Veterans’ RightsAn independent resource for veterans
← All decisions
Denied

The Veteran's claims for increased ratings for GERD and a ruptured flexor tendon on the left ring finger were denied as there is no documented history of esophageal stricture requiring daily medications to control dysphagia, and the disability does not meet the criteria for a compensable rating under DC 7206. The Veteran's residual of rupture, flexor tendon, left fourth (ring) finger was rated at 0% as there is no limitation of motion of the ring or little finger.

The deciding factor: The evidence did not show a documented history of esophageal stricture requiring daily medications to control dysphagia for GERD and the Veteran's disability does not meet the criteria for a compensable rating under DC 7206. For the left fourth (ring) finger, there is no limitation of motion.

Claimed conditions
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), Residual of rupture, flexor tendon, left fourth (ring) finger
How they argued it
Direct service connection
Exposure basis
None
Rating assigned
None in this decision
Decision date
February 6, 2026
Citation
A26011569

This is a plain-language summary generated by AI from a public Board of Veterans’ Appeals decision. It can contain errors — always verify against the original. Look up the original decision on VA.gov (opens in a new tab) using citation A26011569.

What this means for you

A denial is a starting point, not the end of the road. You can see why this claim fell short — and, if you are still inside the one-year window, the appeal lanes that may remain open to you.

What you can do next

Related decisions

Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.

Free starter guide for your own claim

Reading this because you were denied or under-rated? Get the plain-English next steps — your appeal options, the deadline that protects you, and how appeals like yours turn out. One email, no spam.

We will only use this to send the guide. No spam, unsubscribe any time. We never sell your information.

We are not the VA. Veterans’ Rights is an independent resource built for veterans. We are not the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, not part of the government, and not endorsed by any government agency.

This is general information, not legal advice. For advice about your own situation, talk to a VA-accredited representative — many help for free.