The Veteran's increased rating for thoracic strain with lumbar spondylosis is granted, as his disability picture more nearly approximates the criteria for a 40 percent rating.
The deciding factor: The VA examination results showed that the Veteran had forward flexion to 50 degrees and did not conduct the exam during flare-ups or test for additional functional loss with repetitive use over time, warranting a 40 percent rating throughout the appeal.
- Claimed conditions
- Thoracic strain, Lumbar spondylosis
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating
- Not verified here — check the original decision
- Decision date
- March 10, 2021
- Citation
- 21013895
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. Read the original VA decision (opens in a new tab) using citation 21013895.
What this means for you
A grant means the Board allowed the benefit or issue identified in this decision. Review the original order: other issues in the same appeal may have a different outcome, and this decision does not predict another claim.
What you can do next
Use your own notice and decision stage. A remanded issue is not a final court-appealable denial. VA review guidance and CAVC filing instructions (U.S. federal; reviewed October 7, 2026).
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Whole decision: Denied
The Board has denied the Veteran's claim for a total disability rating based upon individual unemployability due to service-connected disabilities (TDIU) as there is no evidence that he is unable to secure or follow substantially gainful employment due to his service-connected conditions.
- Whole decision: Granted
The Veteran's service-connected conditions leave her in need of regular aid and attendance, which is granted for special monthly compensation (SMC) based on the need for regular aid and attendance.
- Whole decision: Granted
The Board has granted service connection for the Veteran's back disability, cervical strain, right lower extremity radiculopathy, and left lower extremity radiculopathy as secondary to her now service-connected back disability. The decision is based on credible statements of the Veteran regarding continuous symptoms since service and medical opinions supporting a nexus between current disabilities and service.
- Whole decision: Granted
The Veteran's service-connected disabilities combine to preclude substantially gainful employment, and the Board has granted a TDIU.
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