March 23, 2019 Updated: June 21, 2022 What is Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD)?Degenerative disc disease typically affects the lower back or neck. Veteran disability ratings for degenerative disc disease are typically between 10% and 20% of the VA's disability rate. A nexus is the direct link between a disability, either physical or psychological, that a Veteran suffers from and their time in the military. When a spinal disc wears down over time, it causes back pain. Cookies help us deliver the best experience on our website. Sometimes the VA Regional Office (RO) will request you attend aCompensation and Pension (C&P) examto assess your degenerative disc disease. Asthma symptoms will vary from person to person. The Disability Application Process VA 38 CFR 4.71a, Schedule of Ratings, Musculoskeletal System, contact the VA Accredited Attorneys at VetLaw, Your arthritis rating may turn into a spinal fusion claim, Chances Of Winning Disability In Federal Court. The VA rating for cervical radiculopathy is determined based on symptoms in the shoulder, arm, and hand. Because DDD often does not appear noticeably during a soldiers time in the military, it can be difficult to recognize the condition in its early stages. 2023 Brandon Orthopedics | All Right Reserved, The Truth About Spinal Stenosis: Causes Symptoms And Treatments, Can Years Of Surfing Contribute To Spinal Stenosis, The Effects Of Spinal Stenosis And Carpal Tunnel, Should I Apply Ice Or Heat To A Compression Fracture, How Does A Soft Bed Prevent Healing Of Herniated Disc, Herniated Discs: How To Sleep Without Worrying About Rupturing Your Discs, If You Have A Herniated Disc You Know The Excruciating Pain It Can Cause. He is the founder and main author of brandonorthopedics.com, a website that offers valuable resources, tips, and advice for patients looking to learn more about orthopedic treatments and physiotherapy. If the disability criteria do not accurately reflect your disability level, you may be assigned an extraschedular rating. A medical connection linking your diagnosed allergic rhinitis. Walking or swimming is an appropriate form of exercise that is low-impact. Tingling and numbness may not last for long periods of time; however, these symptoms may be a sign of possible nerve damage. For a limited time, you can book a free, no-obligation VA Claim Discovery Call with one of our experts. Feeling better by changing positions often or lying down. Since there is no certainty of what was burned at each military installation at a given time, the specific toxins released by the burn pits vary for every location. will forward what benefits the VA is paying for the allergic rhinitis condition and how best to prove your need for disability compensation, along with other information and news about burn pit exposure. Disability ratings range from 0% to 100%, with higher ratings indicating more severe symptoms. A medical diagnosis of degenerative disc disease from your doctor; and. Degenerative disc disease (DDD) occurs when the discs between the vertebrae deteriorate causing pain, weakness, tingling, and or numbness. The Essentials on VA Disability Ratings for Bulging Disc Eric Gang, ESQ Back pain is a common problem for veterans. As a result of DDD, some people can manage their pain in a variety of ways. If you are disabled at home or at work, you can achieve a disability rating regardless of where you are stationed. Water loss and disc damage gradually leads to thinner and weaker discs that cannot effectively cushion the vertebrae. Fighting insurance companies and the VA is what we do 24/7. This can lead to pain, stiffness, and other symptoms. VETERANS: Parachutists have special evidence for claims ClickHEREto Join the #1 Rated VA Claims Insider Elite Program and Start Today for FREE. For instance, which pages you go to most. Hes battled medical issues for years, and the Air Force veteran was pretty sure he was underrated by the How to Service-Connect Your Orthopedic Disabilities If youre a veteran dealing with pain from an orthopedic condition, youre not alone. The VA Disability Rating for Degenerative Disc Disease: A Guide by Berry Law is an important source. What is Functional Loss in a VA disability claim for Degenerative Disc Disease ? However, you may experience some numbness or tingling in your arms or legs. In the VA rating system, orthopedic conditions affecting the spine are separated into neck conditions and back conditions. VA often denies service connection for degenerative disc disease based on an examiners finding that a veterans condition is due to normal wear and tear and the natural progression of aging rather than their time in service. Additionally, the rating criteria does not take other symptoms or daily limitations into account, such as difficulty sitting, standing, lifting, or bending. However, there are a few ways veterans can increase their DDD VA rating. Our legal team can provide you with quality and experienced representation that is going to help you receive the benefits you deserve. If degenerative arthritis is established by X-ray and is accompanied by satisfactory evidence of painful motion, it will be rated no less than 10-percent. Also Check: Can You Get Disability For Diabetes. You're not alone. This results in numerous unpleasant and painful symptoms in veterans that may include: Your specific symptoms will depend on where in the spine the nerve root is pinched. Military service puts a lot of stress on your body. Most Common