The Veteran's right shoulder strain is currently rated at 20 percent prior to November 19, 2017 and denied for higher ratings thereafter.,The Veteran's lumbar spine strain is currently rated at 10 percent prior to October 31, 2016 and granted a 20 percent rating from October 31, 2016 to November 19, 2017. A higher rating thereafter is denied.
The deciding factor: The medical evidence does not show that the Veteran's right shoulder strain has been limited to midway between his side and shoulder level, as required by the criteria for a 30 percent rating under DC 5201.
- Claimed conditions
- {"condition_name":"Right Shoulder Strain"}, {"condition_name":"Lumbar Spine Strain"}
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 20%
- Decision date
- October 23, 2019
- Citation
- 19180519
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
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Granted
The Board granted service connection for obstructive sleep apnea, effective from the date of the February 2025 rating decision.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board remands the claim for a medical examination to determine if the Veteran's current neck strain is related to his in-service activities.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board remands the claim for a rating in excess of 70 percent for PTSD due to an inadequate medical opinion.
- Granted
The Board granted service connection for myasthenia gravis based on the Veteran's exposure to hazardous substances during his military service.
We are not the VA. Veterans’ Rights is an independent resource built for veterans. We are not the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, not part of the government, and not endorsed by any government agency.
This is general information, not legal advice. For advice about your own situation, talk to a VA-accredited representative — many help for free.