The Veteran's claim for a higher rating for left shoulder degenerative joint disease with glenohumeral joint instability was denied as his disability did not more nearly approximate limitation of motion to 25 degrees from the side.
The deciding factor: The VA examiner found that the Veteran's range of motion, even considering repetitive use over time, did not reach 25 degrees from the side, which is required for a higher rating under DC 5201.
- Claimed conditions
- left shoulder degenerative joint disease, glenohumeral joint instability
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 20%
- Decision date
- April 29, 2026
- Citation
- A26039898
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 A26039898.
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.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has remanded the case due to a failure to obtain an opinion regarding direct service connection for the Veteran's right shoulder condition. The Veteran seeks service connection based on his in-service injury during PT.
- Granted
The Board has granted service connection for left shoulder strain with bicipital tendonitis, rotator cuff tendonitis, glenohumeral joint instability, and degenerative arthritis as a direct result of an in-service injury.
- Denied
The Veteran's appeals for increased disability ratings and service connection were denied. The Board found that the evidence did not meet the criteria for an increased rating or service connection in all cases.
- Partly granted
The Board denied higher ratings for tinnitus and bilateral hearing loss, granted a 30% rating for hyperacusis from January 31, 2008, and granted SMC based on the need for aid and attendance.
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