The Veteran's service-connected status post open reduction, internal fixation of the pelvis, to include low back pain and stiffness, has at least as likely as not resulted in forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine greater than 30 degrees but not greater than 60 degrees since July 19, 2012. The Veteran's service-connected right ankle fracture, to include early arthrosis with achilles tendonitis, has not resulted in marked limitation of motion or any degree of ankylosis at any point in the appeal period.
The deciding factor: The evidence does not support a finding that the Veteran experienced forward flexion limited to 30 degrees or less or functional ankylosis of the thoracolumbar spine, and there is no evidence of marked limitation of motion for his right ankle fracture.
- Claimed conditions
- status post open reduction, internal fixation of the pelvis, right ankle fracture
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 20%
- Decision date
- July 5, 2022
- Citation
- 22038281
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 22038281.
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Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Granted
The Veteran's service-connected disabilities require regular aid and attendance, which grants entitlement to special monthly compensation based on aid and attendance. The issue of entitlement to special monthly compensation at a housebound rate is moot due to the grant of aid and attendance.
- Granted
The Board has granted service connection for the Veteran's right ankle fracture and post-traumatic arthritis and arthroplasty, effective August 18, 2025. The Board found that the pre-existing condition was aggravated by active duty service.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Veteran's right ankle disability is currently rated as 10 percent disabling. The Board has determined that the VA examination provided was inadequate and remands the case for a new examination to assess the severity of his service-connected right ankle disability.
- Denied
The Veteran's service-connected disabilities do not meet the criteria for SMC higher than the (l) + (1/2) rate due to lack of anatomical loss or use of extremities, blindness, or permanent bedridden status.
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