The Veteran's initial ratings for thoracolumbar spine scoliosis with osteoarthritis and left shoulder bursitis prior to June 21, 2023 were denied as his conditions did not meet the criteria for higher ratings under the applicable rating schedule.
The deciding factor: The VA examinations conducted during the period on appeal did not show limitation of motion or muscle spasm/guarding productive of an abnormal gait or spinal contour sufficient to warrant a higher rating, and the Veteran's symptoms were primarily chronic pain with accompanying weakness and fatigability.
- Claimed conditions
- Thoracolumbar spine scoliosis with osteoarthritis, Left shoulder bursitis
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 10%
- Decision date
- March 28, 2024
- Citation
- 24013136
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 24013136.
What this means for you
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Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Denied
The Board denied the veteran's claims for increased ratings and service connection, except for bilateral carpal tunnel syndrome which was granted.
- Denied
The Veteran's initial rating for gastritis prior to May 26, 2021 is denied as the symptoms do not meet the criteria for a higher rating.,The Veteran's initial rating for gastritis from May 26, 2021 is denied as his symptoms are consistent with a moderate gastric ulcer but do not warrant a higher rating.
- Denied
The Veteran's request for increased ratings for various service-connected conditions was denied. The current disability ratings are 10% for right peroneal nerve palsy, 30% for right carpal tunnel syndrome from July 10, 2019 to present, and 20% for left carpal tunnel syndrome since June 12, 2011. The Veteran's service-connected conditions are rated based on their direct effects without any presumption or secondary linkage.
- Granted
The Board has granted service connection for left shoulder bursitis, right hip bursitis, and left knee patellofemoral pain syndrome. However, the effective date for the award of service connection for degenerative disc disease of the lumbar spine is denied.
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