The VA denied an initial evaluation in excess of 10 percent for degenerative changes to the veteran's lumbar spine, finding that the current range of motion and symptoms do not warrant a higher rating.
The deciding factor: The VA determined that the veteran's disability did not meet the criteria for a higher evaluation based on his specific range of motion and functional impairment.
- Claimed conditions
- Degenerative Changes of the Lumbar Spine
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 10%
- Decision date
- February 9, 2007
- Citation
- 0704197
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 0704197.
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 has granted earlier effective dates for the Veteran's MDD and lumbar spine disability ratings, as well as his TDIU eligibility. The Veteran's claims are now effective as of March 15, 2012.
- Granted
The Veteran's MDD is rated at 70 percent, effective December 22, 2011. A TDIU based solely on the service-connected lumbar spine and associated radiculopathy of the lower extremities is granted since January 15, 2010. Effective December 22, 2011, SMC at the 38 U.S.C. § 1114(s) rate is granted.
- Granted
The Veteran's service connection claims for degenerative changes of the lumbar spine, right and left lower extremity radiculopathy are granted. The rating assigned is 10%.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Veteran's claims for increased ratings and TDIU are being remanded due to the need for additional examinations and development of his medical records.
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