The Veteran's claims for increased ratings for his right hand and finger disabilities have been denied. The initial compensable rating for a right third finger disability prior to November 12, 2021 has been denied. From November 12, 2021, the claim for an increased rating in excess of 10 percent is also denied. Claims for initial ratings for a right fourth and fifth finger disabilities are denied.
The deciding factor: The VA examiners found that the Veteran's right hand and finger disabilities did not meet the criteria for higher ratings based on limitation of motion or other factors, such as pain, fatigue, lack of endurance, etc.
- Claimed conditions
- Right third finger disability, Right fourth finger disability, Right fifth digit partial flexor tendon rupture (right fifth finger disability)
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 10%
- Decision date
- April 2, 2022
- Citation
- 22019720
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 22019720.
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 has remanded the Veteran's claims for a compensable rating for his right fourth finger disability and for TDIU. The right fourth finger disability claim is being remanded due to the need for a new VA examination, while the TDIU claim requires additional development including proper notice.
- Denied
The Board denied service connection for a right third finger disability, finding that the Veteran's current condition is not related to his military service.
- Denied
The Board has denied the Veteran's claims for service connection for a right third finger disability and a dental disability, claiming as oral sensitivity. The decision also notes that the issues of effective dates for left knee strain are inextricably intertwined with the earlier effective date claim.
- Granted
The Veteran's right fourth finger disability is granted an increased rating of 10 percent, effective from the date of this decision.
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