Peripheral neuropathy decisions — 2010

The Veteran's claims for increased ratings for diabetes mellitus and peripheral neuropathy were denied. The initial 20% rating for diabetes mellitus was granted, but the remaining issues regarding peripheral neuropathy were denied.

The Veteran's claim for TDIU is being remanded due to the need for a new examination and additional VA treatment records.

The Veteran's appeal is being remanded due to a failure to schedule a hearing. The issues include reopening claims for peripheral neuropathy and seeking increased evaluations for diabetes mellitus, as well as evaluating upper extremity conditions.

The Board found that the Veteran's current neurological problems are less likely than not related to his in-service exposure to Agent Orange, and thus denied service connection for a neurological disorder.

The Veteran's claims for multiple myeloma, malignant melanoma, lipoma, an acquired psychiatric disorder (PTSD), peripheral neuropathy or burning and tingling sensations in the feet, and arthritis of the left shoulder, left hip, and cervical spine have been denied as not related to service or herbicide exposure.

The Veteran's PTSD is currently rated at 50 percent, and the Board has determined that a higher rating of 70 percent is warranted from August 1, 2008.

The Veteran's claim for peripheral neuropathy of the upper extremities was denied as no current diagnosis could be established. The claims for hypertension, bilateral hearing loss, tinnitus, and erectile dysfunction are pending further evaluation.

The Board has remanded the case due to incomplete records and the need for further medical opinions regarding the Veteran's claimed conditions.

The Veteran's appeal is being remanded for a VA examination to determine if his disabilities are related to exposure to jet fuel during service.

The Board denied the Veteran's claims for service connection for PTSD, spinal arthritis, bilateral leg arthritis, pes planus, tinnitus, and peripheral neuropathy of the lower extremities due to lack of evidence linking these conditions to his active service.

The Board has remanded the case for further development due to issues related to service connection for upper and lower extremity disabilities, including carpal tunnel syndrome and stroke residuals.

The Veteran's diabetes mellitus was rated at 20 percent prior to November 13, 2007, and increased to 40 percent from that date. The Veteran's peripheral neuropathy of the lower extremities is currently rated at 10 percent each, while his right upper extremity is rated at 40 percent.

The Board denied service connection for bilateral lower extremity peripheral neuropathy and a higher initial evaluation for PTSD. The Veteran does not have current bilateral lower extremity peripheral neuropathy, and his PTSD did not meet the criteria for a disability rating in excess of 50 percent prior to June 21, 2007, or 30 percent thereafter.

The Veteran's service-connected peripheral neuropathy of the right and left lower extremities was granted effective July 28, 2005.

The Veteran's appeals for service connection for peripheral neuropathy of the bilateral upper and lower extremities have been dismissed due to his request for withdrawal. The appeal regarding an initial rating greater than 50 percent for PTSD remains pending.

The Board has remanded the Veteran's claims for service connection due to insufficient evidence and need for further examination.

The Veteran's claims for service connection for demyelinating peripheral neuropathy of the upper and lower extremities, as well as his claim for special monthly compensation based on need for aid and attendance, are being remanded due to additional development needed. The claim for Parkinson's disease is also inextricably intertwined with these issues.

The Board denied the Veteran's claims for service connection for hearing loss in both ears and neuropathy involving the cardiovascular system, finding that his hearing loss in the left ear was pre-existing and not aggravated by service. The Board also found no evidence of a current disability for hearing loss in the right ear or any other service-connected condition related to the Veteran's claimed neuropathy.

The Veteran's claims for service connection are being remanded due to the need for additional development and clarification of his claims, particularly regarding his service treatment records.

The Veteran's bilateral peripheral neuropathy of the lower extremities was not shown to be related to his military service, including exposure to herbicide agents. The Board denied the claim as there is no direct evidence linking the condition to service.