Back Pain VA Claims and Ratings Among Veterans. It mostly occurs in your lower back or neck. If you have a disc problem, you may require surgery to replace it or to fusion your vertebrae. To receive an extraschedular disability rating, you must show the VA why your condition is worse than the 50% maximum. They are not intended as a guarantee that we will obtain the same or similar results in every case we undertake. But first, lets explore how the VA looks at Radiculopathyin more detail. These cookies dont collect information that identifies you. This uneven shift in weight may then contribute to complications in your lower back. Veterans who served in specified locations and time periods do not have to prove a connection between their sinusitis and service to be eligible for VA health care and disability compensation. His frustration with the8-step VA disability claims processled him to createVA Claims Insider,which provides U.S. military veterans with tips, strategies, and lessons learned for successfully submitting or re-submitting a winning VA disability compensation claim. If you are already a veteran, you can submit a VA Disability Claim along with evidence of service-connection and all medical records regarding the conditions on the claim. The percentage of arthritis of the back will be based on the number of joints/joint groups affected and the extent of incapacitation, with 10 being the most common. The joints involved should be tested for pain on both active and passive motion, in weight-bearing and non-weight-bearing and, if possible, with the range of the opposite undamaged joint. VA Disability Rating for Neck Pain Criteria VA uses 38 CFR 4.71a, General Rating Formula for Diseases and Injuries of the Spine to evaluate most neck pain conditions. 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. Back injuries are frequently reported after military service. 15-18 701 DATE: December 26, 2018 ORDER Entitlement to service connection for sleep apnea, secondary to service-connected lumbar degenerative disc disease (DDD) on a causation basis, is granted. The last lumbar vertebra articulates with thesacrum. To qualify for TDIU, you must show that your condition prevents you from securing and maintaining substantially gainful employment. Generally, you need to be denied at least once before an attorney can assist, but once a lawyer is involved they will often be able to quickly determine what needs to be done in order to prove entitlement. DOC 4 - Veterans Affairs Include. Furthermore, Depression is one of the most common comorbidities in veterans with chronic low back pain. Though back and neck conditions both stem from the spine in most instances, VA rates them as separate disabilities. Persistent and recurring symptoms of Degenerative Disc Disease (Severity of Symptoms), Difficulty walking because of a limited line of vision, Restricted opening of the mouth and chewing, Breathing limited to diaphragmatic respiration, Gastrointestinal symptoms due to pressure of the coastal margin on the abdomen, Alantoaxial or cervical subluxation or dislocation, Neurologic symptoms due to nerve root stretching, Better Business Bureau (BBB) Accredited Business. It is possible for migraines to develop as a result of changes in temperature, humidity, and barometric pressure. Youll also see the termUnfavorable Ankylosis,which is a condition in which the entire cervical spine, the entire thoracolumbar spine, or the entire spine is fixed in flexion or extension, and the ankylosis results in one or more of the following: VA disability ratings for Degenerative Disc Disease also depend upon Functional Loss, which means impairment of spine function as determined by range of motion as reported in the physical examination and additional loss of range of motion after repetitive use caused by the following factors: VA disability of the musculoskeletal system is primarily the inability, due to damage or infection in parts of the system, to perform the normal working movements of the body with normal excursion, strength, speed, coordination and endurance. Disability due to diseases (such as arthritis, degenerative joint or disc disease, or . Systemic DJD occurs when the Veteran gets a diagnosis of DJD in service (or within one year after release from active duty) when there is no record or evidence of trauma to the joint. In these cases, the VA now presumes a link between service and sinusitis, meaning that the veteran does not need to prove a connection. The speed and extent of deterioration are dependent on external factors. I have a 20% rating for arthritis in my back, but can I get more for degenerative disc disease? To receive an extraschedular disability rating under 38 CFR 3.321(b)(1) for degenerative disc disease, the following requirements must be met: It is important to note that extraschedular disability ratings are granted on a case-by-case basis and are very specific to each situation. VA Ratings for Intervertebral Disc Syndrome - Hill & Ponton, P.A. (1) Limitation of Range of Motion and (2) Pain are the two most common factors that determine your final VA rating for back conditions such as Degenerative Disc Disease. Neck conditions typically affect the cervical spine, which consists of seven bones that are separated by intervertebral discs. Degenerative disc disease is a common disability among Veterans. 