Service connection for Lyme disease is denied.,An initial compensable rating (10%) for GERD is denied.,A 20% rating for bilateral plantar fasciitis with degenerative changes is granted, subject to the rules and regulations governing the award of monetary benefits.,An initial rating in excess of 10% for left wrist CTS with cervical radiculopathy is granted (20%).,An initial rating in excess of 10% for right wrist CTS is denied.,Initial ratings in excess of 10% for actinic keratosis are denied.

The deciding factor: The preponderance of the evidence does not support a current diagnosis or associated residuals of Lyme disease at any time during the appeal period.,The Veteran's GERD is currently manifested by nighttime heartburn and daily use of medication, but has not been demonstrated to meet the criteria for a higher rating under DC 7346.,Bilateral plantar fasciitis with degenerative changes manifests as moderate symptomatology, warranting a 20% rating (unilateral).,Left wrist CTS with cervical radiculopathy warrants a 20% rating due to mild incomplete paralysis of the median nerve and middle radicular group.,Right wrist CTS does not meet the criteria for a higher rating under DC 8515.,Actinic keratosis has not been demonstrated by generalized cutaneous involvement or systemic manifestations, thus warranting initial ratings in excess of 10% are denied.

Claimed conditions

Lyme disease, GERD, bilateral plantar fasciitis with degenerative changes, left wrist carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) with cervical radiculopathy, right wrist CTS, actinic keratosis

How they argued it

Direct service connection

Exposure basis

None

Rating assigned

None in this decision

Decision date

December 28, 2020

Citation

20081202