Veterans’ RightsAn independent resource for veterans
← All decisions
Denied

The Board found that the veteran's left ankle disability, which is currently rated at 10 percent disabling under Diagnostic Code 5271 for limitation of motion of the ankle, does not warrant an evaluation in excess of this rating.

The deciding factor: The VA examinations consistently showed full range of motion and no significant functional loss due to pain or weakness. The veteran's primary issue was laxity of the lateral ligaments which was addressed by surgery but did not result in a higher rating under Diagnostic Code 5271.

Claimed conditions
left ankle disability
How they argued it
Direct service connection
Exposure basis
None
Rating assigned
10%
Decision date
February 11, 2000
Citation
0003567

This is a plain-language summary generated by AI from a public Board of Veterans’ Appeals decision. It can contain errors — always verify against the original. Search VA.gov for the original decision (opens in a new tab) using citation 0003567.

What this means for you

A denial is a starting point, not the end of the road. You can see why this claim fell short — and, if you are still inside the one-year window, the appeal lanes that may remain open to you.

What you can do next

Related decisions

Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.

Free starter guide for your own claim

Reading this because you were denied or under-rated? Get the plain-English next steps — your appeal options, the deadline that protects you, and how appeals like yours turn out. One email, no spam.

We will only use this to send the guide. No spam, unsubscribe any time. We never sell your information.

We are not the VA. Veterans’ Rights is an independent resource built for veterans. We are not the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, not part of the government, and not endorsed by any government agency.

This is general information, not legal advice. For advice about your own situation, talk to a VA-accredited representative — many help for free.