Neck / cervical spine decisions — 2007

The Board denied the veteran's claims for service connection for arthritis of the lumbar spine and an increased evaluation for residuals of a cervical compression fracture with post-operative residuals of a spinal fusion. The veteran's lumbar disorder was not shown to be incurred in or aggravated by active military service, and his cervical spine disability did not meet the criteria for a higher rating under the applicable VA rating criteria.

The veteran's claim for an increased rating for his service-connected arthritis of the cervical and dorsal spine was denied as there is no evidence showing a severe limitation of motion or associated neurological abnormalities.

The veteran withdrew his appeals, thus the case is dismissed.

The Board has remanded the case for further development, including obtaining verification of service periods and scheduling VA examinations to determine the nature, severity, and etiology of the veteran's claimed conditions.

The Board granted separate 10 percent ratings for osteoarthritis of the right and left hip, a 20 percent rating for degenerative arthritis of the cervical spine, and 30 percent rating for duodenal ulcer, hiatal hernia and erosive esophagitis effective from October 25, 1999.

The Board found that the veteran's service-connected dorsal spine disability does not warrant a higher rating, and did not meet the criteria for service connection of cervical or lumbar spine disabilities.

The Board found that the veteran's cervical spine, thoracic spine, and condition manifested by headaches and blackouts were not incurred or aggravated during active service.

The veteran's cervical disc degeneration with cervical brachial neuralgia was granted service connection as it was found to be related to her November 1978 automobile accident.

The veteran's irritable bowel syndrome and right knee disorder, including arthritis, were not incurred in or aggravated by active service.,Service connection for a cervical spine disorder, including arthritis, was denied as there is no evidence of an inservice injury.