The Veteran's claims for increased evaluations for thoracolumbar spine strain and post-surgical right ankle strain with degenerative arthritis were denied as there is no evidence of forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine to 30 degrees or less, or favorable ankylosis of the entire thoracolumbar spine.
The deciding factor: The Veteran's spinal disorder was found to be manifested by forward flexion greater than 60 degrees but not greater than 85 degrees with muscle spasms and evidence of painful motion prior to March 19, 2019. On/after March 19, 2019, the flexion was noted at 80 degrees with localized tenderness and pain on palpitation.
- Claimed conditions
- Thoracolumbar Spine Strain, Degenerative Arthritis of the Spine
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- None in this decision
- Decision date
- February 2, 2021
- Citation
- 21005626
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 21005626.
What this means for you
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What you can do next
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- Granted
The Veteran's service-connected disabilities, including PTSD, back and foot conditions, precluded him from securing or following a substantially gainful occupation.
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