The Veteran's left knee disability is currently rated at 10 percent for degenerative joint disease and a separate 10 percent rating for instability. The appeal for an increased rating remains pending.,Service connection for the low back condition and acquired psychiatric disorder (including depression and insomnia) is remanded due to incomplete information regarding service connection criteria.,The Veteran's acquired psychiatric disorder, including depression and insomnia, may be related to Gulf War service.

The deciding factor: The preponderance of evidence does not support a higher rating for left knee degenerative joint disease. The Veteran’s flexion is limited to no less than 110 degrees, which does not meet the criteria for a higher rating.,Further clarification is needed regarding whether the Veteran's low back condition and acquired psychiatric disorder are related to service. Service connection may be established based on Gulf War service.,The VA examiner’s opinion did not adequately address the issue of aggravation or provide sufficient rationale.

Claimed conditions

{"condition_name":"Left Knee Degenerative Joint Disease"}, {"condition_name":"Low Back Condition"}, {"condition_name":"Acquired Psychiatric Disorder (including Depression and Insomnia)"}

How they argued it

Not specified

Exposure basis

None

Rating assigned

None in this decision

Decision date

October 7, 2020

Citation

20065230