The Veteran's claim for increased ratings for myofascial pain syndrome of the lumbar spine with degenerative disc disease was denied. The rating prior to August 28, 2006 is denied as it does not meet the criteria for a higher rating. For the period from August 28, 2006 onwards, the Veteran's claim is also denied as there are no incapacitating episodes of significant duration and no evidence of ankylosis.
The deciding factor: The Veteran's disability did not meet the criteria for a higher rating based on limitation of motion or other symptoms. There were no incapacitating episodes of intervertebral disc syndrome during the appeal period, which would have allowed for a higher rating under DC 5243.
- Claimed conditions
- myofascial pain syndrome of the lumbar spine with degenerative disc disease
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 40%
- Decision date
- November 21, 2019
- Citation
- 19188098
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 19188098.
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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