The Board has determined that the Veteran's spondylosis and degenerative disc disease of the lumbar spine, bilateral hand disorder (likely including arthritis), and tempomandibular joint disorder are likely related to service. Therefore, these conditions have been granted service connection.
The deciding factor: The Veteran reported a history of low back pain since 2004 during service and has continued to experience symptoms since then. His current diagnosis of spondylosis is considered a 'chronic disease' under VA regulations. The Veteran also provided credible testimony regarding the onset of his hand disorder and TMJ issues during service, supported by private treatment records.
- Claimed conditions
- spondylosis and degenerative disc disease of the lumbar spine, bilateral hand disorder (likely including arthritis), tempomandibular joint disorder (TMJ)
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- None in this decision
- Decision date
- April 15, 2014
- Citation
- 1416752
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 1416752.
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.
- Denied
The Board denied the veteran's claims for increased ratings for migraines, tinnitus, hypertension, and hypothyroidism, as well as a compensable rating for TMJ. The appeal was denied based on the evidence of record.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has remanded the claim for service connection of left hip strain and denied a rating in excess of 10 percent for spondylosis and degenerative disc disease of the lumbar spine. The current rating is maintained.
- Granted
The Veteran's service-connected disabilities render her unable to secure and follow a substantially gainful occupation, leading to the grant of TDIU.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has remanded the case due to inadequate examination and the need for additional evidence. The Veteran's service-connected conditions are considered, but his lay statements regarding needing aid and attendance are also taken into account.
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.