The Veteran's cervical spine strain with degenerative changes and radiculopathy is granted a 20% rating prior to December 3, 2019. Since then, the claim for a higher rating remains denied. The lumbar spine strain with degenerative changes is also granted a 20% rating since December 3, 2019. Additionally, entitlement to TDIU based on service-connected disabilities is granted.
The deciding factor: The VA examiners found that the Veteran's cervical and lumbar spine conditions did not meet criteria for higher ratings under Diagnostic Code 5242 due to limitations in range of motion and functional impairment but did not result in ankylosis or IVDS.
- Claimed conditions
- Cervical spine strain with degenerative changes, Lumbar spine strain with degenerative changes
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 20%
- Decision date
- August 31, 2023
- Citation
- 23048112
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 23048112.
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.
- Denied
The Veteran's degenerative changes of the left knee, right knee, lumbar spine strain, and right shoulder sprain have all been rated at 10 percent since November 2000. The Board has denied increased ratings for each condition.,The Veteran requested a new VA examination in July 2007 to determine if his conditions warranted higher ratings. However, the RO continued the current ratings of 10 percent without scheduling an examination.
- Granted
The Veteran's service-connected disabilities, including coronary artery disease, hypertension, and multiple musculoskeletal conditions, have rendered him unable to secure or follow a substantially gainful occupation since November 6, 2013. Additionally, his need for aid and attendance of another person due to his physical limitations has been established.
- Denied
The Veteran's claims for increased ratings and service connection were denied. The Board found that the evidence did not meet the criteria for an initial evaluation in excess of 20 percent for thoracolumbar strain with degenerative arthritis or cervical spine strain with degenerative changes.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Veteran's appeal is being remanded for additional development, including a new VA examination to assess the severity of his service-connected cervical spine, lumbar spine, and bilateral shoulder disabilities.
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