The Board denied the veteran's claims for increased ratings for his lumbosacral and thoracic spine disabilities, finding that the evidence did not meet the criteria for a higher rating at any point.
The deciding factor: The VA examinations and medical records showed no objective evidence of radiculopathy or significant functional impairment in the veteran's back conditions. The veteran’s symptoms were managed with pain medication and physical therapy, but his range of motion was limited by pain and fatigue.
- Claimed conditions
- spondylolisthesis at L5 and S1, compression fracture of T-12
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- None in this decision
- Decision date
- February 23, 2006
- Citation
- 0605131
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.
- Granted
The Board granted service connection for obstructive sleep apnea, effective from the date of the February 2025 rating decision.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board remands the claim for a medical examination to determine if the Veteran's current neck strain is related to his in-service activities.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board remands the claim for a rating in excess of 70 percent for PTSD due to an inadequate medical opinion.
- Granted
The Board granted service connection for myasthenia gravis based on the Veteran's exposure to hazardous substances during his military service.
We are not the VA. Veterans’ Rights is an independent resource built for veterans. We are not the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, not part of the government, and not endorsed by any government agency.
This is general information, not legal advice. For advice about your own situation, talk to a VA-accredited representative — many help for free.