The Board denied the Veteran's appeal for a rating in excess of 40 percent for his service-connected thoracolumbar spine strain, as the evidence did not support a higher rating.
The deciding factor: The June 2020 examination findings showed forward flexion limited to 30 degrees with no additional limitation due to pain or flare-ups, and there was no evidence of ankylosis or other factors warranting a higher rating.
- Claimed conditions
- thoracolumbar spine strain (low back disability)
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- None in this decision
- Decision date
- May 28, 2025
- Citation
- A25047523
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.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board remands the claim for a low back disability to obtain an adequate medical opinion that considers the Veteran's lay statements and in-service treatment records.
- Granted
The Board granted service connection for obstructive sleep apnea, effective from the date of the February 2025 rating decision.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board remands the claim for a medical examination to determine if the Veteran's current neck strain is related to his in-service activities.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board remands the claim for a rating in excess of 70 percent for PTSD due to an inadequate medical opinion.
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