The Veteran's lumbar degenerative changes were not manifested by forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine less than 61 degrees or combined range of motion less than 121 degrees prior to February 2, 2015. As a result, a rating greater than 10 percent was denied for this period.,Since September 26, 2016, the Veteran's lumbar degenerative changes have not been manifested by forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine to 30 degrees or less or favorable ankylosis of the entire thoracolumbar spine. As a result, a rating greater than 20 percent was denied for this period.,For the period from February 2, 2015 to September 26, 2016, a 20 percent evaluation was granted.
The deciding factor: The VA examination conducted on September 26, 2016 showed forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine limited to 40 degrees. This met the criteria for a 20 percent rating under the General Rating Formula for Diseases and Injuries of the Spine.
- Claimed conditions
- lumbar degenerative changes
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 20%
- Decision date
- January 22, 2018
- Citation
- 1804216
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 1804216.
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
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