The Veteran's service-connected intervertebral disc syndrome with degenerative arthritis of the spine is granted. The increased rating for lateral instability of the left knee and separate compensable rating for residuals of dislocated cartilage of the left knee are granted, effective June 9, 2016. The issue of entitlement to a total disability based upon individual unemployability (TDIU) due to service-connected disability is remanded. The issue of entitlement to service connection for a foot disability is also remanded.
The deciding factor: The Veteran's intervertebral disc syndrome with degenerative arthritis of the spine was found to have originated during his active service, and thus granted service connection based on direct evidence. For the left knee issues, the VA examinations supported the findings that the Veteran experienced pain, instability, weakness, fatigue, and lack of endurance, resulting in functional loss.
- Claimed conditions
- intervertebral disc syndrome (IVDS), degenerative arthritis of the spine, lateral instability of the left knee, residuals of dislocated cartilage of the left knee
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 20%
- Decision date
- August 29, 2018
- Citation
- 18130223
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 18130223.
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
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Dismissed
The Veteran's appeal for a higher rating for right foot disability status post Mitchell's bunionectomy is granted with an effective date of July 25, 2023.,The Veteran's appeal for a higher rating for left foot disability status post Mitchell's bunionectomy is dismissed as it does not meet the criteria for an earlier effective date.
- Dismissed
The Veteran's appeal was dismissed due to their death during the pendency of the appeal.
- Granted
The Veteran's claim for service connection for degenerative arthritis of the spine was granted. The claims for service connection for obstructive sleep apnea and residuals of head injuries and concussions are remanded.
- Dismissed
The Veteran's appeal for an earlier effective date for service connection of intervertebral disc syndrome, traumatic arthritis of the spine with stenosis, and status-post spinal fusion is dismissed due to the Veteran's death.
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