The Veteran's left and right ankle conditions were manifested by constant pain, swelling, and limited range of motion. The Board found that the evidence demonstrated a disability picture with additional functional loss based on flare-ups and pain, warranting an increased rating to 20 percent for both ankles prior to October 20, 2011.
The deciding factor: The Veteran's ankle conditions were characterized by severe pain during flare-ups and moderate limitation of motion, which resulted in significant functional impairment. The Board considered these factors under the DeLuca criteria and granted a higher rating based on this evidence.
- Claimed conditions
- Left Ankle Sinus Tarsi, Right Ankle Sinus Tarsi
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 20%
- Decision date
- April 14, 2015
- Citation
- 1516121
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 1516121.
What this means for you
A grant means the Board agreed the veteran was entitled to the benefit. Decisions like this show the kind of evidence and arguments that tend to succeed for claims like it.
What you can do next
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