The veteran's service-connected low back disability was rated at 40 percent effective May 1, 2005. The RO denied an increased rating for the veteran's GERD with a history of esophageal ulcer and IBS as not related to his active duty service.
The deciding factor: The VA examiner did not find evidence that the veteran's GERD or IBS were due to undiagnosed illness or service connection, thus denying these claims.
- Claimed conditions
- spondylolysis of the lumbar spine status-post lumbar decompression with L5 hemilaminectomy and parafacet cyst resection, GERD with a history of esophageal ulcer, IBS, bilateral patellofemoral pain syndrome, strain of the lower legs claimed as sore legs
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 40%
- Decision date
- August 28, 2006
- Citation
- 0626712
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 0626712.
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.
- Dismissed
The appeal for an initial rating in excess of 70 percent, effective March 18, 2021, for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) was withdrawn by the Veteran prior to the Board's decision and thus is dismissed.
- Granted
The Veteran's November 21, 2024 VA Form 20-0996 Request for Higher-Level Review was timely filed and the Board granted it.
- Partly granted
The Board denied service connection for multiple conditions, but granted service connection for bilateral hearing loss and tinnitus.
- Dismissed
The Veteran withdrew the appeal for service connection for IBS before a decision was made.
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.