The Veteran's back disability, manifested by a compression fracture of T11-T12 and L1 vertebrae, was rated at 10 percent prior to November 20, 2013, and at 20 percent thereafter. The Board found the evidence against higher ratings due to lack of forward flexion or ankylosis.,The Veteran's hypothyroidism required continuous medication but did not meet criteria for a higher rating as it did not manifest cold intolerance, muscular weakness, cardiovascular involvement (including, but not limited to hypotension, bradycardia, and pericardial effusion), or mental disturbance (including, but not limited to dementia, slowing of thought and depression).
The deciding factor: The Veteran's back disability did not meet criteria for higher ratings due to lack of forward flexion or ankylosis.
- Claimed conditions
- Status Post T11-T12 Compression Fracture and L1 Compression Fracture, Hypothyroidism
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- None in this decision
- Decision date
- September 27, 2023
- Citation
- 23053896
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 23053896.
What this means for you
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- Granted
The Board has granted service connection for Major Depressive Disorder, Hypothyroidism, and Hypertension. The decision is based on direct evidence of these conditions during service.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has remanded the Veteran's claim of entitlement to an initial compensable disability rating for right shin splints due to inadequate examination and failure to address increased symptomatology during flare-ups. The Veteran's service connection for hypothyroidism was granted in full, leaving only her right shin splint issue on appeal.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has determined that the Veteran's PTSD, hypertension, DMII, hypothyroidism, and skin condition are related to his active-duty service. However, further development is needed for the claims of erectile dysfunction and skin condition due to potential exposure to toxins during service.
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