The Veteran's left knee chondromalacia is currently rated at 30 percent for instability, and a separate 10 percent rating for limited flexion. The Veteran also meets the criteria for TDIU based on her service-connected disabilities.,The Veteran has been granted a separate 20 percent disability rating for limited flexion of the left knee.
The deciding factor: The Veteran's chondromalacia of the left knee is manifested by severe instability and limited flexion to 30 degrees, meeting the criteria for a 30 percent evaluation under Diagnostic Code 5257. The separate 10 percent rating for degenerative joint disease is based on painful motion.
- Claimed conditions
- Left chondromalacia, Degenerative joint disease of the left knee
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 30%
- Decision date
- August 2, 2019
- Citation
- 19160303
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. Look up the original decision on VA.gov (opens in a new tab) using citation 19160303.
What this means for you
A grant means the Board agreed the veteran was entitled to the benefit. Decisions like this show the kind of evidence and arguments that tend to succeed for claims like it.
What you can do next
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board remands the claims for further development to ensure that the severity of the Veteran's bilateral knee disability is accurately assessed without considering the ameliorative effects of medication.
- Granted
The Veteran is granted special monthly compensation (SMC) based on the need for regular aid and attendance, effective December 8, 2025.
- Granted
The Board granted increased ratings for the Veteran's degenerative spondylosis at L5-S1, left and right shoulder disabilities, left and right knee disabilities, and depressive disorder.
- Remanded (sent back)
The issues on appeal are remanded for further clarification of a December 2022 VA knee and lower leg conditions examination.
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.