Shoulder decisions — 2005

The Board denied the veteran's claims for separate schedular 10 percent disability ratings for bilateral tinnitus and service connection for left shoulder, right shoulder, left ankle, and right ankle conditions. The appeal is based on a direct service connection theory.

The Board found that the veteran's neck disorder, left shoulder disorder, and bronchitis are not service-connected. The evidence did not establish a direct link between these conditions and her military service.

The Board found that the veteran's service-connected recurrent dislocation of the left shoulder does not warrant an evaluation in excess of 20 percent, as his symptoms do not meet or approximate the criteria for a higher rating under any applicable diagnostic code.

The veteran's service-connected anxiety with depression is rated at 50 percent, and the Board has granted a TDIU based on his severe disability from this condition.

The veteran's initial compensable evaluation for the service-connected left shoulder strain is being remanded due to the need for additional development, including obtaining VA treatment records and scheduling an orthopedic examination.

The Board has remanded the case due to incomplete development and procedural deficiencies, including obtaining SSA records and scheduling VA examinations for depression and gouty arthritis. The veteran's claims will be reconsidered after these actions.

The Board has dismissed the appeal regarding service connection for prolonged bowel movements and hemorrhoids. The right shoulder disorder claim is reopened, but further development is needed before a decision can be made.

The Board has determined that the veteran's claimed right knee and left knee disorders, as well as his right shoulder and left shoulder disorders, were not incurred or aggravated during active military service.

The veteran is entitled to additional special monthly compensation based on the need for regular aid and attendance of another person due to his service-connected disabilities.

The Board has remanded the veteran's claims for service connection and increased rating of his right shoulder disorder, as well as his cervical spine disorder. The RO is instructed to obtain all relevant medical records and provide the veteran with an opportunity to submit additional evidence.

The Board denied the veteran's claims for service connection for bilateral hearing loss and established a noncompensable evaluation for cervical dysplasia, molluscum contagiosum, residuals of excision of pilar cyst from the scalp, and diabetes mellitus. The claim for an initial disability evaluation in excess of 10 percent for tendonitis of the right shoulder was also denied.

The veteran's service-connected disabilities have resulted in permanent loss of use of one or both feet, qualifying him for an automobile or other conveyance and adaptive equipment.

The Board has determined that the veteran's claims for increased evaluations for various conditions, including his lumbar spine and shoulder disabilities, have not been met under the applicable rating criteria.

The Board denied the veteran's claims for service connection for a right shoulder disability and bilateral pes planus due to lack of competent evidence showing these conditions are related to his military service.

The veteran's claims for service connection were denied, while he was granted a compensable rating for his right fourth metacarpal fracture. His cervical strain and bilateral shoulder bursitis were not found to be related to service, but his left knee disorder is considered incurred in service.

The veteran's claims for a higher disability rating for PTSD and TDIU are being remanded to obtain additional VA treatment records.

The veteran's case is being remanded for scheduling a hearing before the Board of Veterans' Appeals. He requested a video or travel Board hearing due to his health issues.

The veteran's claims for higher initial evaluations for his right shoulder and low back disabilities are denied as the effective dates assigned are considered the earliest possible under VA regulations.

The veteran's TDIU claim is being remanded due to the need for additional medical evidence and an examination to determine his ability to work given his service-connected disabilities.

The VA determined that the veteran's traumatic arthritis of the right shoulder does not warrant a rating in excess of 10 percent.