Neck / cervical spine Board decisions

The Veteran's claim for an increased evaluation for service-connected cervical strain with intervertebral disc syndrome is being remanded due to the need for a VA examination to assess the presence and severity of any associated neurological abnormalities, particularly in the upper extremities. The issue remains on appeal as the maximum benefit was not granted.

The Veteran's cervical spine disability was rated at 20 percent prior to September 1, 2010. Effective September 1, 2010, the rating for her cervical spine disability was increased to 30 percent.

The Board has granted service connection for a cervical spine disability due to aggravation during active duty. The Veteran's tinnitus claim is denied as she did not file an informal claim prior to January 9, 2009.

The Board has determined that new and material evidence has been presented to reopen the claim for service connection for cervical spine disability. The Veteran's low back disability is also being considered as secondary to his service-connected right shoulder disability.

The Board has decided to remand the Veteran's claim for additional development, including obtaining VA treatment records and scheduling a VA examination.

The Veteran's service-connected cervical spine disability and left upper extremity radiculopathy are not rated higher than the current 20 percent and 10 percent ratings, respectively.

The Veteran's incomplete tetraplegia and cervical spine disability are service-connected, with the latter being secondary to his service-connected cervical spine disability. He is also granted special monthly compensation based on aid and attendance.

The VA determined that the Veteran's current neck disability, diagnosed as degenerative joint disease, was not incurred in or aggravated by service. The Board found no evidence of a chronic condition during service and insufficient continuity of symptomatology post-service to establish service connection.

The Veteran's service-connected disabilities preclude him from obtaining or maintaining substantially gainful employment, and the Board finds that his TDIU claim should be granted.

The Board denied service connection for cervical spine disability and low back disability, finding no evidence of an in-service injury or disease that could be linked to the current disabilities.

The Board has remanded the case for further development, including obtaining VA treatment records and requesting an addendum from the July 2009 VA examiner to determine if the cervical spine disability is aggravated by the service-connected right knee disability.

The Board has determined that new and material evidence has been presented to reopen the Veteran's claims for service connection for cervical arthritis and lumbar myofascitis, L5-S1 degenerative disk disease (DDD), and facet arthrosis. The Board finds that these conditions are related to service.

The Veteran's appeal is being remanded for further development, including VA examinations to determine the etiology of his cervical spine disability and erectile dysfunction.

The Veteran's cervical spine disability and thoracolumbar spine disability were granted initial ratings of 10% prior to September 14, 2011. From June 15, 2011 to August 25, 2012, the Veteran was granted a higher rating of 20%. The right knee disability received an initial rating of 10%, effective July 31, 2012.

The Veteran's cervical spine disability and associated radiculopathy of the upper extremities were granted initial ratings, with the right and left arm disabilities each receiving a separate 20 percent rating effective February 13, 2004.

The Veteran seeks service connection for a cervical spine disorder, which he asserts had its onset during his military service. The Board has determined that the VA examination conducted in July 2012 was inadequate and requires an additional opinion to address the Veteran's lay testimony regarding neck pain since service.

The Board has determined that the Veteran's lumbar and cervical spine disabilities were not incurred or aggravated during service, and thus cannot be granted on a direct basis. The secondary service connection claim for the cervical spine disability is also denied.

The Board has reopened the Veteran's claim of service connection for a bilateral ankle disorder and determined that new and material evidence has been received. The Board also found that generalized osteoarthritis, which is hereditary in nature, was incurred during service.

The Board has determined that the Veteran's right shoulder, lumbar spine, and cervical spine disabilities are not related to his military service. The claims for these conditions have been denied.

The Veteran's cervical spine disability and migraine headaches claim are being remanded for additional development, including obtaining updated VA treatment records and scheduling a new examination to determine the etiology of her cervical spine disability. The issue of whether new and material evidence has been submitted to reopen her migraine headaches claim is also addressed.