The Board denied higher initial ratings for cervical strain, right shoulder strain, left knee strain with shin splints, and right knee strain with shin splints. However, it granted a 20 percent rating for bilateral dry eye syndrome and a 10 percent rating for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Service connection was also granted for major depressive disorder, recurrent episode, mild and generalized anxiety disorder (claimed as ADHD) and tinnitus.

The deciding factor: The Board found that the Veteran's cervical strain did not meet the criteria for a higher rating due to limited forward flexion. However, he was granted a 20 percent rating for bilateral dry eye syndrome and a 10 percent rating for GERD based on his symptoms. Service connection was granted for major depressive disorder and tinnitus as they were related to in-service noise exposure.

Claimed conditions

cervical strain, right shoulder strain, left knee strain with shin splints, right knee strain with shin splints, temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD), eczema, intermittent palpitation, bilateral dry eye syndrome, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), major depressive disorder, recurrent episode, mild and generalized anxiety disorder (claimed as ADHD), tinnitus, bilateral hearing loss, bruxism, high blood pressure

How they argued it

Direct service connection

Exposure basis

None

Rating assigned

None in this decision

Decision date

October 22, 2025

Citation

A25091455

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