The Veteran's left knee disabilities, including instability and dislocated cartilage with frequent episodes of locking, are rated at the maximum allowed under applicable diagnostic codes. However, his limitation in flexion is not greater than 40 degrees, which does not warrant a higher rating. The limitation in extension was found to be non-compensable.
The deciding factor: The Veteran's left knee disabilities have been rated based on their severity and symptoms as per the applicable diagnostic codes (DCs). His instability and dislocated cartilage with frequent episodes of locking are rated at the maximum allowed under DC 5258, which is a 20% rating. The limitation in flexion was found to be limited to 40 degrees, not warranting a higher rating as per DC 5260. His limitation in extension was found to be non-compensable.
- Claimed conditions
- Left Knee Instability, Dislocated Cartilage with Frequent Episodes of Locking, Limitation of Flexion of the Left Knee, Limitation in Extension of the Left Knee
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- None in this decision
- Decision date
- August 3, 2022
- Citation
- 22044244
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 22044244.
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Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Denied
The Veteran's service-connected knee disabilities have been rated and denied for increased ratings, with some conditions receiving specific disability ratings. The Veteran is granted a 60% rating for her total right knee replacement from September 4, 2015 onwards, but the other claims are denied.
- Partly granted
The Veteran's claims for service connection and increased ratings have been remanded due to insufficient evidence. The Board will consider all submitted evidence, including any new evidence provided by the Veteran.
- Granted
The Veteran's left knee disability is rated at 40 percent for limitation of extension, effective December 18, 2025. The Veteran also received separate ratings for instability and dislocation of semilunar cartilage.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Veteran's hypertension, left knee flexion limitation, and instability of the left knee are all rated at their maximum allowable under VA regulations. The right knee scar is not compensable. The Board has remanded for further examination to determine the severity of these conditions without considering the ameliorative effects of medication.
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