Neck / cervical spine decisions — 2021

The Veteran's claims for increased ratings and service connection have been remanded due to the failure to report for VA examinations. The issues of service connection for nerve disabilities of the lower extremities are inextricably intertwined with the rating claims.

The Board has remanded the issues of service connection for various conditions, including a cervical spine disability and peripheral neuropathy in multiple extremities. The Veteran's claims are pending further examination and review.

The Board has dismissed all pending appeals due to the Veteran's withdrawal of his claims.

The Veteran withdrew his appeal for increased ratings and TDIU, expressing satisfaction with the current combined 100% rating. He also did not pursue earlier effective dates or CUE claims.

The Board has remanded the case due to inadequate medical opinions and failure to address specific issues as per previous remand directives.

The Veteran's increased rating claims for cervical spine DJD and IVDS, left shoulder strain, left hip limitation of extension, left hip flexion, and left hip impairment of thigh have all been denied as the evidence does not support higher ratings under applicable diagnostic codes.

The Veteran's initial ratings for cervical and lumbar strains have been denied as the evidence does not support a higher rating based on current functional limitations.

The Board has remanded the case due to incomplete VA treatment records from Pensacola, FL. The Veteran's claim for service connection for a cervical spine disability will be reconsidered after obtaining these records.

The Board has granted service connection for the Veteran's thoracolumbar spine disability, but denied service connection for his cervical spine disability.

The Veteran's claim for a higher rating for degenerative disc disease of the cervical spine was denied as his symptoms did not meet the criteria for a higher rating under Diagnostic Code 5237.

The Board has decided to remand the Veteran's claims for service connection for lumbar and cervical spine disabilities, as secondary to a service-connected left knee disability. The claims will be reviewed again with new evidence and an examination by an orthopedist/orthopedic surgeon.

The Board has remanded the case for further development due to incomplete compliance with previous remand directives and issues related to neurologic complications of IVDS.

The Board has granted service connection for a thoracolumbar spine disorder, but denied service connection for a cervical spine disorder.

The Board has granted service connection for status post cervical discectomy with intervertebral disc syndrome, bilateral shoulder osteoarthritis, migraines, and depression with anxiety as these conditions are related to a neck injury sustained during active duty training in April 2010.

The Board has remanded the claims for neck disability, anxiety disorder, and right knee disability due to insufficient medical opinions and outdated records. The Veteran will need new VA examinations and updated medical records.

The Board has granted service connection for chronic musculotendinous strain of the cervical spine and chronic musculotendinous strain of the lumbar spine as secondary to a left ankle disability.

The Board has granted service connection for a right foot disability, but the claims for neck and back disabilities are being remanded due to insufficient evidence.

The Board has found that the Veteran's right hand disorder, cervical spine disorder, and bilateral eye disorder are related to service. However, due to incomplete records and need for further examination, the case is being remanded.

The Board has determined that the VA opinions obtained are inadequate to adjudicate the claims with respect to service connection for thoracic spine, cervical spine, and elbow disabilities. The Veteran's reports of in-service injuries and ongoing pain since service discharge must be considered.,The Veteran is entitled to a remand for additional examinations regarding his claimed right knee osteoarthritis and TDIU.

The Board has remanded the claims of service connection for residuals of head injury, degenerative arthritis of the cervical spine, and radiculopathy of the upper extremities due to procedural errors and insufficient development. The Veteran needs a VA examination by a neurologist or other headache specialist to address his claim of service connection for head injury residuals, including headaches. If deemed relevant, an opinion with respect to the nature and etiology of the cervical spine disability and related radiculopathy should also be obtained.