Veterans’ RightsAn independent resource for veterans
← All decisions
Denied

The Veteran's post-operative residuals of L5 lumbar spondylosis are currently evaluated at 40 percent, effective September 14, 2009. The criteria for a higher evaluation do not meet or more nearly approximate the requirements for an evaluation greater than 40 percent.

The deciding factor: The Veteran's disability does not meet the criteria for unfavorable ankylosis of the entire thoracolumbar spine, which is required for a higher rating under Diagnostic Code 5243. The evidence shows limited range of motion but no fixation in flexion or extension.

Claimed conditions
post-operative residuals of L5 lumbar spondylosis
How they argued it
Direct service connection
Exposure basis
None
Rating assigned
40%
Decision date
November 28, 2011
Citation
1143438

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 1143438.

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.

Free starter guide for your own claim

Reading this because you were denied or under-rated? Get the plain-English next steps — your appeal options, the deadline that protects you, and how appeals like yours turn out. One email, no spam.

We will only use this to send the guide. No spam, unsubscribe any time. We never sell your information.

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.