The Veteran's appeal for a higher initial rating for residuals of left thumb fracture was denied. The current disability is rated at 10 percent based on limitation of motion, with less than two inches between the thumb pad and the fingers.
The deciding factor: The most recent VA examination showed that there was no gap between the thumb pad and the fingers, which does not meet the criteria for a higher rating as per Diagnostic Code 5228. The Veteran's disability picture reflects amputation due to pain but without additional loss of range of motion.
- Claimed conditions
- left thumb fracture
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 10%
- Decision date
- November 26, 2019
- Citation
- 19189571
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 19189571.
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 remands the matter for an adequate VA examination to address all symptoms reported by the Veteran, including pain and functional loss during flare-ups.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Veteran's appeals for increased ratings on several service-connected disabilities have been withdrawn. The Board has also remanded cases involving the Veteran's left shoulder, lumbar spine, and lower extremity disabilities due to new evidence. Additionally, a TDIU claim is being remanded as it is inextricably intertwined with other claims.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has decided that the Veteran's left thumb fracture is service-connected. The right hip osteoarthritis and cranial nerve damage are remanded for further examination and analysis.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has remanded the case for further development regarding a dental disability and service connection issues, including effective date determinations.
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