VA Disability Ratings for Neck and Shoulder Pain range from 10% to 100%, with breaks at 20%, 30%, 40%, and 50%. There are several different kinds of back disabilities that can earn a VA disability rating. Cincinnati, OH: 300 E Business Way, Suite 200, Summit Woods Corporate Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45241 A 2023 Guide to VA Disability Rates & Pay Schedules, Individual Unemployability Rating Calculator, List of Blue Water Navy Ships Exposed to Agent Orange (Interactive Vietnam Map), Social Security Disability Benefits Guide. Although cervical spondylosis is just a term to explain aging, if it happens faster than its supposed to, you may be eligible for VA compensation. Hear from fellow Veterans just like you, with many of our Business Development Representatives having gone through our programs. It may take four to six weeks to get back to doing simple activities of daily living. A cervicalgia VA rating will be decided based on the severity of symptoms and how much they limit an individuals movement or range of motion. It is common for secondary conditions to occur from orthopedic disabilities. Combined Range of Motion vs Flexion of 60%, Muscle Guarding and Abnormal Curves of the Spine, We know VA Disability Law can be a Pain in the Neck, More about VA Disability for Spine and Back Pain, 38 CFR 4.71a Schedule of ratings musculoskeletal system, Use our VA disability calculator to estimate your. Gathering all of your medical documents that detail the development of your pain and symptoms should be your first step. 17 posts . Chicago, IL: 332 S. Michigan Avenue, Floors 8 and 9, Chicago, IL 60604 Temporary disability rating after surgery or cast | Veterans Affairs Bone spurs or osteophytes can grow on bones and cause joints to enlarge. If you want to learn how to implement these strategies to get the VA benefits you deserve, click here to speak with a VA claim expert for free. Many natural conditions are also accelerated by time spent in the service. Take advantage of a FREE VA Claim Discovery Call with an experienced Team Member. Its FREE to get started, so click Go Elite Now below to complete our 3-step intake process. The combined range of motion of the thoracolumbar spine not greater than 120 degrees; or. Neck arthritis can also spread to affect other parts of the body. If yes, is degenerative or post-traumatic arthritis documented? #19. A Federal Circuit court ruling in April of 2018 decided that VA can award disability benefits for undiagnosed pain if it is linked to an injury, symptom, or in-service event. If accepted into our ELITE membership program, youll get free up-front access and permission to use $13,119 worth of proprietary VA claim resources, including access to our network of independent medical professionals for medical examinations, disability evaluations, and credible Medical Nexus Letters, which could help you get a HIGHER VA rating in LESS time. They are very knowledgeable. They may also need to wear a back brace. If abnormal ROM, does the range of motion itself contribute to a functional loss? Click Go Elite Now below to get started today and a member of our team will be in touch within minutes. What is VA rating for cervicalgia ? VA disability rating for neck pain VA Disability Benefits for Spondylosis | CCK Law Injuries such as radiculopathy dont depend so much on the pain in your back as they depend on the paralysis in your hands and feet. If youre stuck, frustrated, underrated, and currently rated between 0%-90%, VA Claims Insider Elite is for you! It can also be difficult if there is no record of the injury you received. IVDS can also cause nerve pain in the legs and arms, depending on where the . Phoenix, AZ: One Renaissance Tower, Two North Central Avenue, 18th & 19th Floor, Phoenix, AZ 85004 (Authority: 38 U.S.C. From a VA disability perspective, this can help you get a permanent rating. Washington, D.C.: 1776 I Street, NW, 9th Floor, Washington, D.C 20006 We advocate for the disabled. San Jose, CA: 2880 Zanker Road, Ste. Veteran with child only (no spouse or parents). If youre only 45 years old but it feels as though your neck is 80, it may be beneficial to speak with a doctor about applying for a VA disability rating. Lumbosacral, Cervical Strain, or Cervicalgia are the medical terms used to describe Neck Pain.. To assess a veterans neck pain and the potential connection to an in-service event, VA is allowed to request a compensation and pension (C&P) exam. Any direction of stiffness that is not straight up is considered unfavorable ankylosis. Sign up for our weekly email newsletter to stay updated on VA news, policy changes, and more. This prevents pinched nerves, slipped discs, and other IVDS problems. Brian Reese here, Air Force service-disabled Veteran and Founder @ VA Claims Insider. In such cases, the VA is able to consider certain, Once the VA has acknowledged that your disability is related to servicei.e. Forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine up to 85 degrees or of the cervical spine up to 40 degrees. #2. The veteran continues to prove service connection by submitting evidence that proves their neck pain interferes with their daily life. Neck Conditions: How To Get VA Disability - The Veterans Law Office To receive a 100% rating, youll need to prove that your condition is completely disabling and that you cannot work or earn a living in any capacity. 