The Veteran's initial higher rating for degenerative arthritis of the lumbar spine is denied, and he is granted initial ratings of 40% each for peripheral neuropathy affecting both lower extremities.
The deciding factor: The VA examination report did not show forward flexion to 30 degrees or less in the thoracolumbar spine, which would be required for a higher rating under Diagnostic Code 5242.
- Claimed conditions
- Degenerative arthritis of lumbar spine
- How they argued it
- Secondary to another service-connected condition
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 20%
- Decision date
- April 1, 2026
- Citation
- A26029620
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 A26029620.
What this means for you
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What you can do next
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Denied
The Board denied the Veteran's claim for a rating in excess of 50 percent for degenerative arthritis of the lumbar spine, as the evidence did not support a higher rating.
- Granted
The Veteran's disability ratings for degenerative arthritis of the lumbar spine and tension headaches were improperly reduced. The Board has reinstated these ratings to their original levels, effective August 1, 2022.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has withdrawn the issue of entitlement to a higher initial evaluation for degenerative arthritis of lumbar spine. The issue of entitlement to a higher initial evaluation for right hip strain is remanded due to lack of recent VA examination.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Veteran's claims for increased ratings and service connection are being remanded due to the need for additional examinations and opinions.
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