The Board denied service connection for degenerative joint and disc disease of the lumbar spine, finding that there is no evidence to support a link between the current condition and service.
The deciding factor: The VA examiners found that the Veteran's current low back disability was less likely than not related to his in-service injury or event.
- Claimed conditions
- degenerative joint and disc disease of the lumbar spine, lower back injury
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating
- Not verified here — check the original decision
- Decision date
- August 23, 2018
- Citation
- 18129046
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 18129046.
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
For the period prior to October 29, 2021, SMC under 38 U.S.C. § 1114(s) based on housebound status is denied.,For the entire appeal period, SMC under 38 U.S.C. § 1114(l) based on need of regular aid and attendance is granted.
- Whole decision: Denied
The Veteran's claim for service connection for anxiety was denied as the evidence did not support a diagnosis of an anxiety disorder.,The Veteran's claim for increased rating for depression was denied because his symptoms were consistent with those already covered by his existing service-connected disability.
- Whole decision: Remanded (sent back)
The Board has determined that the AOJ did not obtain all relevant records and medical opinions, leading to remand for further development.
- Whole decision: Granted
The Board has granted service connection for degenerative joint and disc disease of the lumbar spine, finding that the Veteran's pain in his back after carrying a rucksack during service is related to his current condition.
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