The Board denied a rating in excess of 20 percent for the Veteran's lumbosacral spondylosis, finding that the evidence did not show forward flexion of less than 30 degrees or ankylosis.
The deciding factor: The VA examinations showed forward flexion at 40-50 degrees with no additional loss after repetitive use testing. The Veteran's symptoms were consistent with a 20 percent rating based on the degree of forward flexion, which was 35 degrees during flare-ups.
- Claimed conditions
- lumbosacral spondylosis
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 20%
- Decision date
- August 24, 2020
- Citation
- 20055626
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 20055626.
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 has determined that the claim for eligibility to enroll in the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC) is remanded due to insufficient evidence and lack of proper notice. The Veteran's service-connected disabilities do not result in a need for personal care services, but this determination was made without adequate medical justification or explanation.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Veteran's lumbosacral spondylosis is currently rated at 10 percent and the Board has determined that a remand is necessary to correct any errors in the evaluation process.,The Veteran's migraine headaches are currently rated at 30 percent, but the Board finds that a higher rating of 50 percent is warranted based on the severity of his symptoms.
- Dismissed
The appeal for service connection for a lumbar spine disorder, namely lumbosacral spondylosis, was dismissed due to the Veteran's concurrent election of available Appeals Modernization Act review options.
- Granted
Service connection is granted for lumbosacral spondylosis, but the claim of service connection for erectile dysfunction is remanded due to insufficient evidence.
Free starter guide for your own claim
Reading this because you were denied or under-rated? Get the plain-English next steps — your appeal options, the deadline that protects you, and how appeals like yours turn out. One email, no spam.
We will only use this to send the guide. No spam, unsubscribe any time. We never sell your information.
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.