The Veteran's claims for increased ratings were denied as his left knee flexion and extension did not meet the criteria for higher ratings under applicable diagnostic codes.
The deciding factor: The clinical evidence showed that prior to April 30, 2013, the Veteran had limited left knee flexion but no limitation in extension. From April 30, 2013 to September 3, 2013, he experienced some limitation in both flexion and extension.
- Claimed conditions
- Left Knee Arthritis, Status Post Excision of Loose Body and Chondroplasty
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- None in this decision
- Decision date
- April 5, 2019
- Citation
- 19126128
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
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Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
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- Partly granted
The Board granted an evaluation of 20 percent, but not in excess thereof, from February 13, 2009 to February 28, 2017 for left knee arthritis manifested by dislocation of the semilunar cartilage with frequent episodes of 'locking' pain and effusion into the joint. The Board also granted an evaluation of 10 percent, but not in excess thereof, from February 28, 2017 to January 7, 2018 for left knee instability.
- Partly granted
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- Denied
The Board denied an increased evaluation in excess of 10 percent for the left and right knee arthritis as the evidence did not show the Veteran's knee disabilities manifested with any specific criteria required for higher ratings.
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