The Veteran's increased ratings for chronic lower back strain with degenerative disc and joint disease of the lumbar spine, as well as initial increased rating for degenerative disc and joint disease of the cervical spine, were granted effective November 23, 2011.
The deciding factor: The VA examiner determined that the Veteran's conditions did not meet criteria for higher ratings based on ankylosis or incapacitating episodes.
- Claimed conditions
- chronic lower back strain with degenerative disc and joint disease, degenerative disc and joint disease of the cervical spine
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 40%
- Decision date
- October 18, 2012
- Citation
- 1236238
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 1236238.
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.
What you can do next
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Dismissed
The Board dismissed the Veteran's appeals for service connection for various conditions, including headaches, hemorrhoids, cervical spine degenerative disc and joint disease, left hand condition, and right hand condition, as secondary to his service-connected lumbar spine disability.
- Granted
The Veteran's service-connected disabilities have rendered him in need of regular aid and attendance due to his inability to perform daily activities such as feeding, dressing, bathing, and attending to personal hygiene needs. The Board has granted special monthly compensation based on the need for aid and attendance.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has remanded the Veteran's claims for increased ratings for cervical spine and right lower extremity radiculopathy due to incomplete development.
- Granted
The Veteran's service-connected disabilities have rendered him unable to secure or follow a substantially gainful occupation, and the Board finds that he meets the criteria for TDIU.
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