The Board denied a higher disability rating for the Veteran's lumbar strain with degenerative disc disease, finding that his symptoms did not warrant a rating in excess of 10 percent prior to June 24, 2019 and a 40 percent rating thereafter.
The deciding factor: The evidence showed that the Veteran’s low back pain was intermittent and did not result in limitation of motion more nearly approximating forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine less than 30 degrees or unfavorable ankylosis. The Board found no evidence of neurological impairment associated with his service-connected lumbar spine disability.
- Claimed conditions
- lumbar strain, degenerative disc disease
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 40%
- Decision date
- December 2, 2019
- Citation
- 19190551
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 19190551.
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.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board remands the case for further development, including obtaining new medical opinions and examination reports to address the issues of service connection and increased ratings.
- Granted
The Board granted a 40 percent disability rating for the Veteran's lumbar spine disability since September 26, 2024.
- Dismissed
The appeal to reopen the previous denial of service connection for lumbosacral strain is dismissed as the benefit sought has been fully granted.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board remands the Veteran's claims for increased disability evaluations and TDIU due to missing records.
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