The Veteran's lumbar spine degenerative joint disease has been rated at 20 percent, the maximum rating available under VA regulations. The Board finds that his disability does not warrant a higher evaluation as it does not meet the criteria for an increased rating.
The deciding factor: The Veteran’s lumbar spine DJD results in forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine greater than 30 degrees but not greater than 60 degrees, which is within the range required for a 20 percent evaluation under Diagnostic Code 5242. There is no evidence of unfavorable ankylosis or other factors that would warrant a higher rating.
- Claimed conditions
- Degenerative Joint Disease (lumbar spine)
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 20%
- Decision date
- October 10, 2019
- Citation
- 19178093
What this means for you
A denial is a starting point, not the end of the road. You can see why this claim fell short — and, if you are still inside the one-year window, the appeal lanes that may remain open to you.
What you can do next
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