The veteran's cervical spine and low back conditions are currently rated at 20 percent, but the Board finds that a higher rating is not warranted based on the evidence of record.
The deciding factor: The VA examinations have consistently shown no more than slight limitation of motion in both the cervical and lumbar spines, without ankylosis or incapacitating episodes as required for higher ratings.
- Claimed conditions
- {"condition_name":"Postoperative cervical spine fusion C5 and C6","additional_notes":"Associated with degenerative changes"}, {"condition_name":"Chronic low back disability","additional_notes":"Associated with degenerative joint disease"}, {"condition_name":"Sinusitis/allergic rhinitis"}
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 20%
- Decision date
- January 9, 2006
- Citation
- 0600442
What this means for you
A denial is a starting point, not the end of the road. You can see why this claim fell short — and, if you are still inside the one-year window, the appeal lanes that may remain open to you.
What you can do next
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
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- Granted
The Board granted service connection for myasthenia gravis based on the Veteran's exposure to hazardous substances during his military service.
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