The Veteran's appeal for an increased rating of right index finger disability was withdrawn. The claim for a higher rating for left foot arthritis (previously hallux valgus) from December 10, 2016 to November 3, 2017 is granted at 10 percent. A rating in excess of 10 percent since November 3, 2017 is denied.
The deciding factor: The Veteran underwent a first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint fusion surgery on his left great toe due to severe arthritis and was found unfit for further military service by the PEB. His left foot condition has been rated under Diagnostic Code 5003-5280, with a maximum of 10 percent based on limitation of motion.
- Claimed conditions
- Left foot arthritis (previously hallux valgus), Right index finger disability
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 10%
- Decision date
- October 28, 2022
- Citation
- 22060739
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 22060739.
What this means for you
A dismissal means the Board did not decide the issue on its merits — usually because it was withdrawn or had become moot. It says more about procedure than about whether a claim like this can win.
What you can do next
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Granted
The Veteran's right index finger disability is granted as service-connected. The left shoulder disability issue requires further examination and review.
- Denied
The Board denied service connection for all the claimed conditions as there was no evidence of a current disability in accordance with VA standards.
- Partly granted
The Board granted initial ratings for the Veteran's right thumb, index finger, and long finger disabilities, as well as a separate rating for his left thumb disability. The claims for increased ratings for the right ring and little fingers, and left ring and little fingers were denied.
- Dismissed
The appeal concerning the propriety of the rating reductions for the Veteran's right distal fibula disability and tinea pedis was dismissed, while SMC based on the need for aid and attendance was granted prior to February 20, 2024.
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