The veteran's claims for increased ratings were denied as his conditions did not warrant a higher rating based on the evidence of record.

The deciding factor: The veteran's left shoulder and knee conditions do not meet the criteria for a higher evaluation under VA rating criteria, while his eye condition is considered to be no more than minimally active. The hairline fracture does not result in compensable disability.

Claimed conditions

{"condition_name":"degenerative arthritis of the left shoulder","additional_notes":"X-ray evidence of degenerative changes, crepitus and pain on motion, particularly between 90 degrees and 120 degrees of flexion"}, {"condition_name":"retropatellar pain syndrome of the left knee","additional_notes":"Range of motion to be from 0 degrees extension to 140 degrees flexion; no subluxation, joint swelling or effusion on examination"}, {"condition_name":"residuals of a head injury, laser scars, with chorioretinopathy of the left eye","additional_notes":"Corneal scarring that does not interfere with central vision and considered to be no more than minimally active; no significant bone, joint or soft tissue abnormalities on knee X-rays"}, {"condition_name":"left temporal hairline fracture, residuals of a head injury","additional_notes":"Asymptomatic, nondisfiguring superficial scar without loss of any part of the skull"}

How they argued it

Direct service connection

Exposure basis

None

Rating assigned

None in this decision

Decision date

January 30, 2006

Citation

0602580