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Granted

The Veteran's service-connected lumbar strain, myositis with spondylosis is currently rated at 20 percent. The Board finds that the evidence supports a higher rating of 40 percent.

The deciding factor: The VA examination conducted in January 2009 showed forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine to no less than 30 degrees, which does not meet the criteria for a 40 percent disability rating under the General Rating Formula. However, there is evidence of guarding and tenderness that results in abnormal gait or spinal contour.

Claimed conditions
lumbar strain, myositis
How they argued it
Direct service connection
Exposure basis
None
Rating assigned
20%
Decision date
January 6, 2012
Citation
1200403

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 1200403.

What this means for you

A grant means the Board agreed the veteran was entitled to the benefit. Decisions like this show the kind of evidence and arguments that tend to succeed for claims like it.

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