The Board denied an increased rating for the Veteran's thoracic spine compression, finding that his disability did not meet or approximate the criteria for a higher rating of 40 percent. The evidence showed limited forward flexion to 56 degrees with no additional loss of function on flare-ups.
The deciding factor: The VA examination revealed limited forward flexion but sufficient range of motion for a 20% disability rating, which is already in place.
- Claimed conditions
- thoracic spine compression T-12
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 20%
- Decision date
- December 30, 2020
- Citation
- 20081580
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
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