The Veteran's left shoulder disability, which includes dislocation and degenerative joint disease, has been rated at 20 percent since July 28, 1992. The Board found that a higher rating is not warranted as the evidence does not support an increase in his disability level.
The deciding factor: The Veteran's left shoulder condition did not meet criteria for a higher rating based on additional limitation of motion or other functional impairment due to pain and guarding, which are considered when evaluating musculoskeletal disabilities.
- Claimed conditions
- Left Shoulder Dislocation, Degenerative Joint Disease
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 20%
- Decision date
- January 31, 2019
- Citation
- 19107515
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.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has decided to remand the case due to the need for further development, including obtaining additional medical records and arranging a VA examination.
- Denied
The Veteran's appeal for a higher rating for his left shoulder disability was denied. He is currently rated at 20 percent for recurrent dislocation and limited motion of the left shoulder.
- Denied
The Veteran's claims for increased ratings for his left shoulder dislocation and lumbar spine disability have been denied. The Board found that the evidence did not support a higher rating for either condition.
- Granted
The Veteran's knee disabilities have been rated based on their effects on his ability to perform activities of daily living, with a 30 percent rating for post-operative residuals and a 40 percent rating for limited extension. A separate 10 percent rating has also been granted for symptomatic removal of semilunar cartilage.
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