The Board denied increased ratings for the left knee disability and instability, but granted a 100 percent rating from May 31, 2023, for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) with bipolar I disorder.

The deciding factor: The evidence did not support higher ratings due to limited motion or instability in the knees, while the severity of the psychiatric disorder warranted a 100 percent rating from May 31, 2023.

Claimed conditions

Left knee chondromalacia patella with degenerative arthritis, Left knee instability, Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) with bipolar I disorder, severe, current or most recent episode depressed, with mixed features, with psychotic features, and alcohol use disorder, severe

How they argued it

Direct service connection

Exposure basis

None

Rating assigned

None in this decision

Decision date

December 3, 2025

Citation

A25104105

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