The Veteran's claims for increased ratings were denied as the evidence did not show that her cervical spine or knee disabilities warranted a higher rating based on current symptoms and examination findings.
The deciding factor: The VA examinations found no evidence of unfavorable ankylosis in the cervical spine, nor any neurological abnormalities associated with the cervical spine disability. For the knees, the VA examiner noted normal range of motion but observed functional loss due to pain during repetitive use.
- Claimed conditions
- Degenerative arthritis, cervical spine, Strain due to overuse syndrome, left knee, Right knee joint osteoarthritis
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 30%
- Decision date
- November 10, 2020
- Citation
- 20072338
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.
- Denied
The Board denied service connection for multiple conditions, including cervical spine, chronic fatigue, and various nerve damages, as the evidence did not support a finding of a current disability related to in-service events.
- Granted
The Board granted service connection for a neck injury, including degenerative arthritis, IVDS, spinal stenosis, and history of spinal fusion, based on the evidence showing chronicity since service.
- Granted
The Board granted an effective date of February 25, 2025 for the award of service connection for degenerative disc disease thoracolumbar spine with degenerative arthritis, spinal stenosis, and levoscoliosis.
- Granted
The Veteran's service-connected left knee and right shoulder disabilities, along with compensation benefits awarded under 38 USC § 1151 for a right bicep detachment during shoulder surgery, prevented him from securing or following substantially gainful employment from December 22, 2011 to December 11, 2016.
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