The Board denied a disability rating greater than 30 percent for degenerative disk disease of the cervical spine based on the evidence showing that the Veteran's symptoms did not warrant an increased disability rating.
The deciding factor: The May 2024 VA examination found that the Veteran's forward flexion endpoint after repeated use and during a flare up were both 20 degrees, and there was no evidence of incapacitating episodes or functional limitations equivalent to ankylosis.
- Claimed conditions
- Degenerative disk disease of the cervical spine
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- None in this decision
- Decision date
- April 22, 2025
- Citation
- 25005415
What this means for you
A denial is a starting point, not the end of the road. You can see why this claim fell short — and, if you are still inside the one-year window, the appeal lanes that may remain open to you.
What you can do next
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
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The Board granted service connection for obstructive sleep apnea, effective from the date of the February 2025 rating decision.
- Remanded (sent back)
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- Remanded (sent back)
The Board remands the claim for a rating in excess of 70 percent for PTSD due to an inadequate medical opinion.
- Granted
The Board granted service connection for myasthenia gravis based on the Veteran's exposure to hazardous substances during his military service.
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This is general information, not legal advice. For advice about your own situation, talk to a VA-accredited representative — many help for free.