The Veteran's claim for an initial rating of 20 percent for left knee strain associated with left hallux valgus deformity has been granted. However, the claim for a higher rating from November 18, 2019, for limited flexion of the left knee strain is still pending and requires further examination to determine the extent of her disability.
The deciding factor: The Veteran's knee instability was found to be moderate based on subjective reports and objective evidence. However, a higher rating is not warranted due to lack of severe instability or subluxation as determined by VA examinations. The claim for increased rating from November 18, 2019, requires additional examination to assess the extent of her limited flexion.
- Claimed conditions
- Left Knee Strain, Left Hallux Valgus Deformity
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- None in this decision
- Decision date
- June 30, 2022
- Citation
- 22037728
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 22037728.
What this means for you
A remand is not a loss. The Board sent the case back for more development — often a new exam or missing records — before making a final decision. Many remands later end in a grant, and the decision spells out exactly what the Board wanted to see.
What you can do next
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Granted
The Veteran's right and left knee strains, as well as shin splints, were granted increased ratings. The Veteran also received special monthly compensation at the housebound rate from October 25, 2017 to March 11, 2024.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has determined that the Veteran does not have a current disability of bilateral hearing loss for VA purposes and therefore, service connection is denied. The claims for tinnitus, an acquired psychiatric disorder (including PTSD), obstructive sleep apnea, and left knee strain are remanded due to pre-decisional duty to assist errors.
- Granted
The reduction of the rating for service-connected left knee strain from 30 percent to 10 percent was not proper, and restoration of the 30 percent rating is granted.
- Dismissed
The Board has dismissed the appeals for service connection of low back and right knee disabilities due to improper filing deadlines.
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