The Veteran's right and left ankle disabilities were initially rated at 10 percent prior to August 7, 2019. Beginning on that date, the rating was increased to 20 percent for each ankle. The thoracolumbar spine disability was denied a rating in excess of 10 percent prior to August 7, 2019.
The deciding factor: The Veteran's right and left ankle disabilities did not meet criteria for higher ratings due to lack of marked limitation of motion. However, the VA examiner noted painful motion and functional loss resulting from pain on movement, which warranted a 20 percent rating effective August 7, 2019.
- Claimed conditions
- Right and Left Ankle Disabilities, Thoracolumbar Spine (Back) Disability
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 10%
- Decision date
- September 2, 2020
- Citation
- 20058054
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 20058054.
What this means for you
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What you can do next
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Granted
The Veteran's service-connected disabilities render her unable to secure or follow a substantially gainful occupation, and TDIU is granted.
- Granted
The Veteran's claims for service connection for a right knee disability and thoracolumbar spine disability have been reopened, and the claim for thoracolumbar spine disability is granted. The claim for right knee disability is remanded.
- Granted
The Veteran's use of ankle braces for his service-connected right and left ankle disabilities wore out or damaged their clothing, which is sufficient to warrant a clothing allowance for 2015.
- Denied
The Board has determined that the Veteran's right hip and back disabilities did not begin during service or are otherwise related to his military service. The claims for service connection have been denied.
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