Yeah, I probably should appeal everything, but still wonder...
However, the clear cut things to me are Varicocele and GERD with Hiatal Hernia.
I got 0 for Varicocele but found many on appeal that got 20% with persistent inflammation and pain, which I have.
I got 10 for GERD with Hiatal Hernia. I got low balled because the provider (PA) did not check the 'frequent episodes of epigastric distress' box. He said he didn't know what they meant by that and that I should be good since everything else was checked. I have all GERD issues/symptoms and diagnosed with Hiatal Hernia. Had multiple EGD's in service, etc. My records are pretty extensive on this and also document my reflux as severe.
These are the clear cut issues to me.
The ones that get into shades of gray are the joint issues (Chondromalacia and Deg Disc). Their ratings don't reflect the amount of limitation the joint issues give me. The problem is I pretty much have full range of motion...it's just painful range of motion with weakness associated with periodic locking and giving out and audible cracking, grinding, popping, etc sounds. So, I got low-balled based on the range of motion tests...
If I got rated properly for the GERD and Varicocele though, I would reach 100% combined.
I don't know if TDIU is right for me yet. I am using my GI Bill and then hope to find a job that strikes the right balance between sedentary and active work. Too much of either causes issues for me.