The Veteran's claims for increased ratings and service connection were denied. The left anterior medial knee scar, left knee limitation of flexion, left knee patellar instability, and left knee removal of semilunar cartilage are all rated at the minimum 10 percent level due to painful motion. GERD is not manifested by a documented history of esophageal stricture(s) that requires daily medications to control dysphagia otherwise asymptomatic. The Veteran's radiculopathies are both rated at the maximum 20 percent level.
The deciding factor: The evidence does not support higher ratings for any of the conditions, as they do not meet the criteria for more severe disability under the applicable rating schedule.
- Claimed conditions
- Left Anterior Medial Knee Scar, Left Knee Limitation of Flexion, Left Knee Patellar Instability, Left Knee Removal of Semilunar Cartilage, Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), Left Lower Extremity Radiculopathy, Right Lower Extremity Radiculopathy
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating
- Not verified here — check the original decision
- Decision date
- March 17, 2026
- Citation
- A26023654
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. Read the original VA decision (opens in a new tab) using citation A26023654.
What this means for you
A final Board denial may be appealed to the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims, generally within 120 days of the Board mailing date. A Supplemental Claim with new and relevant evidence is a separate option. Another Higher-Level Review of the Board decision is not available. Check your own notice: this historical decision does not set your deadline.
What you can do next
Use your own notice and decision stage. A remanded issue is not a final court-appealable denial. VA review guidance and CAVC filing instructions (U.S. federal; reviewed October 7, 2026).
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Whole decision: Granted
The Veteran's acquired psychiatric disorder is granted a 70% rating, effective July 15, 2024. The Veteran's GERD remains at a 10% rating.
- Whole decision: Granted
The Veteran's bilateral lower extremity radiculopathy has been granted a 30 percent disability rating since November 29, 2021.
- Whole decision: Granted
The Veteran's PTSD is granted at a 70 percent rating prior to July 29, 2024. The GERD rating remains at 30 percent disabled but no higher.
- Whole decision: Remanded (sent back)
The Veteran's IBS with GERD was granted an initial 60 percent rating. The Board has remanded the issue of service connection for obstructive sleep apnea due to insufficient medical opinions and development.
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