The Board found that the Veteran's low back and shoulder disabilities do not meet or approximate the criteria for a higher initial disability rating in excess of 20 percent.
The deciding factor: The VA examinations showed no limitation of motion to 30 degrees, ankylosis, or incapacitating episodes required for a higher rating under Diagnostic Codes 5237 and 4.71a.
- Claimed conditions
- Chronic lumbar strain with degenerative joint disease, Left shoulder impingement syndrome
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- None in this decision
- Decision date
- August 24, 2012
- Citation
- 1229281
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 1229281.
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.
- Granted
The Veteran's service-connected disabilities require the aid and attendance of another person, warranting special monthly compensation based on aid and attendance.
- Partly granted
The Board granted service connection for hypertension and remanded claims related to a low back disability, bilateral shoulder impingement syndrome, and other conditions due to insufficient evidence.
- Denied
The Veteran's claim for VR&E benefits was denied because she did not have an employment handicap and was able to obtain suitable employment consistent with her abilities, aptitudes, and interests.
- Partly granted
The Board granted an increased rating of 20 percent, but no higher, for left shoulder impingement syndrome and denied the other claims.
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