2023 by JVDS. Combined thoracolumbar less than 120 or cervical combined less than 170 or muscle spasms or guarding enough to cause abnormal gait or an abnormal contour of your spine. Ankylosis can occur anywhere in your body where there is a joint. There is another level to VA disability if the veteran experiences secondary conditions. Youll bend forward and backward as well as side to side, and every measurement matters. Yes, many veterans suffer from service connected neck and shoulder conditions, which can affect your back, hips, knees, ankles, and feet. This means you do NOT currently have the VA disability rating and compensation YOU deserve, and you could be missing out on thousands of dollars of tax-free compensation and benefits each month. VA Disability Rating for Neck Pain | The Tuley Law Office VA Disability Rating for Spinal Fusion Explained | CCK Law Back pain typically refers to injuries in the lower half of the spine or the thoracolumbar section. Your final VA rating for Degenerative Disc Disease depends upon the Frequency, Severity, and Duration of symptoms, including Painful Motion, Limitation of Range of Motion (ROM), and Functional Loss or Impairment. Asthma secondary to Nasal polyps. A current diagnosis for a spinal condition that necessitates spinal fusion as treatment, Evidence that the injury or accident that caused the condition that necessitates the spinal fusion occurred while on duty, A documented medical nexus or link between the diagnosed condition and the service-related injury or event, Information regarding the incident that led to your injuries, Any evidence that supports your statements of what happened. Asthma secondary to GERD (acid reflux or heartburn) Asthma secondary to Obstructive Sleep Apnea. VA ratings for neck pain require an accurate Range of Motion (ROM) test of the flexion extension, lateral flexion, and rotation of the head. In the VA rating system, orthopedic conditions affecting the spine are separated into neck conditions and back conditions. Well address that elsewhere, but for the purposes of this article, well focus only on the back. Tucson, AZ: One South Church Avenue, 12th Floor, Tucson, AZ, 85701 Each of those additional problems might carry their own VA rating, so get ready for some VA math! Secondary conditions such as an altered gait, trouble eating, or difficulty swallowing can also contribute to a higher VA disability rating. The reasonable doubt rule, means that the evidence provided by the claimant/beneficiary (or obtained on his/her behalf) must only persuade the decision maker that each factual matter is at least as likely as not.. Extraschedular Ratings for VA Disability Claims, Establishing a Service-related Connection to Spinal Fusion, Spinal Fusion VA Disability Rating 30-60%, Spinal Fusion VA Disability Rating 70-100%. Combat and deployment do not factor into this decision, so even car wrecks that happen on leave are considered viable. You can also apply in person at your nearest Social Security office. Many of the angles in the chart above relate to forward flexion. A veteran's Degenerative Disc Disease VA disability can be rated at 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, or 100%. I am now going to have three . Combined range of motion of the cervical spine greater than 170 degrees but not greater than 335 degrees; or. Unfavorable ankylosis of the entire thoracolumbar spine. #18. Injuries such as radiculopathy dont depend so much on the pain in your back as they depend on the paralysis in your hands and feet. The rules of the VA's Schedule for Rating Disabilities (VASRD) are used to assign rating percentages to conditions. #16. There are a lot of things like falls, impacts, heavy lifting, and other activities that can be service-connected to your injury. VA ratings for spinal fusion follow the same process as other spinal conditions and are based on the range of motion defined in 38 CFR 4.71a. The most trusted name in education-based resources for Veterans. Houston, TX: 2925 Richmond Ave, 12th Floor, Houston, TX 77098 Applying for VA Benefits Years After Service: Is It Allowed? Dear Veteran, Heres the brutal truth about VA disability claims: According to our data, 8/10 (80%) of veterans reading this message right now are underrated by the VA. In this article, well explain how the VA rates spinal fusion surgery for disability benefits and what you need to do to apply. Another common secondary disability is Radiculopathy secondary to Back and Neck Pain. Share. What is the VA Disability Rating for Neck Pain? They must cause problems doing normal activities. This article will detail how spinal fusions factor into VA disability ratings and how you can get benefits for your service-related spinal fusion injury. Patients will likely need to take it easy and avoid strenuous activity during that time. Can You Get Disability for Degenerative Disc Disease and IVDS? Buddy statements provide the same type of information but come from other veterans who