The Veteran's right ankle disability, characterized by osteochondritic changes and postoperative residuals, has been rated at 20 percent since May 2008. The Board finds that the current rating of 20 percent is inadequate to reflect the severity of the Veteran's condition, which most closely resembles ankylosis of the ankle with specific measurements exceeding those required for a 40 percent rating under DC 5270.
The deciding factor: The VA examination and medical records consistently indicated that the Veteran experiences significant pain, decreased range of motion, deformity, stiffness, weakness, and constant use of a brace. These findings most closely align with ankylosis of the ankle as described in DC 5270.
- Claimed conditions
- osteoarthritic changes of the right ankle
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 40%
- Decision date
- August 21, 2017
- Citation
- 1734087
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 1734087.
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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