Neck / cervical spine decisions — 2007

The veteran's claims of service connection for hypertension and increased ratings for cervical and lumbar spine disabilities are being remanded due to the need for additional development. The claims of a compensable rating for headaches have been withdrawn as perfected.

The veteran's claims for increased ratings and service connection were denied. The Board found that the evidence did not meet the criteria for a higher rating for IBS/GERD or cervical spine disability, and there was insufficient evidence to establish service connection for headaches, pseudofolliculitis barbae, or pes planus.

The veteran has withdrawn all of his claims before the VA.

The veteran's service-connected disabilities were granted with initial evaluations. The bilateral pes planus and hallux valgus of the right foot each received a noncompensable evaluation, while carpal tunnel syndrome was assigned 10 percent ratings for both wrists.

The Board has determined that the veteran's cervical arthritis with spondylosis was not incurred in or aggravated by active service, is not proximately due to or the result of his service-connected gun shot wound, nor may it be presumed to have been incurred during service. Therefore, the claim for service connection is denied.

The veteran's appeal involves multiple issues including increased ratings for knee disabilities and effective dates, as well as a TDIU claim. The case is being remanded to the RO for additional development of evidence.

The Board has granted service connection for degenerative disc disease of the cervical spine and a 50 percent rating for PTSD. The effective date will be determined in accordance with VA rules.

The veteran's appeal of the issue regarding service connection for peripheral neuropathy due to nerve impingement, bilateral upper extremities has been withdrawn. The other issues remain under consideration.

The VA denied increased ratings for cervical strain and headaches associated with cervical strain, finding that the veteran's disability did not warrant a higher evaluation based on current medical evidence.

The Board has determined that the veteran's cervical spine disorder is related to his military service, but further examination and review of the claims file are needed to determine if it was caused or aggravated by a service-connected right hip disorder.

The VA denied the veteran's claim for an increased evaluation of his cervical spine disability, currently rated at 40 percent. The evidence did not show favorable or unfavorable ankylosis, pronounced neurological symptoms, or prescribed bed rest.

The Board denied the veteran's claims for increased rating for left knee disability, service connection for right arm and hand disability, and service connection for cervical disc disease. The decision found that there was no evidence of chronicity or continuity of symptoms post-service to support these claims.

The veteran is seeking compensation under 38 U.S.C.A. § 1151 for a seizure with resulting scalp laceration and neck disability, claimed as due to VA medical treatment. The Board has remanded the case for further development.

The Board has remanded the veteran's claims for additional development due to incomplete information and need for medical opinions.

The Board denied service connection for cervical degenerative disc disease and denied a total disability rating based on individual unemployability due to the veteran's service-connected lumbar spine disorder. The Board found that the cervical spine disorder did not manifest in service or as a result of his service-connected lumbar spine disorder.

The veteran's knee and elbow disabilities have been rated as 10 percent disabling since January 1, 2002. The thoracic arthritis is currently non-compensably disabling.

The Board has denied the veteran's claims for service connection for various shoulder, back, wrist, and cervical spine disabilities due to a lack of evidence linking these conditions to his military service.

The Board denied service connection for various conditions, including arthritis of the shoulders and elbows, DDD of the cervical spine, degenerative changes status post laminectomy of the lumbar spine, peripheral neuropathy of all extremities, a bladder disorder, migraine headaches, and a psychiatric disorder. The evidence did not support a finding of exposure to ionizing radiation during service.

The Board has denied the veteran's claims for service connection for chest pain, hypoglycemia, carpal tunnel syndrome (right upper extremity), a chronic gastrointestinal disorder, a cervical spine disorder, and a lumbar spine disorder. The Board also found that left carpel tunnel syndrome is not related to service.

The veteran's cervical spine problems are related to service and the Board has granted service connection for these conditions.