The Veteran's claims for increased ratings for service-connected left ankle disability and PTSD have been denied. The left ankle disability is currently rated at 20 percent, the maximum rating available under DC 5271. The PTSD claim has not met the criteria for a higher initial rating.
The deciding factor: Both conditions do not meet the criteria for a higher rating based on the current diagnostic codes and evidence provided.
- Claimed conditions
- deltoid ligament sprain, degenerative arthritis
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 20%
- Decision date
- January 23, 2020
- Citation
- 20005471
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.
- Dismissed
The appeal seeking service connection for diabetes mellitus, type II, degenerative arthritis, hyperlipidemia, and hypertension was dismissed due to non-compliance with claims processing rules.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board remands the claims for service connection for various conditions to correct pre-decisional duty to assist errors, including obtaining outstanding Social Security Administration records.
- Granted
The Board granted service connection for a right foot disability, diagnosed as degenerative arthritis, fibrocartilaginous calcaneonavicular with lateral cuneiform cuboid coalition, other unspecified right ankle disorder, and status post right foot fracture.
- Denied
The Board denied the Veteran's claim for a rating in excess of 40 percent for lumbosacral strain, finding that the evidence did not support a higher rating based on either incapacitating episodes or unfavorable ankylosis.
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This is general information, not legal advice. For advice about your own situation, talk to a VA-accredited representative — many help for free.