The Veteran's claims for increased evaluations for diabetes mellitus type 2 and diabetic peripheral neuropathy of the lower extremities have been denied as his conditions do not meet the criteria for higher ratings under applicable VA rating criteria.
The deciding factor: The Veteran’s DM with erectile dysfunction is currently rated at 20 percent, which is the maximum evaluation available based on insulin and dietary restrictions. His diabetic peripheral neuropathy of both lower extremities is rated at 10 percent each, as it does not meet the criteria for a higher rating due to mild symptoms.
- Claimed conditions
- Diabetes Mellitus Type 2 (DM), Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy, Left Lower Extremity - Sciatic Nerve, Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy, Right Lower Extremity - Sciatic Nerve
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 20%
- Decision date
- October 18, 2019
- Citation
- A19002092
What this means for you
A denial is a starting point, not the end of the road. You can see why this claim fell short — and, if you are still inside the one-year window, the appeal lanes that may remain open to you.
What you can do next
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Granted
The Board granted a total disability rating based on individual unemployability (TDIU) due to the service-connected PTSD and unspecified depressive disorder, as well as special monthly compensation (SMC) at the housebound rate effective January 26, 2010.
- Granted
The Veteran's initial compensable ratings for right and left lower extremity diabetic peripheral neuropathy affecting the sciatic nerve were granted from August 18, 2016 through June 2, 2019. Beginning June 3, 2019, a higher rating of 40 percent was granted for each extremity.
- Granted
The Veteran's diabetic peripheral neuropathy of the right upper extremity, right lower extremity, and left lower extremity was granted initial ratings of 30%, 40%, and 40% respectively. The Veteran's diabetic peripheral neuropathy of the left femoral nerve and right femoral nerve were each granted an initial rating of 20%. No other conditions or issues related to service connection were addressed.
- Granted
The Veteran's left lower extremity diabetic peripheral neuropathy is now rated at 60 percent, effective July 14, 2016. The right lower extremity condition remains at 20 percent.
We are not the VA. Veterans’ Rights is an independent resource built for veterans. We are not the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, not part of the government, and not endorsed by any government agency.
This is general information, not legal advice. For advice about your own situation, talk to a VA-accredited representative — many help for free.