The Veteran's claim for an increased evaluation in excess of 20 percent for a thoracolumbar spine strain with scoliosis prior to December 18, 2019, and in excess of 40 percent thereafter was denied. The evidence did not meet the criteria for higher ratings at any time during the appeal period.
The deciding factor: The evidence did not show forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine to 30 degrees or less or unfavorable ankylosis of the entire thoracolumbar spine, which would warrant a higher rating.
- Claimed conditions
- Thoracolumbar spine strain, Scoliosis
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 40%
- Decision date
- May 4, 2021
- Citation
- 21026943
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 21026943.
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.
- Denied
The Veteran's initial rating for thoracolumbar spine strain is denied, with a current rating of 20 percent. The claim for higher staged ratings for cervical spine spondylosis remains pending.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has determined that the Veteran's claims for service connection for neck and back disabilities should be remanded due to insufficient evidence regarding the etiology of his conditions.
- Denied
The Veteran's claim for an earlier effective date for a 20 percent rating for her back disability is denied as there is no evidence of increased severity prior to the May 9, 2024 effective date.
- Dismissed
The Board has dismissed the Veteran's claims for service connection and increased ratings due to his valid opt-in of specific issues into the modernized review system.
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