Rheumatoid arthritis decisions — 2013

The Board denied the Veteran's claims for service connection of tendonitis and rheumatoid arthritis of the right arm, wrist, and elbow. The appeals were based on a lack of in-service injury or disease, no continuity of symptoms since separation from service, and no evidence linking current disabilities to service.

The Veteran's combined disability rating has been increased to 80 percent, and several original service connection claims are pending. The TDIU claim is remanded due to the need for a new VA examination considering all of his service-connected disabilities.

The Veteran's unauthorized medical expenses for treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and gout are granted as the closest VA facility did not have an emergency room, and a reasonable lay person would consider the condition emergent.

The Veteran does not have hearing loss, hypertension, rheumatoid arthritis, or a respiratory disability that was caused by his service.

The Veteran's claim for an increased rating for rheumatoid arthritis is being remanded due to the need for additional development, including a VA examination.

The Board denied reopening of the claims for rheumatoid arthritis, right shoulder and neck disabilities, and left index finger disabilities. The Veteran appealed only the denial of reopening of these claims.

The Board has remanded the case for additional evidentiary development, including verification of all periods of Army Reserve service and obtaining complete service personnel records.

The Veteran's PTSD has been rated at 70 percent since January 18, 2008. The evidence does not support a finding of total social and occupational impairment due to PTSD.

The Veteran's rheumatoid arthritis has been rated at 40 percent since October 11, 2011. The rating is based on the current manifestations of his disability and does not involve any presumption or secondary service connection.

The Board has determined that the Veteran's rheumatoid arthritis and lung disorder are not related to his active duty service, including exposure to Agent Orange. The claims for service connection have been denied.

The Board has determined that a remand is necessary to obtain an adequate medical opinion regarding the relationship between the Veteran's service-connected left ankle disability and his claimed rheumatoid arthritis.