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Denied

The Veteran's left shoulder AC separation is manifested by pain and limitation of motion, with abduction to 150 degrees. The disability does not meet the criteria for a higher rating under any applicable diagnostic codes.

The deciding factor: The Veteran's left shoulder AC separation results in significant functional impairment but does not warrant an evaluation in excess of 10 percent due to his ability to abduct his arm to at least 150 degrees, which is better than the shoulder level required for a higher rating under Diagnostic Code 5201.

Claimed conditions
Left shoulder AC separation
How they argued it
Direct service connection
Exposure basis
None
Rating assigned
10%
Decision date
December 22, 2009
Citation
0948144

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 0948144.

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