The Veteran's service-connected thoracolumbar degenerative arthritis, IVDS, and lumbar spondylosis status post surgery is rated at 10 percent prior to April 26, 2019. The evidence does not meet the criteria for a higher rating under the General Rating Formula for Diseases and Injuries of the Spine.
The deciding factor: The Veteran's forward flexion was greater than 30 degrees but less than or equal to 60 degrees, combined range of motion did not exceed 120 degrees, and there were no findings of muscle spasms or guarding severe enough to result in an abnormal gait or spinal contour.
- Claimed conditions
- Thoracolumbar degenerative arthritis, IVDS (Intervertebral Disc Syndrome), Lumbar spondylosis status post surgery
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 10%
- Decision date
- February 8, 2023
- Citation
- 23008329
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 23008329.
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.
- Dismissed
The Veteran's appeal for service connection regarding cervical strain with IVDS, spinal fusion, and spinal stenosis was dismissed because the Veteran died during the pendency of the appeal.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has determined that new and relevant evidence was submitted to warrant readjudication of the Veteran's claims for service connection for a back disability, including degenerative arthritis and IVDS, as well as bilateral pes planus. The claims are now remanded for further development.
- Denied
The Veteran's lumbosacral strain with degenerative arthritis, herniated disc, IVDS and spinal stenosis is rated at 40 percent since August 19, 2020. The appeal period did not show unfavorable ankylosis or incapacitating episodes of IVDS.
- Granted
The Veteran's lumbar spine disability is rated at 40 percent from February 5, 2025 and granted a TDIU effective October 16, 2023. The rating for IVDS and lumbar spine degenerative arthritis with spondylosis remains at 20 percent from December 12, 2022 to April 6, 2024.
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