The Veteran's neck disability and GERD were evaluated under the General Rating Formula for Diseases and Injuries of the Spine, but no IVDS was found. The VA examiners noted that the Veteran had DDD in his cervical spine without evidence of IVDS.
The deciding factor: The VA examiners did not find any IVDS or incapacitating episodes related to the Veteran's neck disability, which prevented a higher rating under DC 5243-5242. The GERD was evaluated based on its manifestations and symptoms, but no additional functional loss due to pain or weakness was noted.
- Claimed conditions
- Cervical spine degenerative disc disease (neck disability), Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- None in this decision
- Decision date
- July 19, 2017
- Citation
- 1728111
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 1728111.
What this means for you
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What you can do next
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
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The Veteran's appeal for service connection for Dupuytren's contracture of the left hand, right hand, and GERD is remanded due to inadequate VA examination opinions and failure to consider toxic exposure risk activities during service.
- Denied
The Veteran's GERD is currently rated at 10 percent disabling, but the Board found that his symptoms do not meet or approximate the criteria for a higher rating.
- Granted
The Board has granted service connection for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), finding that both conditions are secondary to the Veteran's service-connected lower back condition and sinusitis, respectively.
- Denied
The Board has denied service connection for bladder cancer, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) as there is no evidence to support a link between these conditions and the Veteran's military service.
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