The Veteran's decreased right thumb flexion status post-surgery is currently rated at 10 percent, and the Board has denied a higher rating as there is no evidence of unfavorable ankylosis or a gap of more than two inches between the thumb pad and fingers with the thumb attempting to oppose them.
The deciding factor: The VA examination findings did not show ankylosis or a gap greater than two inches, which are required for a higher rating under Diagnostic Code 5228.
- Claimed conditions
- Decreased right thumb flexion status post-surgery
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating
- Not verified here — check the original decision
- Decision date
- March 8, 2023
- Citation
- 23013983
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. Read the original VA decision (opens in a new tab) using citation 23013983.
What this means for you
A final Board denial may be appealed to the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims, generally within 120 days of the Board mailing date. A Supplemental Claim with new and relevant evidence is a separate option. Another Higher-Level Review of the Board decision is not available. Check your own notice: this historical decision does not set your deadline.
What you can do next
Use your own notice and decision stage. A remanded issue is not a final court-appealable denial. VA review guidance and CAVC filing instructions (U.S. federal; reviewed October 7, 2026).
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