The Veteran's initial 30 percent rating for cervical spondylosis status post fusion is granted. Ratings for right upper extremity cervical radiculopathy are denied for the periods specified, and a 50 percent rating is granted from May 14, 2019 onwards.
The deciding factor: The most recent examination showed forward flexion limited to 15 degrees following repetitive motion, which approximates ankylosis of the cervical spine. The Veteran's symptoms do not result in complete fixation or inability to move the spine.
- Claimed conditions
- Cervical spondylosis status post fusion, Right upper extremity cervical radiculopathy, Left upper extremity cervical radiculopathy
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 30%
- Decision date
- July 12, 2023
- Citation
- 23038581
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 23038581.
What this means for you
A grant means the Board agreed the veteran was entitled to the benefit. Decisions like this show the kind of evidence and arguments that tend to succeed for claims like it.
What you can do next
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Granted
The Veteran's cervical spine disability, including right and left upper extremity radiculopathies, is granted as service connected. The issues of right and left upper extremity radiculopathy are remanded for further examination.
- Granted
The Board has granted service connection for left upper extremity cervical radiculopathy as secondary to a service-connected cervical spine disability.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has determined that new and relevant evidence has been received to support the Veteran's claims for service connection, but the claims are being remanded due to deficiencies in the medical opinions provided.
- Partly granted
The Board granted an increased initial rating of 20 percent for thoracic muscle strain but denied a higher rating. The claim for an initial rating in excess of 20 percent for left upper extremity cervical radiculopathy was denied.
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