The Veteran's claims for increased ratings for right knee DJD, limitation of flexion, and impairment of the right knee were denied as his conditions did not warrant higher evaluations based on current medical evidence.
The deciding factor: The VA examinations and treatment records showed that the Veteran had moderate DJD but limited range of motion in both extension and flexion. His instability was noted but not severe enough to meet criteria for a higher rating under Diagnostic Code 5257. The symptoms did not warrant separate evaluations for 'locking,' pain, or effusion as they were already addressed under other diagnostic codes.
- Claimed conditions
- Right Knee Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD), Limitation of Right Knee Flexion, Impairment of the Right Knee
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- None in this decision
- Decision date
- January 20, 2020
- Citation
- 20004413
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.
- Denied
The Veteran's claim for service connection for right knee disability, including as secondary to his left knee disability, was denied. The Board found no medical evidence linking the current right knee DJD to service or service-connected conditions.
- Granted
The Board has granted separate ratings for a right knee meniscal tear (20%) and right knee instability (10%), but denied an increased rating for right knee DJD.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has remanded the case due to incomplete records and a need for further medical examination. The Veteran's right knee DJD is being reviewed again as it may be related to service.
- Granted
The Board granted service connection for obstructive sleep apnea, effective from the date of the February 2025 rating decision.
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