The Board granted service connection for trigeminal nerve neuralgia due to the Veteran's service-connected frostbite of the ears, and increased the rating for right ankle degenerative joint disease from 10 percent to 20 percent. The claims for an increased rating for right ear frostbite and a separate rating for left ear frostbite residuals were denied.

The deciding factor: The trigeminal nerve neuralgia was granted due to its connection with the service-connected frostbite of the ears, while the ankle disability met the criteria for a higher rating. The other claims were denied as they did not meet the necessary criteria.

Claimed conditions

trigeminal nerve neuralgia, right ear frostbite residuals, left ear frostbite residuals, right ankle degenerative joint disease

How they argued it

Secondary to another service-connected condition

Exposure basis

None

Rating assigned

20%

Decision date

December 9, 2025

Citation

A25105827

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