The Veteran's service-connected left knee disabilities have been denied increased ratings. The left knee conditions are rated at 20 percent for instability and 10 percent for limitation of motion prior to April 11, 2016. Since June 1, 2017, the Veteran is rated at 30 percent for residuals of a total knee replacement.
The deciding factor: The evidence does not show severe recurrent subluxation or instability warranting a higher rating under Diagnostic Code 5257, and there was no limitation of flexion or extension that would support a higher rating under other relevant codes.
- Claimed conditions
- Postoperative residuals of a lateral release of the left knee, Degenerative joint disease of the left knee, Residuals of a left total knee replacement
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 30%
- Decision date
- October 27, 2020
- Citation
- 20069423
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.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board remands the claims for further development to ensure that the severity of the Veteran's bilateral knee disability is accurately assessed without considering the ameliorative effects of medication.
- Granted
The Veteran is granted special monthly compensation (SMC) based on the need for regular aid and attendance, effective December 8, 2025.
- Granted
The Board granted increased ratings for the Veteran's degenerative spondylosis at L5-S1, left and right shoulder disabilities, left and right knee disabilities, and depressive disorder.
- Remanded (sent back)
The issues on appeal are remanded for further clarification of a December 2022 VA knee and lower leg conditions examination.
We are not the VA. Veterans’ Rights is an independent resource built for veterans. We are not the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, not part of the government, and not endorsed by any government agency.
This is general information, not legal advice. For advice about your own situation, talk to a VA-accredited representative — many help for free.