may have served with the claimant. This is Favorable or Unfavorable Ankylosis. If this is the case, the veteran may be eligible for Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability, or TDIU. Medical records could also be included such as X-rays or MRIs. The VA rates Cervicalgia under CFR Title 38, Part 4, Schedule for Rating Disabilities, General Rating Formula for the Spine as follows. Remember, if you have any questions, we encourage you to contact us for support. #21. How to Get Disability for Spinal Fusion (Updated for 2023) In selected cases, some surgeons use a synthetic substance instead of bone grafts. This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Learn what youve been missingso you can FINALLY get the disability rating and compensation YOU DESERVE! Its also helpful to have a private medical provider conduct a physical examination of your spine to document any new Limitation of Range of Motion (ROM) and Pain Level (1-10). A number of them require surgery to correct the problem. Forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine greater than 30 degrees but not greater than 60 degrees; or. His eBook, the9 Secrets Strategies for Winning Your VA Disability Claimhas been downloaded more than 300,000 times in the past three years and is the #1 rated free VA disability claims guide for veterans. There are 3 primary ways a veteran can get a VA Rating for Cervicalgia: If youre already service connected, and youre trying to increase your VA disability rating for neck pain, you need to prove to the VA that your symptoms are now worse and warrant the higher rating by law. VA Disability Ratings for Neck and Shoulder Pain range from 10% to 100%, with breaks at 20%, 30%, 40%, and 50%. If any limitation of motion is specifically attributable to pain, weakness, fatigability, incoordination, or other; please note the degree(s) in which limitation of motion is specifically attributable to the factors identified and describe. Some examples of cervical conditions that are rated under this code include the following: Diagnostic Code 5237 Cervical Strain A torn tendon or muscle in the neck. IVDS can cause chronic pain in the back, usually made worse by prolonged sitting or bending. This occurs when a veteran is unable to perform with the same strength and endurance as before the condition. The examiner should provide the estimated range of motion based on a review of all procurable information to include the Veterans statement on examination, case-specific evidence (to include medical treatment records when applicable and lay evidence), and the examiners medical expertise. While we still have our home base in Florida, Here one of our VA disability lawyers goes over the questions Woods and Woods, The Veterans Firm, is often asked about veterans disability claims and appeals. When the discs between your vertebrae wear out and cause all of these problems, sometimes a surgeon will fuse two or more of your vertebrae together. VA Disability Rating For Spinal Fusion (2023 Guide) Maybe. These injuries can be caused by a variety of factors. TDIU benefits are equivalent to those of a 100% disability rating and are awarded when one or more disabilities render a veteran unable to secure and keep substantially gainful employment. If you add in the rest of your back, so that your entire back is fused in an unfavorable position, youll be eligible for 100%. Only individuals with chronic neck pain will be eligible for VA benefits. VA disability will not be awarded to those who cannot prove they have long-lasting or recurring issues. As with most back disabilities, the VA puts a lot on the level of flexion you have. Any sorts of spine surgery while in the service, injuries that affected your back like falls or impacts, and events like car wrecks can all point to spine and back service-connected injuries. Its crucial to note any discomfort or pain in the area that may have existed before your enrollment because your service may have significantly worsened or reinjured a prior injury. Confidential or time-sensitive information should not be sent through this form. Los Angeles, CA: 10880 Wilshire Blvd., Ste 1101, Los Angeles, CA 90025 Some examples of cervical conditions that are rated under this code include the following: Diagnostic Code 5237 Cervical Strain A torn tendon or muscle in the neck, Diagnostic Code 5238 Cervical Spine Stenosis The spinal canal narrowing for one reason or another, Diagnostic Code 5242 Degenerative Arthritis of the Spine Pain from the degeneration of the cervical vertebrae. We hope this guide has been helpful. Asthma secondary to Anxiety. They will also consider your age, education, and employment history. Does procured evidence (statements from the veteran) suggest pain, fatigability, weakness, lack of endurance, or incoordination which significantly limits functional ability with repeated use over time? Where there are additional disabilities rated 50% or 100%, or anatomical or loss of use of a third extremity see 38 CFR 3.350 (f) (3), (4) or (5). Veterans nowadays may have to sit for multiple hours a day. That sounds like your lower back has to move less than 30 in each direction since 30+30+30+30=120. If youre still experiencing pain, that could warrant a higher disability rating. 