The Veteran's claims for increased ratings for thoracolumbar degenerative joint disease, left shoulder sprain, and right shoulder sprain were denied as the evidence did not meet the criteria for a higher rating under applicable VA regulations.
The deciding factor: The medical evidence showed that the Veteran’s conditions did not warrant a higher rating based on limitation of motion or other factors considered in evaluating disabilities of the musculoskeletal system.
- Claimed conditions
- thoracolumbar degenerative joint disease (DJD), left shoulder sprain, right shoulder sprain
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- None in this decision
- Decision date
- November 4, 2020
- Citation
- 20071177
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 20071177.
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.
- Dismissed
The Veteran's appeals for higher initial ratings and service connection were dismissed due to their death. The claims will be dismissed without prejudice.
- Dismissed
The Veteran's appeal for earlier effective dates for service connection of various conditions has been dismissed as the claims are final due to lack of timely appeal within one year of the October 2009 rating decision.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has remanded the case due to inadequate VA examination and opinion, requiring a new examination and opinion to determine if the Veteran's right shoulder disability is related to service.
- Granted
The Board has determined that the Veteran's right shoulder disability had its onset during service and is related to his active duty, granting service connection for this condition.
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