The veteran's claims for increased evaluations and TDIU were denied. The left shoulder arthritis is currently rated at the maximum schedular rating, while the left elbow osteoarthritis warrants a noncompensable evaluation.
The deciding factor: The medical evidence does not support an increase in disability ratings beyond those assigned as the veteran's conditions are already rated under the most favorable diagnostic codes available for his service-connected disabilities.
- Claimed conditions
- Degenerative Arthritis of the Left Shoulder, Osteoarthritis of the Left Elbow
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 30%
- Decision date
- December 8, 2005
- Citation
- 0533250
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. Look up the original decision on VA.gov (opens in a new tab) using citation 0533250.
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.
- Granted
The Veteran's service-connected disabilities render her unable to secure or follow a substantially gainful occupation, and TDIU is granted.
- Granted
Service connection for PTSD is granted. Increased ratings are granted for IVDS with degenerative arthritis and vertebral fracture with bilateral thoracic radiculopathy of the ventral and dorsal ramus nerves, right lower extremity sciatic radiculopathy, left lower extremity sciatic radiculopathy, and left ankle pilon fracture residuals.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Veteran's claims for increased ratings and service connection are being remanded due to the need for additional development, including VA examinations.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Veteran's appeal for an increased rating of PTSD was denied, and the Board found that his competency determination did not warrant a higher rating. The appeals for service connection of right shoulder, left shoulder, and lumbar spine disabilities were remanded due to insufficient medical opinions.
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