The Veteran's claim for a rating in excess of 60 percent for degenerative joint disease of the lumbar spine with IVDS is denied. The Board found no evidence to support a higher rating based on unfavorable ankylosis, and concluded that the maximum schedular evaluation (60%) was appropriate.
The deciding factor: The Veteran's disability picture does not meet criteria for a higher rating due to unfavorable ankylosis of the entire spine, as determined by the most recent VA examination. The current 60 percent rating represents the maximum available under Diagnostic Code 5243.
- Claimed conditions
- Degenerative Joint Disease of the Lumbar Spine with IVDS
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 60%
- Decision date
- October 21, 2020
- Citation
- 20068205
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.