The veteran's low back disability, characterized by degenerative disc disease and mechanical low back pain, does not meet the criteria for a rating in excess of 20 percent.
The deciding factor: The veteran's range of motion was limited to moderate levels with no significant neurological impairment or incapacitating episodes. The current rating adequately reflects his disability level.
- Claimed conditions
- degenerative disc disease of the lumbar spine, mechanical low back pain
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 20%
- Decision date
- July 20, 2006
- Citation
- 0621438
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 0621438.
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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The Board granted service connection for GERD, left wrist sprain, right knee strain, and degenerative disc disease of the lumbar spine. The claim for an increased rating for generalized anxiety disorder with depressive disorder was denied.
- Dismissed
The appeal for service connection for cervical strain with degenerative disease and degenerative disc disease of the lumbar spine was dismissed as it was not timely filed.
- Granted
The Veteran's claim for special monthly compensation (SMC) based on the need for aid and attendance is granted, as he requires regular assistance with dressing, keeping himself clean and presentable, and attending to his bodily needs due to service-connected disabilities.
- Partly granted
The Board granted service connection for tinea capitis, hypertension, and degenerative disc disease of the lumbar spine but denied service connection for sinusitis and urinary tract infections. The claims for PTSD, hearing loss, chest pain, right hip condition, left hip condition, and right knee condition were remanded.
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