The Veteran's service-connected degenerative joint and disc disease, lumbar spine, was denied for increased ratings in excess of 40 percent from May 4, 2007 to May 16, 2012, and in excess of 20 percent from May 17, 2012.
The deciding factor: The Veteran's lumbar spine disability did not meet the criteria for a higher rating as it was not manifested by unfavorable ankylosis or forward flexion limited to 30 degrees or less.
- Claimed conditions
- Degenerative joint and disc disease, lumbar spine
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- None in this decision
- Decision date
- August 10, 2022
- Citation
- 22045251
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 22045251.
What this means for you
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What you can do next
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Denied
The Veteran's claim for a higher rating for his lumbar spine disability from May 4, 2007 to May 16, 2012 was denied. A 40 percent rating has been granted effective August 16, 2023.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has determined that additional examinations are needed to assess the current severity of the Veteran's service-connected disabilities and to determine if they are related to his military service. The case is being remanded for these purposes.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Veteran's claim for a higher rating for his degenerative joint and disc disease, lumbar spine disability is remanded due to the need for additional examination and records review.
- Granted
The Veteran meets the schedular criteria for a total disability rating based on individual unemployability due to service-connected PTSD, which renders him unable to secure or follow a substantially gainful occupation.
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