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Denied

The veteran's claim for a higher evaluation for his service-connected back disorder was denied. The RO increased the rating to 40 percent effective September 26, 2003.

The deciding factor: The VA examination showed that on and after September 26, 2003, the residuals of the veteran's fracture resulted in forward flexion of 10 degrees in the thoracolumbar spine with episodic, non-radiating pain. The earlier period prior to September 26, 2003, did not meet the criteria for a higher evaluation.

Claimed conditions
residuals of a fracture of the T-12 vertebra
How they argued it
Direct service connection
Exposure basis
None
Rating assigned
40%
Decision date
November 17, 2005
Citation
0531077

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 0531077.

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