The decision granted earlier effective dates for DEA benefits, TDIU, and SMC based on loss of use of a creative organ from August 1, 2018, but denied increased ratings for PTSD, ED, left knee degenerative arthritis with synovitis and chondromalacia, and other conditions.
The deciding factor: The decision was based on the evidence showing that the Veteran's service-connected disabilities did not meet the criteria for higher ratings during the appeal period, while earlier effective dates were granted where appropriate under the law.
- Claimed conditions
- tenosynovitis with degenerative arthritis/trigger finger and gamekeeper's thumb, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), erectile dysfunction (ED), left knee lateral instability associated with left knee degenerative arthritis with synovitis and chondromalacia (left knee lateral instability), painful scars, degenerative arthritis of the spine with degenerative disc disease (a back condition), right lower extremity sciatic nerve radiculopathy, left lower extremity sciatic nerve radiculopathy, right lower extremity femoral nerve radiculopathy, left lower extremity femoral nerve radiculopathy, voiding dysfunction
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- None in this decision
- Decision date
- May 6, 2025
- Citation
- A25041288
What this means for you
A partial grant means some issues were granted while others were denied or remanded — common in multi-issue claims. Look at which issues went which way, and how each was argued.
What you can do next
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Partly granted
The Veteran was granted a 70 percent initial disability rating for PTSD effective December 2, 2021, but the claim for an increased rating in excess of 70 percent was denied. The appeal also included claims for service connection and ratings for various conditions, some of which were granted while others were remanded.
- Granted
The Board granted an effective date of October 17, 2022, for the grant of service connection for PTSD.
- Partly granted
The Board granted service connection for headaches and increased ratings for left shoulder rotator cuff tear, right shoulder rotator cuff tear, hypertension, and left and right leg restless leg syndrome. The Board denied a compensable rating for bilateral hearing loss and an initial rating in excess of 70 percent for posttraumatic stress disorder.
- Dismissed
The Veteran withdrew the appeal for an increased rating of his service-connected PTSD during a Board hearing, and the appeal is therefore dismissed.
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