Neck / cervical spine Board decisions

The Veteran's increased ratings for cervical and lumbar spine disabilities are denied, with separate ratings granted for radiculopathy of the left upper extremity associated with his cervical spine disability.

The Veteran's claims for revision of rating decisions and effective date determinations are being remanded due to the need for further review and consideration.

The Veteran's appeal was denied for various conditions, including allergic rhinitis, left ear hearing loss, tinnitus, hernia condition, right ankle and leg disabilities, sinusitis, cervical spine and lumbar spine conditions, chronic heart disease, chronic heart failure, hypertension, and sleep apnea. The appeals were all denied as the evidence did not meet the criteria for a higher rating or service connection.

The Board has granted the petitions to reopen claims for service connection for cervical disc disease, right knee condition, and right shoulder rotator cuff injury based on new and material evidence. The original denials were due to lack of in-service diagnosis or treatment records.

The Veteran's claim for increased ratings for his service-connected cervical degenerative disc disease was denied as the disability did not meet the criteria for a higher evaluation under VA rating criteria.

The Veteran's claim for a total disability rating based on individual unemployability (TDIU) due to service-connected disabilities other than panic disorder was denied. The Board found that the Veteran is not unemployable due to her service-connected disabilities other than her panic disorder.

The Board denied the Veteran's claims for service connection and temporary total rating for his cervical spine disability, finding that there was no evidence linking his current condition to service.

The Board has determined that the Veteran's appeals were improperly placed on the AMA Hearing Docket and should be re-docketed under the Legacy system. The Veteran is advised to file a VA Form 9 if he wishes to continue his appeal.

The Board has determined that the Veteran's combined service-connected disabilities prevent him from securing or following a substantially gainful occupation, and therefore grants his claim for total disability based on individual unemployability.

The Board has granted service connection for DDD of the cervical spine. The other issues have been remanded due to insufficient evidence.

The Board has determined that the reduction in ratings for various disabilities was not proper and has ordered further examination and evaluation to determine if service connection is warranted.

The Veteran's service connection claim for a psychiatric disorder, diagnosed as unspecified anxiety disorder, is granted. The Board finds that the evidence is at least in approximate balance and concludes that his current psychiatric disability had an onset during active service.

The Veteran's service connection for obstructive sleep apnea has been granted.,For the entire initial rating period, a 30 percent rating for cervical disc disease is granted.

The Veteran is granted a total disability rating based on individual unemployability due to service-connected disabilities, effective August 10, 2022. The claim for TDIU is dismissed as the service-connected prostate cancer alone grants a 100% schedular rating and special monthly compensation (SMC) under 38 U.S.C. § 1114(s).

The Board has denied service connection for right and left knee disabilities, as well as low back and neck disabilities. The case is remanded to obtain a VA examination for the claimed low back disability and neck disability.

The Board has remanded the case for further development, including obtaining a medical opinion and clarifying the Veteran's claims. The issues of service connection for various conditions are also pending.

The Veteran's cervical spine disability is rated at 30 percent, which is the maximum rating available under current VA regulations. The Board found that the evidence does not support a higher rating due to limitations in range of motion and lack of ankylosis.

The Veteran's acquired psychiatric disorder, including PTSD, is related to his military service.,The Veteran's neck disability is related to his military service.,The Veteran's bilateral lower extremity radiculopathy is related to his military service.,The Veteran's low back disability is aggravated by his military service.

The Veteran's claim for an effective date prior to January 21, 2021 for the grant of service connection for chronic ulnar mononeuropathy with carpal tunnel syndrome was denied.,The Veteran's appeal for an earlier effective date for TDIU prior to January 21, 2021 was also denied.

The Veteran's adjustment disorder with anxiety, depressed mood and somatic disorder is granted a 30 percent rating effective March 21, 2019. The cervical strain condition remains at a 30 percent rating since that date. Service connection for posttraumatic degenerative arthritis of the cervical spine is also granted.