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 assigned
- None in this 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. Look up the original decision on VA.gov (opens in a new tab) using citation A26023654.
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.
- 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.
- Granted
The Veteran's bilateral lower extremity radiculopathy has been granted a 30 percent disability rating since November 29, 2021.
- 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.
- 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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