The veteran's low back disability did not meet the criteria for a rating in excess of 20 percent prior to March 21, 2000, and did not meet the criteria for a rating in excess of 40 percent since that date.
The deciding factor: The evidence did not show severe limitation of motion, ankylosis, severe intervertebral disc syndrome, listing, a positive Goldthwaite's sign, marked limitation of forward bending, or abnormal mobility on forced motion prior to March 21, 2000. Since that date, the disability was not manifested by ankylosis, pronounced intervertebral disc syndrome, 'incapacitating episodes,' or objective neurological abnormalities.
- Claimed conditions
- status/post laminectomy of L5-S1 with limitation of motion
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- None in this decision
- Decision date
- May 22, 2008
- Citation
- 0816953
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
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