The Veteran's initial claim for a higher rating for his left ankle disability is denied as the evidence does not support a finding of marked limitation of motion.,For the period prior to August 23, 2017, the Veteran's low back strain disability warrants a 20 percent rating based on moderate limitation of flexion. The Board finds that this rating is appropriate given the evidence showing at worst forward flexion to 60 degrees with pain.,Since August 23, 2017, the Veteran's low back strain disability does not warrant a higher than 20 percent rating as there is no ankylosis or incapacitating episodes meeting specific criteria.
The deciding factor: The evidence shows that the Veteran has moderate limitation of motion in his left ankle with occasional pain and functional loss, but without marked limitation. The current 10% rating adequately reflects this level of disability.,For the period prior to August 23, 2017, the Veteran's low back strain disability is manifested by forward flexion to 60 degrees with evidence of pain, but no ankylosis or incapacitating episodes. The current 20% rating adequately reflects this level of disability.,Since August 23, 2017, the Veteran's low back strain disability is manifested by forward flexion to 45 degrees without ankylosis or incapacitating episodes meeting specific criteria. A higher rating is not warranted.
- Claimed conditions
- Left Ankle Disability, Low Back Strain
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- None in this decision
- Decision date
- May 12, 2021
- Citation
- 21028948
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 21028948.
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Related decisions
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- Denied
The Veteran's claim for service connection for GAD is denied as his anxiety symptoms are subsumed under PTSD.,Service connection for Right Shoulder Strain and Left Ankle Disability is denied due to lack of current diagnosis or evidence of functional impairment.
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