The Veteran's service-connected low back pain associated with mild degenerative changes is currently rated at 10 percent, but the evidence does not support a higher rating as his range of motion and muscle spasm do not meet the criteria for any higher evaluation.
The deciding factor: The Veteran's range of motion testing did not show flexion less than 30 degrees or extension less than 15 degrees, which are required for an increased rating under Diagnostic Code 5239. Additionally, there was no evidence of muscle spasm or guarding severe enough to result in abnormal gait or spinal contour.
- Claimed conditions
- Low back pain associated with mild degenerative changes
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 10%
- Decision date
- February 3, 2014
- Citation
- 1404725
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 1404725.
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