Knee Board decisions

The Veteran's claim for increased ratings for left knee replacement, bilateral hearing loss, and lumbar spine disability is being remanded due to the need for additional development of medical records.

The Veteran's appeal was denied as his conditions did not warrant a rating in excess of 10 percent for the periods prior to February 27, 2006.

The Board found that the Veteran's back disability and bilateral knee disabilities are not related to service or a service-connected condition, and thus denied both claims.

The Board has remanded the case to the VA's Director of Compensation Service for extraschedular consideration of the Veteran's service-connected left knee disability under 38 C.F.R. § 3.321(b)(1). The RO is asked to ensure that the opinion considers the Veteran's complete disability picture with respect to his left knee in determining whether he is entitled to an extraschedular evaluation.

The Board denied service connection for a left knee disability and right knee disability, finding no evidence of an in-service injury or chronic condition that could be linked to the current disabilities.

The Board denied service connection for a sexual dysfunction disorder due to lack of evidence showing its onset during or related to active service. The Veteran's claim was reopened based on new and material evidence, but the Board found no link between his current bilateral elbow, wrist, and knee disorders and his military service.,Service connection was not granted for bilateral elbow, wrist, and knee disorders as there is no evidence of a chronic disability in service or within one year post-service. The Veteran's reported symptoms are not considered credible medical opinions.

The Veteran's hypertension and right knee disability are found to be secondary to his service-connected left knee disability. The Veteran's claim for a higher evaluation for his left knee disability is granted.

The Veteran's tinnitus had its onset in active service and the Board grants service connection for this disability.

The Board has ordered additional development to obtain medical records, verify service dates and duty status, and ensure all claims are properly considered. The case will be remanded for further action.

The Veteran's appeal is being remanded for additional development, including a new VA examination and the provision of a supplemental statement of the case (SOC). The issues include increased ratings for left knee disabilities, service connection for a left hip condition, and TDIU.

The Board has determined that the Veteran's right shoulder disability, tinnitus, and bilateral knee disability are all service-connected. The decision also addresses a clothing allowance or fee dispute issue which is referred to the AOJ.

The Veteran's left knee disability is currently rated at 30 percent, the maximum schedular evaluation available under Diagnostic Code 5260 for limitation of motion. The Board finds no basis to grant a higher rating as there is no evidence of ankylosis or instability.

The Board has remanded the appeal for further development due to inadequate VA examination reports and issues are inextricably intertwined.

The Board has decided that the case should be remanded for additional development, including obtaining medical opinions and VA treatment records.

The Veteran's appeal is being remanded for additional development, including obtaining a VA examination to evaluate the current severity and manifestations of his service-connected degenerative arthritis of the bilateral knee, lumbar spine/L5-S-1, and postoperative right ankle.

The Board has determined that additional development is necessary before the claims can be fully adjudicated.

The Veteran's claims for service connection for sleep apnea, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a bilateral knee disorder, and diabetes mellitus have been granted.

The Veteran's claim for TDIU is being remanded due to the need for additional development, including a Social Industrial Survey and obtaining records of vocational services discussions.

The Veteran's bronchial asthma is rated at 60 percent, and she meets the criteria for a TDIU due to her service-connected disabilities.

The Board has determined that additional development is needed for the Veteran's claims, including obtaining updated medical records and conducting further examinations to address his knee and back conditions. The total disability rating claim is also deferred pending completion of these tasks.