BVA Case 21-4626: Back

Kershner's conditions were not related to either his chemical exposure or service in any way because carpal tunnel has nothing to do with external occupational exposures.

Kershner's right carpal tunnel syndrome was not related to his exposure to herbicides or other cleaning solutions during service.

In the May 2021,decision here on appeal,the Board found that (1) Mr.

ANALYSIS Establishing that a disability is service connected for purposes of entitlement to VA disability compensation generally requires medical or,in certain circumstances,lay evidence of (1)a current disability,(2)incurrence or aggravation of a disease or injury in service,and (3)a nexus between the claimed in-service injury or disease and the current disability.

Continuity of symptomatology is established if a claimant demonstrates (1) a condition noted during service,(2) evidence of postservice continuity of the same symptoms,and (3)medical or,in certain circumstances,lay evidence of a nexus between the present disability and the postservice symptoms.

Whether the record establishes entitlement to service connection is a finding of fact,which the Court reviews under the clearly erroneous standard.

A finding of fact is clearly erroneous when the Court,after reviewing the entire evidence, is left with the definite and firm conviction that a mistake has been committed.

As with any material issue of fact or law,the Board must provide a statement of the reasons or bases for its determination that is adequate to enable a claimant to understand the precise basis 4 for the Board's decision,as well as to facilitate review in this Court.