The Veteran's claims for increased ratings for chronic low back strain and stress fracture of the lower left leg were denied as there was no evidence to support higher ratings under the applicable rating criteria.
The deciding factor: The VA examinations did not show any incapacitating episodes or ankylosis, which are required for a higher rating under the General Formula for Diseases and Injuries of the Spine. The Veteran's symptoms were rated based on their impact on daily activities and range of motion without additional functional loss.
- Claimed conditions
- Chronic low back strain
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- None in this decision
- Decision date
- October 2, 2012
- Citation
- 1234285
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 1234285.
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.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has remanded the Veteran's claims for chronic low back strain and degenerative arthritis of the left wrist, as well as his claim for TDIU due to service-connected disabilities. The appeals are being remanded for additional examinations and consideration.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has remanded the cases for further development due to inconsistencies in prior examinations and insufficient information regarding the Veteran's disability picture.
- Denied
The Veteran's service-connected back and skin disabilities do not render him unable to secure or follow a substantially gainful occupation, thus his claim for TDIU is denied.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has remanded the claims of entitlement to increased ratings for degenerative arthritis of the left wrist and chronic low back strain due to inadequate examination reports that did not address the Veteran's reported flare-ups.
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.