The Veteran's claims for increased ratings for his degenerative intervertebral disc disease of the lumbar spine and right S-1 sensory radiculopathy were denied as they did not meet the criteria for higher ratings under applicable VA rating criteria.
The deciding factor: The Veteran’s symptoms, including limited range of motion and mild sensory impairment, did not warrant a higher rating based on the current evidence of record.
- Claimed conditions
- Degenerative intervertebral disc disease of the lumbar spine, Right S-1 sensory radiculopathy
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 20%
- Decision date
- February 7, 2012
- Citation
- 1204761
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 1204761.
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 a low back disability multiple times, and the Veteran's claim was reopened in 2010. The effective date of service connection is set at June 29, 2010.
- Granted
The Veteran's service-connected disabilities, including degenerative intervertebral disc disease of the lumbar spine and cervical spine, as well as other conditions, have been considered. The claim for a compensable rating for residuals of a left elbow injury is granted, with an effective date to be determined based on further review. Service connection for varicose veins was denied previously. Compensation under 38 U.S.C. § 1151 for dental issues has also been addressed.
- Denied
The Veteran's degenerative intervertebral disc disease of the lumbar spine does not meet or approximate the criteria for a higher initial rating than the currently assigned 20 percent evaluation.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Veteran's claim for an increased rating for his service-connected degenerative intervertebral disc disease of the lumbar spine with left lower extremity radiculopathy is being remanded due to incomplete development and additional evidence needed.
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.