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). These include aging, injury, and genetics. An attorney can help you find the evidence you need to make your argument. Degenerative Disc Disease is one of the most common causes of low back (lumbar), mid back (thoracic), and neck pain (cervical) in veterans. Military burn pits are large areas of land that were used by the United States military to incinerate waste in places such as Iraq and Afghanistan in the post-9/11 era. Entitlement to service connection for sleep apnea, secondary to service Pain that worsens when sitting (while seated, the discs of the lower back have 3x more load on them than when standing). To get TDIU, you may prove why your service-connected condition prevents you from working. Are you a veteran suffering from degenerative disc disease? If you developed degenerative disc disease as a result of military service, you may be eligible for disability benefits through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Extraschedular ratings are assigned when the rating criteria does not accurately reflect a veterans level of disability. Heavy lifting, family histories of back problems, and spine injuries are just a few of the factors that contribute to DDB. Call Us. A medical nexus, or link, between the in-service event and current diagnosis. In reality, there is no such thing as a cure for everything. Ill also reveal 3 new insider tips to increase your VA Rating for Degenerate Disc Disease, even if youve already filed or been denied. Brandon Callahan, MD is a board-certified orthopedic physician with a decade of experience in providing comprehensive orthopedic care to patients with musculoskeletal injuries and disorders. You must also provide evidence that shows a service connected disability to your military service. Government disability programs, no matter how well-intended, miss the mark in approving thousands of legitimate disability claims for degenerative disc disease. Which it turns out are more than just one item. FINDING OF FACT The evidence is at least evenly balanced as to whether the Veteran's obstructive That formula actually covers both the cervical and thoracolumbar parts of the spine. VA Disability Ratings for Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) Secondly, your condition needs to be able to meet any of the blue book listings for musculoskeletal diseases. Signup to never miss a beat with special offers, blog updates, exclusive trainings, and more delivered right to your inbox! will forward what benefits the VA is paying for a chronic sinusitis condition and how best to prove your need for disability compensation, along with other information and news about burn pit exposure. 5001 Bones and joints, tuberculosis of, active or inactive: Active 100 Inactive: See 4.88c and 4.89 5002 The VA rating for radiculopathy in the lower back will be based on symptoms felt in their lower limbs, such as feet, calves, or thighs. In these cases, the VA now presumes a link between service and sinusitis, meaning that the veteran does not need to prove a connection. However, if VA examiners arrive at this conclusion, they must provide adequate rationale to support their determination. You can live a normal life with the help of some pain relief techniques and a little effort. Just fill out the form and we will forward what benefits the VA is paying for the allergic rhinitis condition and how best to prove your need for disability compensation, along with other information and news about burn pit exposure. Degenerative disc disease is a condition that develops and progresses over time. However, if you can prove that your degenerative disc disease was connected to your military service, you will receive a disability rating from the VA. All of the medical documentation that you have gathered for your VA disability rating can be used as evidence in your SSDI application. Degenerative Disc Disease Disability Claim for Benefits degenerative disc disease is a progressive condition, meaning that it typically gets worse over time. Many factorscan lead to DDD, including heavy lifting, family history of spine problems, or spine injury. Social Security Medical Evaluations The measurements used for determining compensation are as follows: If you are still in the military, then you can request your military physician to refer you to the MEB and start the IDES process. The spine consists of four primary regions from yourneck down to your buttocks and pelvic area . Finally, we invite you to contact us and we welcome your calls, letters and electronic mail. The spinal disc is made up of a soft disc that separates your vertebrae and serves as a shock absorber in your spine. VA Disability Ratings for Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD), Learn About CCK's Partnership with DAV and Harvard Law School, - Learn About CCK's Partnership with DAV and Harvard Law School, Service Connection for Degenerative Disc Disease, Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exams for Degenerative Disc Disease, VA Disability Rating for Degenerative Disc Disease. There are different levels of pain associated with degenerative disc disease. This 20 percent rating or the 10 percent rating, when applicable, will be assigned once only to cover disability at all sites of previously active infection with a future ending date in the case of the 20 percent rating. VA rates degenerative disc disease under38 CFR 4.71a, Schedule of Ratings Musculoskeletal System, diagnostic code 5242. We have updated our Privacy Policy. If you have been diagnosed with a condition caused by military service, you may be eligible for disability