The Veteran's thoracolumbar degenerative joint disease with degenerative disc disease and sacroiliac degenerative joint disease results in forward flexion greater than 30 degrees, but no ankylosis. The current rating of 20% is appropriate.,Prior to January 16, 2012, the Veteran's right knee disability resulted in painful motion with extension limited to 10 degrees. Effective March 1, 2013, his status post total knee replacement results in extension to 10 degrees or more and flexion greater than 60 degrees. The current ratings of 10% prior to January 16, 2012, and 30% effective March 1, 2013, are appropriate.
The deciding factor: The Veteran's thoracolumbar spine disability does not meet the criteria for a higher rating under any applicable diagnostic codes due to the presence of ankylosis or limitation of motion that would warrant a higher rating.,The Veteran's right knee disability prior to January 16, 2012, and his status post total knee replacement after March 1, 2013, do not meet the criteria for a higher rating under any applicable diagnostic codes due to the presence of ankylosis or limitation of motion that would warrant a higher rating.
- Claimed conditions
- thoracolumbar degenerative joint disease with degenerative disc disease and sacroiliac degenerative joint disease, degenerative joint disease of the right knee, degenerative joint disease of the left knee
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating
- Not verified here — check the original decision
- Decision date
- October 2, 2018
- Citation
- 18140029
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 18140029.
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).
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