The Veteran's bilateral knee disabilities, specifically right and left knee degenerative arthritis, were denied increased ratings. However, a separate additional 10 percent rating was granted for limitation of extension in both knees.
The deciding factor: The Veteran's range of motion testing did not warrant an increase in the current 10% rating under Diagnostic Code 5260 (limitation of flexion) as his right leg flexion is 110 degrees and left leg flexion is 120 degrees. However, limitation of extension after repeated use was limited to 10 degrees in both knees, qualifying for a separate additional 10 percent rating.
- Claimed conditions
- Degenerative Arthritis, Right Knee, Degenerative Arthritis, Left Knee
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 20%
- Decision date
- November 9, 2023
- Citation
- 23060591
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 23060591.
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Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Denied
The Veteran's left knee disability, specifically degenerative arthritis, was not rated higher than 20% prior to March 15, 2022, and 30% from that date. The Veteran also received a separate 10% rating for left knee instability throughout the appeal period.
- Denied
The Veteran's claims for increased ratings for right knee disabilities have been denied. The criteria for higher ratings under the applicable diagnostic codes were not met.
- Granted
The Veteran's service-connected disabilities, including obstructive sleep apnea, migraine headaches, and various musculoskeletal conditions, rendered him unable to secure or follow a substantially gainful occupation from October 20, 2011, to February 1, 2015.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has granted a 20 percent rating for right knee instability and a 20 percent rating for degenerative arthritis, right knee, with limited extension effective September 9, 2008. The Veteran's claim of service connection for sleep apnea is remanded due to the need for further examination. Increased ratings for his right knee disability are also remanded.
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