Knee decisions — 2017

The Veteran's claim for an initial rating in excess of 10 percent for patellofemoral syndrome of the right knee was denied by the Board. The decision is based on the finding that there is no instability or subluxation, and the preponderance of evidence does not support a higher evaluation.

The Veteran's right knee disabilities, including DJD and instability, were found to not warrant an increased rating prior to December 12, 2016.

The Board has determined that the Veteran's service-connected conditions do not warrant an increased rating or any other favorable determination.

The Board has determined that the Veteran's claimed right knee disorder, headaches, acquired psychiatric disorder, and sleep disorder are not related to his military service.

The Board has remanded the Veteran's claims due to an inadequate VA medical examination report in December 2007, and a need for a new VA examination with findings adequate for rating purposes.

The Veteran's appeal for increased ratings and TDIU was denied. The Board found that the evidence did not meet the criteria for a higher rating under the applicable diagnostic codes.

The Veteran has withdrawn his appeals regarding the issues of service connection for right knee and right shoulder disorders.

The case is being remanded for additional development, including obtaining VA medical records and scheduling a new VA examination to determine the current nature and severity of the Veteran's left knee disability.

The Board has determined that the Veteran's current patellofemoral pain syndrome began during active service. The claim for left knee and lower leg disorder is granted.

The Veteran's service-connected disabilities do not meet the criteria for financial assistance in the purchase of an automobile or other conveyance and adaptive equipment, or for adaptive equipment only.

The Veteran's palindromic rheumatism was characterized by constitutional manifestations associated with active joint involvement which were totally incapacitating since April 1, 2008. A 100% rating for palindromic rheumatism is granted effective from that date.

The Veteran's appeal is remanded for additional examinations to assess the severity of his service-connected bilateral knee, bilateral shoulder, and low back disabilities. The RO must also obtain all ongoing treatment records.

The Veteran's lumbar spine disability is rated at 40 percent, and his cervical spine strain is rated at 20 percent prior to February 21, 2013. The left knee disability is rated at 10 percent since February 21, 2013.

The Veteran's post-TKR right knee disability is currently rated at 30 percent, but may warrant a higher rating based on chronic residuals consisting of severe painful motion and weakness. The claim to reopen for service connection for a left knee disability remains pending as new evidence has been received that relates the Veteran's current left knee disability to his service-connected right knee disability.

The Board has remanded the Veteran's claims for additional development, including obtaining updated VA treatment records and private medical records. The Veteran is also requested to provide authorization for VA to obtain his outstanding private treatment records.

The Board has remanded the case for further development, including a VA examination to assess the etiology of the Veteran's claimed disabilities and resulting impairments. The appeal is currently in remand status.

The Board has remanded the case due to the need for additional examinations and records, including VA and private treatment records.

The Veteran's left knee DJD is directly related to his military service.,The Veteran's right knee DJD was proximately due to his service-connected left knee DJD.

The Board has granted service connection for the Veteran's right knee and right hip disabilities as secondary to his service-connected bilateral pes planus.

The Board found that the Veteran's preexisting asthma did not permanently worsen in service and denied his claim for service connection. The right knee disability was also found to be a direct result of active service.