The Veteran's thoracic degenerative joint disease (back disability) is currently rated at 10 percent prior to September 5, 2016 and 20 percent thereafter. The claim for a higher rating is denied.,Since September 5, 2016, the Veteran's right heel scar has been rated at 10 percent. The claim for a higher rating is also denied.
The deciding factor: The evidence does not support an increased disability rating due to lack of probative findings of forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine greater than 30 degrees or favorable ankylosis of the entire thoracolumbar spine, unfavorable ankylosis of the entire thoracolumbar spine, or unfavorable ankylosis of the entire spine.,The evidence does not support a higher rating for the right heel scar due to lack of probative findings of forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine greater than 30 degrees.
- Claimed conditions
- {"condition_name":"Thoracic Degenerative Joint Disease (Back Disability)"}, {"condition_name":"Right Heel Scar"}
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- None in this decision
- Decision date
- October 25, 2019
- Citation
- 19181390
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.