The Board has reopened the Veteran's claim for service connection for a cervical spine disability and finds that new evidence received since the September 2009 denial is sufficient to reopen the claim. The Veteran experienced symptoms of cervical spine pain and stiffness during service, which he reported not reporting due to concerns about delayed separation. Post-service treatment records show a diagnosis of early degenerative changes in C4-5, C5-6, and C6-7. The Board finds that the Veteran's account of in-service onset is credible and his current disability is related to his service.
The deciding factor: The Veteran provided competent and credible testimony regarding the onset of cervical spine symptoms during service and on a regular basis since separation. His statements are supported by medical evidence from a physician assistant who treated him while deployed, as well as VA treatment records showing early degenerative changes in his cervical spine.
- Claimed conditions
- Cervical spine
- How they argued it
- Reopened with new and material evidence
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- None in this decision
- Decision date
- May 1, 2018
- Citation
- 1826643
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 1826643.
What this means for you
A grant means the Board agreed the veteran was entitled to the benefit. Decisions like this show the kind of evidence and arguments that tend to succeed for claims like it.
What you can do next
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has determined that new and relevant evidence has been received with respect to all the service connection claims on appeal. The claims are being remanded for further development, including obtaining VA examinations and medical opinions to determine the nature and etiology of the claimed conditions.
- Granted
The Board granted service connection for acquired psychiatric disability, cervical spine, lumbar spine disability (including IVDS), right ankle, and right knee based on the evidence of record.
- Dismissed
The Board dismissed the appeal of the Veteran's claim for a total disability rating due to individual unemployability (TDIU) as it was fully addressed in a previous decision.
- Granted
The Veteran's service-connected cervical spine and radiculopathy disabilities render him incapable of performing the activities of daily living such that he requires care or assistance on a regular basis, leading to the grant of special monthly compensation based on aid and attendance.
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