The Board denied the Veteran's claims for initial disability ratings in excess of 10 percent for lumbar spine strain and left knee strain, finding that the evidence did not support higher ratings under applicable rating criteria.
The deciding factor: The evidence did not demonstrate forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine greater than 30 degrees or a combined range of motion of less than 120 degrees, which are required for an increased rating in excess of 10 percent for lumbar strain. For left knee strain, there was no limitation to extension limited to 10 degrees or flexion limited to 45 degrees, and the evidence did not show subluxation/instability.
- Claimed conditions
- lumbar spine strain, left knee strain
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 10%
- Decision date
- February 12, 2021
- Citation
- 21008272
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 21008272.
What this means for you
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What you can do next
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Dismissed
The Board dismissed the appeals for service connection of various conditions due to untimely filing of the appeal.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Veteran's claims for service connection for left knee strain, right knee strain, shin splints of the right leg, and shin splints of the left leg are being remanded due to a failure to obtain VA examinations and medical nexus opinions.
- Denied
The Veteran's initial evaluations for left knee strain, limitation of extension and flexion were both denied as the evidence did not show that his symptoms warranted a rating higher than 10 percent.
- Dismissed
The Veteran's appeal was dismissed due to their death during the pendency of the appeal. The Board cannot issue a decision on the merits as they have no jurisdiction.
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