The Veteran's service-connected L4-L5 degenerative disc disease with arthritis and mechanical back pain, status post laminectomy, was found to be manifested by tenderness to palpation, occasional radiating pain down the lower extremities, and recurring attacks with a history of muscle spasms. Since October 26, 2010, his condition has been characterized primarily by pain and limitation of motion with flexion to as little as 25 degrees. The Veteran's claim for increased ratings was denied.
The deciding factor: The VA examiner found that the Veteran exaggerated his symptoms during the examination, leading to a conclusion that he did not meet the criteria for higher ratings.
- Claimed conditions
- L4-L5 degenerative disc disease with arthritis and mechanical back pain, status post laminectomy
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating
- Not verified here — check the original decision
- Decision date
- March 29, 2012
- Citation
- 1211396
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. Read the original VA decision (opens in a new tab) using citation 1211396.
What this means for you
A final Board denial may be appealed to the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims, generally within 120 days of the Board mailing date. A Supplemental Claim with new and relevant evidence is a separate option. Another Higher-Level Review of the Board decision is not available. Check your own notice: this historical decision does not set your deadline.
What you can do next
Use your own notice and decision stage. A remanded issue is not a final court-appealable denial. VA review guidance and CAVC filing instructions (U.S. federal; reviewed October 7, 2026).
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