Knee decisions — 2011

The Veteran's service-connected post-operative internal derangement of the right knee is not manifested by severe recurrent subluxation and/or lateral instability, warranting a rating no higher than 20 percent. The criteria for a rating in excess of 10 percent are met for arthritis of the right knee associated with post-operative internal derangement of the right knee from July 2, 2008 to October 31, 2008.

The Veteran's service-connected disabilities, which include major depressive disorder and multiple joint issues, have rendered him unable to secure or follow a substantially gainful occupation as of June 1, 2008. The Board has determined that he meets the criteria for a TDIU effective from this date.

The Veteran's claims for higher ratings were denied, with the exception of a temporary total disability rating granted in August 2008. The remaining claims are still pending and have been remanded to the RO.

The Board has determined that the Veteran's left knee strain with degenerative joint disease, right knee strain with degenerative joint disease, bilateral hip strains, and arthritis of the back were not incurred or aggravated during service. The claims are denied.

The Board denied service connection for a left knee disability, sling palsy, and residuals of trauma to the left side of the waist due to lack of evidence linking these conditions to service or any in-service injury.

The Veteran's claim of service connection for a right knee disability is being remanded due to the need for additional development, including scheduling a VA examination.

The Veteran's claimed bilateral knee disability was not diagnosed until many years after service, and there is no medical evidence linking the current condition to his active duty service. The claim for service connection is denied.

The Board found that the Veteran's current arthritis of the left knee is not related to his active service and denied the claim.