The Veteran's claim for a higher rating for his back disability and TDIU was denied. The Board found that the evidence did not support an increased rating under DC 5237, as it did not meet the criteria for a higher rating based on limitation of motion. For TDIU, the combined schedular rating exceeded 70%, but the Veteran's employment status and education were considered in determining his unemployability.
The deciding factor: The evidence did not show that the Veteran's back disability met or approximated the criteria for a higher evaluation under DC 5237. The Board found no persuasive medical evidence showing forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine greater than 30 degrees but not greater than 60 degrees, or combined range of motion not greater than 120 degrees.
- Claimed conditions
- chronic thoracolumbar strain (back disability)
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 10%
- Decision date
- October 19, 2023
- Citation
- 23056994
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 23056994.
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