The Board denied an initial rating higher than 10 percent for service-connected right knee instability and granted a separate compensable rating for the Veteran's semilunar cartilage condition. The right knee instability was rated as slight throughout the appeal period, while the semilunar cartilage condition resulted in frequent episodes of locking, pain, and effusion.
The deciding factor: The Board found that the Veteran’s right knee instability did not warrant a rating higher than 10 percent under DC 5257 due to mild symptoms. The semilunar cartilage condition was rated separately as it met criteria for a compensable evaluation under DC 5258.
- Claimed conditions
- Right knee instability, Semilunar cartilage condition
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating
- Not verified here — check the original decision
- Decision date
- September 12, 2018
- Citation
- 18133872
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. Read the original VA decision (opens in a new tab) using citation 18133872.
What this means for you
A final Board denial may be appealed to the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims, generally within 120 days of the Board mailing date. A Supplemental Claim with new and relevant evidence is a separate option. Another Higher-Level Review of the Board decision is not available. Check your own notice: this historical decision does not set your deadline.
What you can do next
Use your own notice and decision stage. A remanded issue is not a final court-appealable denial. VA review guidance and CAVC filing instructions (U.S. federal; reviewed October 7, 2026).
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Whole decision: Granted
The Veteran's right knee disability, including limitation of extension and flexion, instability, and meniscus condition, is now rated at 20 percent effective March 7, 2020.
- Whole decision: Granted
The Veteran's right knee disability, including limitation of extension and flexion, instability, and meniscus condition, is now rated at 20 percent effective March 7, 2020.
- Whole decision: Granted
The Board has granted effective dates of June 17, 2010 for service connection and separate ratings for right knee instability and left knee instability.
- Whole decision: Remanded (sent back)
The Board has decided to remand the case due to an inadequate medical opinion regarding the aggravation of a preexisting right knee condition during service. The Veteran's right knee condition was noted prior to service, and the VA examiner concluded it did not worsen beyond its natural progression.
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