The Veteran's appeals for increased ratings for intervertebral disc syndrome and hemorrhoids were denied. The rating for IVDS prior to June 17, 2019 was denied as the evidence did not show sufficient limitation of motion or muscle spasms to warrant a higher rating. The rating for IVDS since June 17, 2019 was also denied due to lack of sufficient limitation of flexion. A compensable rating for hemorrhoids was denied because there was no evidence of large or thrombotic hemorrhoids with frequent recurrences.
The deciding factor: The medical evidence did not show sufficient impairment in range of motion or other criteria required for higher ratings, and the Veteran's complaints were considered subjective and less persuasive than objective medical findings.
- Claimed conditions
- Intervertebral disc syndrome (IVDS), Hemorrhoids
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- None in this decision
- Decision date
- June 22, 2022
- Citation
- 22036093
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 22036093.
What this means for you
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Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Dismissed
The Veteran withdrew his appeal for an increased evaluation of his hemorrhoids, so the case is dismissed.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Veteran's claim for a higher rating for intervertebral disc syndrome (IVDS) is being remanded due to an error in the initial decision process. The AOJ needs to provide notice of his right to a hearing before issuing a final decision.
- Denied
The Veteran's claim for a compensable rating for her service-connected hemorrhoids was denied as the evidence did not show large or thrombotic, irreducible hemorrhoids with excessive redundant tissue, evidencing frequent recurrence.
- Dismissed
The Veteran withdrew his appeal of the claims for a total disability rating based on individual unemployability and whether proposed reductions in ratings for service-connected intervertebral disc syndrome, radiculopathy of the right lower extremity, and radiculopathy of the left lower extremities were proper. The appeals are dismissed.
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