Wrist & hand decisions — 2014

The Veteran's claim for an initial compensable rating for his service-connected left wrist disability is being remanded due to the need for a new VA examination and consideration of updated treatment records.

The Veteran's left wrist tendonitis is found to be at least as likely as not related to service, and the Board grants service connection for this condition.

The Veteran's tendonitis of the wrists had its onset during active service and is granted service connection. The nature and etiology of any current bilateral leg disability, other than knee or hip, will be determined by further examination.

The Veteran's knee and wrist disabilities have been rated at 10 percent since September 8, 2010. The initial ratings for the right knee medial meniscus tear and pes bursitis, left knee sprain, and right wrist sprain are granted.

The Veteran's claim for an increased rating for his right index finger condition was granted. The claim to reopen a previously denied service connection for right hand carpal tunnel syndrome remains pending.

The Board has determined that the Veteran does not have a diagnosed low back disorder, and thus service connection for this condition is denied.

The Veteran's right wrist tendonitis is currently rated at a 10 percent disability evaluation, effective February 27, 2009. The appeal has been granted.

The Veteran's service-connected disabilities do not meet the criteria for a TDIU rating as her combined evaluation is less than 60% and she does not have one disability rated at least 40% disabling. The Board finds that her service-connected conditions, alone, are not shown to preclude her from securing or following substantially gainful employment.