The Veteran's claims for service connection for DM and a heart disability were not addressed. The initial rating in excess of 10 percent for IVDS with degenerative arthritis changes (prior to September 28, 2013) was denied. The higher rating in excess of 20 percent for IVDS with degenerative arthritis changes (beginning on September 28, 2013) was also denied.
The deciding factor: The Veteran's IVDS did not meet the criteria for a higher rating under any applicable diagnostic codes due to lack of forward flexion limited to 60 degrees or less and/or combined range of motion limited to 120 degrees or less, muscle spasms or guarding severe enough to result in an abnormal gait or spinal contour.
- Claimed conditions
- Diabetes Mellitus, Heart Disability, IVDS (Degenerative Arthritis Changes)
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating
- Not verified here — check the original decision
- Decision date
- June 15, 2017
- Citation
- 1722208
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. Read the original VA decision (opens in a new tab) using citation 1722208.
What this means for you
A final Board denial may be appealed to the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims, generally within 120 days of the Board mailing date. A Supplemental Claim with new and relevant evidence is a separate option. Another Higher-Level Review of the Board decision is not available. Check your own notice: this historical decision does not set your deadline.
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: Granted
The Veteran's heart disability has been rated at 100% from September 12, 2022 to August 18, 2023. He is also eligible for special monthly compensation and Dependents' Educational Assistance during this period.
- Whole decision: Granted
The Veteran's appeal was granted for various disabilities, including service connection for depressive disorder and increased evaluations for diabetic peripheral neuropathy affecting multiple nerve groups. A SMC based on need for aid and attendance was also awarded.
- Whole decision: Denied
The Veteran's heart disability is currently rated at 60 percent from February 24, 2023.,The effective date for the grant of TDIU was set to February 24, 2023.
- Whole decision: Remanded (sent back)
The Veteran's claims for service connection for hypertension and diabetes are being remanded due to the need for a VA examination to determine the etiology of these conditions.
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