benefits. There are a number of factors that can contribute to the development of degenerative disc disease. Degenerative Disc Disease VA Disability Benefits - Woods and Woods, LLC VA determines a disability rating based on the severity of symptoms, but anatomical damage and functional loss are also considered. Diagnosing and treating degeneration disc disease as soon as possible is critical to its early resolution. Getting a diagnosis as soon as possible, as well as having a pain management physician develop a treatment plan, are two of the most important steps to avoid complications. radiculopathy, myelopathy, urinary incontinence, frequency, mental health conditions, and so on are examples of secondary conditions and complications. The VA uses Diagnostic Codes (DCs) to rate disabilities. To recover service-connected compensation disability benefits for degenerative disc disease, you must meet a certain threshold required by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The VA could assign you a herniated disc disability rating from 10% to 100%. The SSA gets many applications for disability based on degenerative disc disease, and most of them get denied unless other physical or mental problems are present as well. Therefore, VA must determine if the veteran is eligible for a rating higher than the ones set forth by the rating schedule. VA Claims Insider Testimonial: Elite Success Story Dons been through a lot. Muscle spasm will greatly assist the identification. For example, if a Veteran experienced 4-6 weeks of incapacitating episodes in the past year, they can receive a 40% bulging disc VA disability rating. Estimate your 2023 VA Rating & Compensation for FREE! This will effectively increase your VA disability rating. Make Today The Last Day You Worry About Your Disability Claim. individual unemployability . Do you wonder what is the maximum disability rating for degenerative disc disease? Orthopedic conditions are typically categorized as those that impact the musculoskeletal system. The #1 best way to increase your VA rating for Degenerative Disc Disease is to get X-Rays so you have objective medical evidence to show the degradation of your discs over time. Call 512-454-4000 for Free Consultation. Questions for those familiar with spinal issues and ratings Degenerative disc disease refers to symptoms of back or neck pain caused by wear-and-tear on a spinal disc. Intervertebral disc syndrome is a common cause of back pain. If your degenerative disc disease develops over time, you can file a claim for secondary service connection when necessary. The discs between your vertebrae will lose their cushioning and begin to fragment, often causing them to herniate. Pain, numbness, weakness, or tingling in the extremities. We know the pain of feeling stuck, frustrated, and alone, and we want to make this process as easy and painless as possible for you. Degenerative disc disease is known to be a condition that develops over time. To achieve the full disability rating, you must complete all of the steps. Some of which are listed below: Diagnostic codes 5242 and 5243 are reserved for arthritis and spinal disc conditions. If you have recently filed a DDD claim or are considering one, the team at Hill can assist you. Physical therapy may help with muscle range of motion, while prescription medications may be used to alleviate pain. What Happens To My Medicare Disability When I Turn 65, Will I Lose My Disability If I Work Part Time. Attending a C& P exam with a medical professional can also potentially help you discover the presence of secondary conditions you were unaware of. These cookies may be set through our website by our advertising partners. A veteran receives a 100% rating if their entire spine is immovable because of a back injury. Can You Get Disability For Bulging Disc - DisabilityTalk.net The condition occurs when the discs between vertebrae lose cushioning, fragment, and herniate.Many factorscan lead to DDD, including heavy lifting, family. To receive a 30% rating or above, a veteran must prove ankylosis, which is joint stiffness caused by an injury or a disease. This condition necessitates that people avoid activities that are too heavy, such as running, jumping, and lifting heavy objects. They all go together, so make sure you work with an experienced lawyer to get ratings for all of them. The VA ratings for back pain reflect the seriousness of a veteran's mobility loss and how much their spine is affected. Many veterans with degenerative disc disease have been forced to live on the floor. There are a few ways that veterans can increase their DDD VA rating. Intervertebral Disc Syndrome (also known as IVDS) is a back condition involving the intervertebral disc or disc fragments. Just fill out the form and we. Veterans who struggle with mobility or chronic pain may be unable to find work. The average VA rating for degenerative disc disease is 30%. The VA uses diagnostic code 5003 to determine your degenerative disc disease disability rating. In the long run, the disc can become compressed, resulting in an extremely painful condition. Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) and application for changes in benefits It is possible for veterans with DDD to find relief by incorporating lifestyle changes, taking medications, or undergoing physical therapy. Many Vets have developed serious asthma even chronic asthma because of exposure to harmful burn pit pollutants.
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