5 Basic Rules to get VA Disability for Back Problems Columbus, OH: 100 E. Campus View Boulevard, Suite #250, Columbus, OH, 43235 Muscle spasm or guarding severe enough to result in an abnormal gait or abnormal spinal contour such as scoliosis, reversed lordosis, or abnormal kyphosis. A 10% disability rating for spinal fusion is granted when forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine is greater than 60 degrees but not greater than 85 degrees; or, forward flexion of the cervical spine greater than 30 degrees but not greater than 40 degrees; or, combined range of motion of the thoracolumbar spine greater than 120 degrees but not The problem that develops later, though, is that the rest of your vertebrae are picking up the slack and absorbing more shock. C&P exams are typically carried about by a VA physician or other VA-approved health professional. The disability ratings for spinal diseases range from 10% for minor conditions to 100% for . Heres the brutal truth about VA disability claims: You Deserve It: The Definitive Guide to Getting the Veteran Benefits Youve Earned, 9 Secrets Strategies for Winning Your VA Disability Claim. If you have a limitation of motion that only applies to how you can twist, note that if you have full thoracolumbar motion forward, sideways, and backward, that is only going to add up to 180 of total motion without some rotation. You want to see a doctor with a good knowledge of VA disability ratings. Sometimes neck injuries do not cause a problem at the time of the incident. If you experience back or neck pain from sitting in a chair for too long, you shouldnt be embarrassed to apply for VA benefits. My back conditions have worsened. Does the Veteran report having any functional loss or functional impairment of the joint or extremity being evaluated on this questionnaire, including but not limited to after repeated use over time? Cleveland, OH: 600 Superior Ave. East, Fifth Third Building, Suite 1300, Cleveland, OH, 44114 Does the veteran have localized tenderness, guarding or muscle spasm of the cervical spine? The VA only gives a 50% rating if you have unfavorable ankylosis of the entire thoracolumbar spine. The difference is almost $2,700 per year! Military records that explain an activity or incident which may have led to neck pain can also help establish a relationship between service and the neck condition. Once the VA granted a service connection, a percentage rating will be assigned. Brian is a Distinguished Graduate of Management from theUnited States Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs, CO and he holds an MBA from Oklahoma State Universitys Spears School of Business, Stillwater, OK, where he was a National Honor Scholar (Top 1% of Graduate School class). When reviewing claims for spinal fusions, the VA will look at things like X-rays, MRIs, medical records, and independent medical opinions from treating physicians. The same veteran with a 100% disability rating would receive $3,106.04. Brian Reeseis a VA benefits expert, author of the #1 Amazon Bestseller You Deserve It: The Definitive Guide to Getting the Veteran Benefits Youve Earned, andfounder of VA Claims InsiderThe Most Trusted Name in Education-Based Resources for Veterans.. Estimate your 2023 VA Rating & Compensation for FREE! All Rights Reserved. If accepted into our ELITE membership program, youll get free up-front access and permission to use $13,119 worth of proprietary VA claim resources, including access to our network of independent medical professionals for medical examinations, disability evaluations, and credible Medical Nexus Letters, which could help you get a HIGHER VA rating in LESS time. Does the veteran have a diagnosis of a neck condition? We consistently provide experienced, compassionate and ethical representation to our clients. The VA rating for unfavorable ankylosis of the entire cervical spine is 40%. It can include your diagnosis, independent medical opinion, medical records, and written statements from friends or family members. Lateral flexion is leaning right and left but rotation is also measured. Veterans who start the application process right away are more likely to get a VA disability rating for their neck pain. It is better for your health to be diagnosed with favorable ankylosis but if you are diagnosed with unfavorable ankylosis, you'll get more money to help you out. If the veteran uses any assistive devices, specify the condition, indicate the side, and identify the assistive device used for each condition. To establish service connection for spinal fusion, the VA requires the following three elements: Service connection can be granted for a disability resulting from an injury during service, an incident during service that aggravated an existing condition, or exposure to a known hazard during service. If the shock absorbers are removed you wont have space to pinch nerves. #20. You're not alone. Since 2016, VA Claims Insider has helped thousands of Veterans just like you get the VA rating and compensation they deserve in less time.
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