For the initial rating period from August 24, 2016 to November 24, 2021, a higher initial rating of 20 percent for degenerative disc and joint disease of the thoracolumbar spine (lumbar spine disability) is granted.,For the initial rating period from November 24, 2021 forward, a higher initial rating in excess of 20 percent for the lumbar spine disability is denied.
The deciding factor: The evidence shows that the Veteran's lumbar spine disability has more nearly approximated pain and limitation of forward flexion greater than 30 degrees without ankylosis, limitation of forward flexion to 30 degrees or less, or incapacitating episodes requiring physician ordered bed rest having a total duration of at least four weeks during a 12-month period.
- Claimed conditions
- Degenerative disc and joint disease of the thoracolumbar spine (lumbar spine disability)
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 20%
- Decision date
- May 10, 2022
- Citation
- 22027650
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 22027650.
What this means for you
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What you can do next
Related decisions
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- Denied
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- Denied
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- Denied
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