The Board denied the Veteran's appeal for an initial rating greater than 20 percent for residuals of a right ankle fracture and lateral collateral ligament sprain with osteochondritis dissecans, to include osteochondral fracture and degenerative arthritis, status-post Brostrom surgery.
The deciding factor: The record evidence showed that the Veteran's service-connected residuals were manifested by complaints of pain, instability on uneven surfaces, and other symptoms which supported a 20 percent rating under DC 5003-5271. There was no evidence to support a higher or separate compensable rating.
- Claimed conditions
- Residuals of a right ankle fracture and lateral collateral ligament sprain with osteochondritis dissecans, to include osteochondral fracture and degenerative arthritis, status-post Brostrom surgery
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 20%
- Decision date
- April 15, 2025
- Citation
- A25034539
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.
- Granted
The Board granted service connection for obstructive sleep apnea, effective from the date of the February 2025 rating decision.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board remands the claim for a medical examination to determine if the Veteran's current neck strain is related to his in-service activities.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board remands the claim for a rating in excess of 70 percent for PTSD due to an inadequate medical opinion.
- Granted
The Board granted service connection for myasthenia gravis based on the Veteran's exposure to hazardous substances during his military service.
We are not the VA. Veterans’ Rights is an independent resource built for veterans. We are not the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, not part of the government, and not endorsed by any government agency.
This is general information, not legal advice. For advice about your own situation, talk to a VA-accredited representative — many help for free.