The Board has decided to remand the claims for TMJ dysfunction, right and left ankle disabilities, and an increased rating for bilateral scapular bursitis due to inadequate evidence. The Veteran's service records show multiple references to TMJ complaints during service, and she testified that her current TMJ problems began in service. For the ankle issues, the VA examination did not provide a clear opinion on whether the disability is related to service. For the increased rating claim, the most recent VA examination was conducted over 7 years ago.
The deciding factor: The evidence currently of record is inadequate to resolve the claims for TMJ dysfunction and right and left ankle disabilities, as well as the increased rating claim for scapular bursitis due to a lack of clear opinion on service connection. The Veteran's STRs show multiple references to TMJ complaints during service, but the VA examiner did not provide an opinion on whether these are related to her current condition.
- Claimed conditions
- TMJ dysfunction, right ankle disability, left ankle disability
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating
- Not verified here — check the original decision
- Decision date
- April 27, 2020
- Citation
- 20029356
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. Read the original VA decision (opens in a new tab) using citation 20029356.
What this means for you
A remand sends an issue back for more development, often a new examination or missing records. It does not award the benefit or decide the final outcome. The original decision explains the additional work ordered.
What you can do next
Use your own notice and decision stage. A remanded issue is not a final court-appealable denial. VA review guidance and CAVC filing instructions (U.S. federal; reviewed October 7, 2026).
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Whole decision: Remanded (sent back)
The Board has expanded the scope of the claim to include any mental health disorder raised by the record and has remanded for additional development regarding service connection for left leg, ankle, and psychiatric disabilities.
- Whole decision: Remanded (sent back)
The Board has remanded the Veteran's claims for left, right ankle disabilities, left and right hip disabilities, left and right shin splints, and left and right knee disabilities due to inadequate nexus opinions in the VA examination reports. The Veteran contends that her current disabilities are related to injuries sustained during basic training.
- Whole decision: Dismissed
The Board has dismissed the appeals for service connection of left knee disability, tension headaches, a left ankle disability, and a back disability due to the Veteran's death.
- Whole decision: Remanded (sent back)
The Board has remanded the claims for service connection due to new evidence received, and a need for additional medical opinions considering the Veteran's military occupation as a water safety survival instructor.
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