The Veteran's lumbosacral strain (low back disability) is rated at 20 percent, which is the maximum schedular rating available. The Board finds that his symptoms do not warrant a higher evaluation as they do not meet or approximate the criteria for a higher rating under any applicable diagnostic code.
The deciding factor: The Veteran's lumbosacral strain does not result in forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine less than 30 degrees, favorable ankylosis, incapacitating episodes of intervertebral disc syndrome, or associated neurological impairment. The current rating adequately reflects his disability level.
- Claimed conditions
- lumbosacral strain (low back disability)
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 20%
- Decision date
- February 5, 2014
- Citation
- 1405327
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 1405327.
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.
- Granted
The Board has granted service connection for a lumbosacral strain (low back disability) based on the Veteran's in-service injury and his current symptoms. The decision is binding only with respect to this specific case.
- Granted
The Board has granted service connection for the Veteran's low back disability, finding that it is at least as likely as not related to his active service.
- Partly granted
The Veteran's claim for service connection for low back disability was granted. The case is remanded for further examination and opinion regarding the Veteran's claim for service connection for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).,Service connection for lumbosacral strain has been established, but the issue of service connection for OSA remains pending due to a remand.
- Denied
The Board denied service connection for a low back disability and left shoulder impingement syndrome, finding no current diagnosed disabilities that meet the criteria for service connection.
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