The Board granted a 40 percent rating for the Veteran's left shoulder disability and a 30 percent rating for the right shoulder disability, effective October 19, 2023.

The deciding factor: The evidence showed significant limitation of motion during flare-ups and repeated use over time, warranting higher ratings under Diagnostic Code 5201.

Claimed conditions

left shoulder strain with rotator cuff tendonitis (dominant), right shoulder strain with degenerative joint disease and rotator cuff tendonitis (non-dominant), lumbar strain with degenerative disc disease thoracolumbar spine and intervertebral disc syndrome, chronic sinusitis, IBS, obstructive sleep apnea

How they argued it

Direct service connection

Exposure basis

None

Rating assigned

None in this decision

Decision date

November 4, 2025

Citation

A25095895

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