The veteran's service-connected lumbar spine disability is not shown to be manifested by more than moderate disc disease, does not produce more than moderate limitation of thoracolumbar motion, does not cause incapacitating episodes, and does not limit thoracolumbar motion to 30 degrees or less; ankylosis is not shown, nor are there neurologic symptoms separately ratable.
The deciding factor: The veteran's lumbar spine disability did not meet the criteria for a higher rating as it did not demonstrate more than moderate intervertebral disc syndrome with recurring attacks, severe limitation of motion, or incapacitating episodes that required bed rest and treatment by a physician.
- Claimed conditions
- degenerative joint and disc disease of the lumbar spine
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 20%
- Decision date
- August 4, 2004
- Citation
- 0421388
This is a plain-language summary generated by AI from a public Board of Veterans’ Appeals decision. It can contain errors — always verify against the original. Look up the original decision on VA.gov (opens in a new tab) using citation 0421388.
What this means for you
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What you can do next
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Granted
For the period prior to October 29, 2021, SMC under 38 U.S.C. § 1114(s) based on housebound status is denied.,For the entire appeal period, SMC under 38 U.S.C. § 1114(l) based on need of regular aid and attendance is granted.
- Granted
The Board has granted service connection for degenerative joint and disc disease of the lumbar spine, finding that the Veteran's pain in his back after carrying a rucksack during service is related to his current condition.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board remanded all issues to the VA for further action. The Veteran's claims are not granted or denied at this time.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board remanded all issues to correct an error in providing the veteran with notice of his right to a pre-decisional hearing.
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