The Veteran's low back disability has been manifested by forward flexion of no less than 75 degrees and combined range of motion of the thoracolumbar spine of no less than 150 degrees; there is no evidence of intervertebral disc syndrome, associated neurological deficit or ankylosis. The criteria for a rating in excess of 20 percent have not been met.
The deciding factor: The Veteran's range of motion and disability do not meet the criteria for a higher rating under the applicable diagnostic codes.
- Claimed conditions
- Low Back Strain, Osteopenia
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 20%
- Decision date
- September 15, 2011
- Citation
- 1134669
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 1134669.
What this means for you
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What you can do next
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Veteran's claims for PTSD, infertility, osteopenia, and breast cancer are being remanded due to the need for further development.,Entitlement to a higher rating for PTSD is denied.
- Denied
The Veteran's claim for a higher rating for his low back disability is denied. The effective date of SMC and DEA benefits based on permanent and total disability status is granted.
- Granted
The Board has granted a rating of 40 percent for the Veteran's service-connected low back strain with degenerative arthritis, effective from September 26, 2008. The decision is based on functional limitation equivalent to forward flexion limited to 30 degrees or less due to pain and other symptoms.
- Dismissed
The Veteran's low back strain is rated at 40 percent, and the issues of IBS and CFS are dismissed. The Veteran's PTSD and depressive disorder with a major depressive episode do not meet criteria for a higher rating. Service connection is granted for cervical strain and right knee pain.
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