service-connected disabilities.

The Board denied service connection for PTSD and other psychiatric disorders, as well as a total disability rating based on individual unemployability.

The Board denied service connection for several conditions but granted it for right hip disability and assigned a 20 percent rating for right knee instability. Some issues were remanded.

Service connection for the veteran's left and right knee conditions was denied. The issue of service connection for a back condition was remanded for further evaluation.

The Board denied the veteran's request for earlier effective dates for TDIU and DEA benefits. The veteran is already receiving a 100% disability rating and SMC benefits.

The Board remanded the veteran's claims for service connection of lumbar spine disorder, cervical spine disorder, bilateral hallux valgus, and bilateral shoulder strains. The VA examinations were deemed inadequate.

The Board granted service connection for the veteran's sleep apnea, finding it secondary to his service-connected depressive disorder, lumbar spine spondylosis with DDD, bilateral lower extremity radiculopathy, and bilateral hip strain.

The veteran's service-connected disabilities prevent him from securing and maintaining substantially gainful employment, so he is granted a total disability evaluation due to individual unemployability (TDIU).

The veteran's service-connected disabilities prevent him from securing and maintaining substantially gainful employment, so he is granted a total disability evaluation due to individual unemployability (TDIU).

The veteran's appeal for attorney fees was granted for increased evaluations of lumbar degenerative disc disease and migraines, but denied for radiculopathy of bilateral lower extremities and DEA eligibility.