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Denied

The Veteran's service-connected chronic left ankle strain with posttraumatic arthritis and associated scars are currently rated at 20 percent, which is the maximum schedular rating under applicable diagnostic codes. The Board found no basis to grant a higher rating as his symptoms do not meet or approximate the criteria for a higher evaluation.

The deciding factor: The Veteran's left ankle disability is rated based on limitation of motion and does not meet the criteria for ankylosis, which would allow for a higher rating under DC 5270. The scars are rated based on their size and nature (superficial and non-linear), with no evidence of instability or pain.

Claimed conditions
Chronic Left Ankle Strain with Posttraumatic Arthritis, Left Ankle Scars
How they argued it
Direct service connection
Exposure basis
None
Rating assigned
20%
Decision date
May 17, 2018
Citation
18102952

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 18102952.

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