The Veteran's degenerative joint disease and degenerative disc disease of the lumbar spine are currently rated at 10 percent, but do not meet the criteria for a higher rating based on limitation of motion or combined range of motion. The Board finds that the current schedular rating adequately reflects the severity of the disability.
The deciding factor: The Veteran's degenerative joint disease and degenerative disc disease have been rated under Diagnostic Code 5243, which pertains to intervertebral disc syndrome (IVDS). However, there is no evidence of incapacitating episodes requiring bed rest as per the criteria for a higher rating based on IVDS.
- Claimed conditions
- degenerative joint disease, degenerative disc disease
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 10%
- Decision date
- September 10, 2009
- Citation
- 0933877
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 0933877.
What this means for you
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Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Denied
The Board denied the Veteran's claim for service connection for a back condition, including degenerative disc disease and scoliosis, due to lack of current disability evidence.
- Denied
The Veteran's claim for an evaluation in excess of 40 percent for his lumbar spine disability has been denied. The Board found that the evidence did not meet the criteria for a higher rating, as there was no unfavorable ankylosis or incapacitating episodes of IVDS.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has determined that the VA examinations related to the Veteran's lower back condition and surgical scars are inadequate, necessitating a remand for further evaluation.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has remanded the Veteran's claims for service connection of a low back disability and bilateral lower extremity radiculopathy, finding inadequate medical opinions due to failure to consider all relevant evidence.
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