The VA determined that the veteran's lumbosacral strain does not warrant a rating higher than 20 percent, as his range of motion is sufficient to meet the criteria for a 20 percent disability rating under the revised spinal disability evaluation criteria.
The deciding factor: The veteran's lumbosacral strain did not result in severe limitation of motion or ankylosis that would warrant higher ratings. His current range of motion meets the criteria for a 20 percent disability rating.
- Claimed conditions
- Chronic lumbosacral strain
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 20%
- Decision date
- November 20, 2006
- Citation
- 0636102
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 0636102.
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 Veteran is granted special monthly compensation (SMC) based on the need for regular aid and attendance, effective December 8, 2025.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board remands the claims for further development and to obtain an adequate examination.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Veteran's appeal is remanded for further development regarding his claim for a total disability rating based on individual unemployability (TDIU).
- Granted
The Veteran's appeal for restoration of a 60 percent rating for chronic lumbosacral strain was granted. The appeal for an increased rating to a level above 60 percent was denied.
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.