The Veteran's initial compensable evaluation for residuals of shell fragment wound, right leg was denied prior to October 10, 2016. From October 10, 2016, a 20 percent evaluation is granted. The Veteran's painful residual scar, right lower extremity received an increased rating from 10 percent to 20 percent.

The deciding factor: The evidence showed that the Veteran had muscle injuries prior to October 10, 2016, which were rated as slight and did not meet criteria for higher ratings. From October 10, 2016, his condition was rated as moderately severe due to consistent complaints of cardinal signs and symptoms such as loss of power, weakness, lowered threshold of fatigue, and pain.

Claimed conditions

shell fragment wound, right leg, residual scar, right lower extremity

How they argued it

Direct service connection

Exposure basis

None

Rating assigned

20%

Decision date

June 25, 2019

Citation

19149585