The Board granted service connection for a lumbar spine disability, diagnosed as degenerative disc disease and degenerative joint disease, intervertebral disc syndrome (IVDS), and lumbosacral strain, based on the Veteran's consistent account of having low back problems since service.

The deciding factor: The Board found that all three elements of direct service connection were established by the competent and credible lay and medical evidence of record, including a current diagnosis, an in-service event, and continuation of symptomatology.

Claimed conditions

degenerative disc disease, degenerative joint disease, intervertebral disc syndrome (IVDS), lumbosacral strain

How they argued it

Direct service connection

Exposure basis

None

Rating assigned

100%

Decision date

November 14, 2025

Citation

25013987

Want to see how appeals like this one tend to go? Appeals like mine