The Veteran's claim for a higher rating for thoracolumbar scoliosis with degenerative changes of the thoracic spine was denied as his disability did not meet the criteria for a rating in excess of 10 percent prior to January 25, 2017, and a rating in excess of 20 percent thereafter.
The deciding factor: The Veteran's disability did not result in incapacitating episodes lasting two to four weeks or ankylosis of the thoracolumbar spine.
- Claimed conditions
- thoracolumbar scoliosis with degenerative changes of the thoracic spine
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 20%
- Decision date
- January 26, 2022
- Citation
- 22004220
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 22004220.
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.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has remanded the case due to conflicting evidence regarding radiculopathy and a need for additional VA medical opinions on range of motion.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has decided that a higher evaluation for thoracolumbar scoliosis with degenerative changes of the thoracic spine is remanded due to the need for an EMG test.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Veteran's claim for a higher evaluation for his thoracolumbar scoliosis with degenerative changes of the thoracic spine is being remanded due to incomplete records and further development is needed.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Veteran's appeal is being remanded for further development, including a VA examination to assess the severity of his thoracolumbar spine disability and any associated neurological conditions.
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