Peripheral neuropathy decisions — 2017

The Veteran has withdrawn his appeals regarding the ratings for atherosclerotic heart disease, diabetes mellitus, type II, peripheral neuropathy of the upper and lower extremities, bilateral diabetic retinopathy and left macular edema, and hypertension.

The Veteran's PTSD is currently rated at 30 percent, and the Board has determined that a higher rating of 50 percent is warranted.,The Veteran's peripheral neuropathy of the bilateral lower extremities is currently rated at 20 percent each for the right and left lower extremities. The Board has determined that a higher rating is not warranted.

The Veteran's claim for service connection for PTSD was granted with an effective date of July 28, 2010. The VA is also required to provide a new examination and opinion regarding the severity and onset of his left upper extremity mononeuropathy and left elbow disability due to their complexity and impact on employment.

The RO has granted increased ratings for peripheral neuropathy of the left and right lower extremities to 20 percent effective September 1, 2015.

The Veteran's appeals for increased ratings were withdrawn prior to the Board's decision. The diabetes mellitus rating remains at 40 percent, and hypertension is rated at 10 percent.

The Veteran's claims for service connection for various disabilities have been granted, with effective dates set at February 17, 2009.,Effective from February 17, 2009, the Veteran is now entitled to VA benefits for her claimed conditions.

The Veteran's appeal has been withdrawn due to his authorized representative requesting the withdrawal of the appeal.

The Board denied the Veteran's claims for service connection for unspecified immunological disability, peripheral neuropathy, thyroid disorder, sciatica, and residuals of cold weather exposure. The evidence did not establish a direct link between these conditions and active service.

The Veteran's claim for increased ratings for left ulnar neuropathy and mild degenerative disc disease, lumbar spine, L5-S1 was denied. The TDIU claim is also denied as it is inextricably intertwined with the other claims.