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Denied

The Veteran's claim for an initial disability rating in excess of 40 percent for degenerative disc disease of the thoracic and lumbar spine has been denied. The effective dates for separate ratings of 20 percent for partial transverse myelitis and radiculopathy of the right and left lower extremities have also been granted.

The deciding factor: The Veteran's degenerative disc disease did not meet criteria for a higher rating due to unfavorable ankylosis or other specific findings that would warrant a higher evaluation under VA regulations.

Claimed conditions
Degenerative Disc Disease of the Thoracic and Lumbar Spine
How they argued it
Direct service connection
Exposure basis
None
Rating assigned
40%
Decision date
February 1, 2023
Citation
23006453

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 23006453.

What this means for you

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