The Board granted a rating of 20 percent for intercostal neuralgia fourth intercostal nerve damage with left arm pain, effective August 27, 2021. The claim for special monthly compensation based on the need for regular aid and attendance was denied.
The deciding factor: The Veteran's disability picture more nearly approximates severe incomplete paralysis of the long thoracic nerve, warranting a higher 20 percent rating under DC 8519. There is no evidence of complete paralysis or the need for regular aid and attendance due to service-connected disabilities.
- Claimed conditions
- intercostal neuralgia fourth intercostal nerve damage with left arm pain
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 20%
- Decision date
- July 7, 2025
- Citation
- A25057800
What this means for you
A grant means the Board agreed the veteran was entitled to the benefit. Decisions like this show the kind of evidence and arguments that tend to succeed for claims like it.
What you can do next
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