The Board denied the veteran's claims for increased ratings for thoracic strain, cervical strain, left ankle sprain with instability, and hemorrhoids.
The deciding factor: The evidence did not support a higher rating as the Veteran's conditions were only moderately limited in their range of motion and did not meet the criteria for a higher rating under the applicable diagnostic codes.
- Claimed conditions
- thoracic strain, cervical strain, left ankle sprain with instability, hemorrhoids
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- None in this decision
- Decision date
- March 14, 2025
- Citation
- A25023902
What this means for you
A denial is a starting point, not the end of the road. You can see why this claim fell short — and, if you are still inside the one-year window, the appeal lanes that may remain open to you.
What you can do next
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Partly granted
The Board granted higher ratings for the Veteran's service-connected carpal tunnel syndrome and cubital tunnel syndrome of both upper extremities, but remanded claims for service connection for sinusitis, calcified lymph nodes on the lungs, and cervical strain.
- Dismissed
The appeals for restoration of ratings and for a higher disability rating were dismissed as the April 2025 rating decision did not make final decisions on these issues.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board remands the claim for service connection for hemorrhoids due to a pre-decisional duty to assist error, requiring an additional direct medical opinion.
- Granted
The Board granted a 10 percent rating for hemorrhoids, which fully satisfies the Veteran's appeal.
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This is general information, not legal advice. For advice about your own situation, talk to a VA-accredited representative — many help for free.