The veteran's claims for increased initial disability ratings and service connection were denied as the evidence did not support higher ratings or service connection.
The deciding factor: The veteran's conditions did not meet the criteria for a higher rating based on the current medical findings and diagnostic codes applicable to his service-connected disabilities.
- Claimed conditions
- Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD), lumbar spine, claimed as low back injury, Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD), cervical spine, claimed as neck injury, Osteoarthritis, tendonitis, right shoulder (major), Osteoarthritis, tendonitis, left shoulder (minor), Right hand condition, Right arm condition, Right leg condition
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- None in this decision
- Decision date
- January 16, 2009
- Citation
- 0901909
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.
- Denied
The Board denied service connection for multiple conditions, including cervical spine, chronic fatigue, and various nerve damages, as the evidence did not support a finding of a current disability related to in-service events.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board remands the claims for an initial rating in excess of 10 percent for degenerative disc disease and associated radiculopathy, as the record does not include all relevant treatment records prior to back surgery.
- Denied
The Board denied service connection for lumbar spine, right leg, and acquired psychiatric disorder due to lack of new and relevant evidence. Sarcoidosis and sarcoidosis arthritis were also denied as there was no medical evidence linking them to the Veteran's service.
- Granted
The Board granted service connection for bilateral hand and lower extremity conditions as secondary to hypertension, SMC based on the need for aid and attendance, and a 70 percent rating for PTSD.
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.