The reduction from a 60 percent rating to a 20 percent rating for cervical arthritis was improper, and the 60 percent rating is restored. The Veteran's service-connected cervical arthritis with left upper extremity radiculopathy continues to meet criteria for a TDIU.
The deciding factor: The evidence did not show sustained improvement in the Veteran’s cervical arthritis under ordinary conditions of work and life, but demonstrated actual improvement in his ability to function.
- Claimed conditions
- cervical arthritis, degenerative disc disease with pars defect
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 20%
- Decision date
- November 12, 2020
- Citation
- A20016837
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. Read the original VA decision (opens in a new tab) using citation A20016837.
What this means for you
A remand sends an issue back for more development, often a new examination or missing records. It does not award the benefit or decide the final outcome. The original decision explains the additional work ordered.
What you can do next
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Dismissed
The Veteran's appeal for service connection of cervical arthritis has been dismissed due to his request for withdrawal.
- Granted
The Veteran's cervical arthritis is granted as service connected due to neck pain that began during active duty.,Service connection for emphysema with COPD is granted based on conceded garrison exposures, including jet fuel.
- Dismissed
The appeal for service connection for blepharitis, cervical arthritis, and irritable bowel syndrome is dismissed due to an impermissible concurrent election.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has remanded the case due to incomplete information and need for further examination regarding the Veteran's major depressive disorder, occupational functioning, and schizoaffective disorder diagnosis.
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