Knee Board decisions

The Veteran's claims for increased ratings for intervertebral disc syndrome and left knee osteoarthritis were denied as the evidence did not show that his symptoms resulted in forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine greater than 30 degrees or a combined range of motion less than 120 degrees.

The Veteran's diagnosed bilateral knee and shoulder disorders are not related to service, as there is no evidence of such conditions during or immediately following his military service. The Board finds that the current diagnoses do not meet the criteria for presumptive service connection under 38 C.F.R. § 3.317.

The Board has determined that additional development is needed before the case can be decided. The Veteran's claims for service connection are being remanded to allow for further examination and opinion.

The Veteran's knee disabilities have been rated based on the criteria for limitation of motion and instability. The initial ratings assigned are in accordance with the severity of his symptoms.,The Veteran has bilateral knee disabilities, including arthritis and instability, which have resulted in limited range of motion and frequent episodes of locking, pain, and effusion.

The Veteran's claims for service connection for vertigo, bilateral hearing loss, PTSD, sleep apnea, left knee disorder, and carpal tunnel syndrome were denied. The Veteran's claim for TDIU was added to the issues on appeal.

The Board has ordered a remand to obtain an adequate VA examination that addresses the Veteran's claim for service connection for a bilateral knee disorder, including secondary to his service-connected bilateral pes planus with degenerative joint disease and bilateral soft tissue impingement of the ankles.

The Veteran's appeal is being remanded for additional development, including a new VA examination and updated VA treatment records. The claim for TDIU is also before the Board.

The Veteran's service-connected left knee disability is currently rated as 10 percent disabling due to arthritis and limitation of motion. A separate 20 percent rating has been granted for the meniscus tear, but no higher ratings are warranted.

The Board granted service connection for DVT and found that the Veteran's left knee disability warranted a separate rating under Diagnostic Code 5259. The Veteran's hypertension appeal was withdrawn prior to decision, and his TDIU claim is pending in the REMAND portion.

The Board has determined that the Veteran's service-connected orthopedic disorders, including low back disorder, left ankle disorder, right knee disorder, left knee disorder, right shoulder disorder, and left elbow disorder are related to his active duty service.

The Veteran's left knee meniscectomy with osteoarthritis is currently rated at 20 percent, effective September 9, 2009. The Veteran's hiatal hernia with reflux esophagitis and duodenal ulcer remains rated at 30 percent.

The Board has decided to remand the Veteran's claims for increased ratings for his service-connected right knee patellofemoral pain syndrome, left knee degenerative joint disease, and lumbosacral strain due to outstanding VA treatment records and potential SSA disability benefits records.

The Board finds that the Veteran's bilateral knee condition is at least in equipoise with service connection, and thus grants service connection for a bilateral knee disability.

The Board has determined that the Veteran is entitled to service connection for tinnitus and an acquired psychiatric disability, including PTSD, depression, and anxiety. The remaining claims are dismissed due to withdrawal of appeal.

The Veteran's claim for service connection for bilateral knee osteoarthritis is being remanded due to the need for a VA examination and further development of his medical records.

The Veteran requested a Board hearing, but withdrew his request in September 2017. The appeal is dismissed as the Veteran has withdrawn it.

The Board has determined that the Veteran's currently diagnosed right and left knee disorders are not related to service, and thus denied his claims for service connection.

The Board finds that the Veteran's current bilateral knee disorders are not shown to be related to his active duty service. The evidence does not show any in-service injury or chronic disability, and there is no clear and unmistakable evidence of pre-existing conditions aggravated by service.

The Veteran's right total knee replacement has been rated at 100 percent effective June 23, 2017. A separate rating of 30 percent for post-total right knee replacement is scheduled to be assigned beginning August 1, 2018.

The Veteran's appeal has been dismissed due to their death. No claims have been decided.