The veteran's left hand disability does not meet the criteria for a higher rating, as there is no evidence of moderate incomplete paralysis or significant limitation of motion.
The deciding factor: The veteran's symptoms are primarily related to decreased sensation and mild weakness, which do not warrant a higher rating under the applicable diagnostic codes.
- Claimed conditions
- residuals of left hand injury to 2nd through 5th fingers, with decreased sensation and healed scars; status post healed fractures and lacerations
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 10%
- Decision date
- January 7, 2009
- Citation
- 0900511
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
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