The Veteran's low back disability, characterized by degenerative joint disease and pain, was initially rated at 10 percent prior to March 29, 2010. The current rating of 10 percent is maintained as the evidence does not meet criteria for a higher evaluation.
The deciding factor: The evidence shows that during the period prior to March 29, 2010, the Veteran's low back disability was manifested by DJD and pain, with forward flexion limited to 45 degrees but without any incapacitating episodes. The current range of motion is sufficient for a 10 percent rating.
- Claimed conditions
- Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD) of the lumbar spine, Pain
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating
- Not verified here — check the original decision
- Decision date
- August 7, 2015
- Citation
- 1533834
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. Search VA.gov for the original decision (opens in a new tab) using citation 1533834.
What this means for you
A grant means the Board allowed the benefit or issue identified in this decision. Review the original order: other issues in the same appeal may have a different outcome, and this decision does not predict another claim.
What you can do next
Use your own notice and decision stage. A remanded issue is not a final court-appealable denial. VA review guidance and CAVC filing instructions (U.S. federal; reviewed October 7, 2026).
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Whole decision: Denied
The Veteran's eligibility to enroll in the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC) is denied because he does not require personal care services due to an inability to perform ADLs or a need for supervision, protection, or instruction. The Board found that the evidence shows the Veteran is generally independent and able to complete his ADLs without hands-on assistance.
- Whole decision: Remanded (sent back)
The Board has determined that there was a pre-decisional duty to assist error and the case is being remanded for an adequate medical decision regarding eligibility for PCAFC benefits.
- Whole decision: Remanded (sent back)
The Board remands the claims for service connection for a right lower extremity disability and left upper extremity disability to better reflect the scope of the claims.
- Whole decision: Partly granted
The Board denied increased ratings for the Veteran's degenerative joint disease of the lumbar spine, right and left lower extremity radiculopathy, and depressive disorder. However, it granted a total disability rating based on unemployability (TDIU) and special monthly compensation at the housebound rate.
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