The Veteran's back disability was initially rated at 40 percent prior to May 2, 2017. From that date onwards, the rating was increased to 50 percent due to ankylosis of the entire thoracolumbar spine.
The deciding factor: The March 2021 VA examination confirmed unfavorable ankylosis of the entire thoracolumbar spine from May 2, 2017 onwards, which is consistent with the Veteran's symptoms and medical history.
- Claimed conditions
- spondylolysis L5-S1, disc herniation L2-3
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 40%
- Decision date
- November 2, 2021
- Citation
- 21066794
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 21066794.
What this means for you
A grant means the Board agreed the veteran was entitled to the benefit. Decisions like this show the kind of evidence and arguments that tend to succeed for claims like it.
What you can do next
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Granted
The Board has reopened the Veteran's claim of service connection for a low back disability, specifically spondylolysis L5-S1. The decision is granted as new and material evidence has been received that relates to an unestablished fact necessary to substantiate the claim.
- Denied
The Board denied a rating higher than 40 percent for the Veteran's low back disability on an extraschedular basis, finding that the available schedular ratings adequately described her disability picture.
- Granted
The Board has determined that the Veteran's low back disability, including spondylolysis L5-S1, degenerative joint disease, degenerative disc disease, spondylolisthesis, and scoliosis, is related to his active service. The condition was noted upon entry into service and is considered a new and material issue due to the reopening of the claim based on additional evidence.
- Granted
The veteran's low back disability, characterized by spondylolysis L5-S1 and bilateral sciatica, has been rated at 20 percent since December 18, 2000. The RO increased the rating to reflect the revised criteria effective September 23, 2002.
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