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whoami?
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Posts posted by whoami?
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whoami, just ready to appeal their decision if it's not in your favor. Good luck and keep us posted on your health and the rating
I will keep everyone updated on my status. This process is making me very unstable. I feel like I don't know what to do myself in anticipation of what the VA is going to say. As far as appealing do you have any specific recommendations? I also gave my VSO a copy of my SSDI award letter, I think he is going to submit a copy to the RO. I am hoping that if my PTSD isn't 100% schedular the SSDI award will help me get TDIU.
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I think since she has/was reading your file, she had a very good idea of your problem, and felt no reason to drag you thru the ordeal again. I had a C&P a few months back and it was also very short.I was worried that this was not going to go in my favor. But it did, my heart disability went from 10% to 60% and my PTSD went from 50% to 70%, but my hearing went from 50% to 20%. I don't know how that happen. I have been thinking I need to
appeal that. I guess I will in the near future, like next week. So hang in there, it could be in your favor. You just have to sit back and wait, but be getting ready to file an appeal if you have to.
Thanks for your support Hollis. I know she had read my file because the questions she asked me were related to information in my file so I guess I am not worried about it not being in my favor I am just really wondering what percent the VA will rate my PTSD. Its clearly not at the 30% rate anymore and hasn't been for a long time. I have criteria that meet the 70-100% rating. I'm really hoping for the best but I always prepare for the worst when it comes to the VA.
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I think it could be good news that she had seen pretty much all she needed to in the records and meeting you was a formality.
Regardless, get copy when you can and let us know.
We're rooting for you!
Thanks and I will. I am checking everyday multiple times. I can't help myself. The anxiety is through the roof right now.
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Congratulations.
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I feel its good news
I feel the same way. She could see I was visibly shaken having had to come to the exam, she tried to calm me down but the only thing that helped was when she said we were done and I flew out the door.
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A fast exam is something to be concerned about. You should request a copy if you had it at a VA Medical Facility.
Pete I feel the same way I was prepared for a long interview but less than ten minutes I was really shocked. I really don't trust the VA but it appears she had been reading my C-File so when I came in she could see I was extremely anxious and she assured me the exam would be short and that she only had a few questions for me. It was just one question I feel I wasn't allowed to explain in more detail but I guess I am nit picking. I have to wait and see her report then I shall get advice from you guys and go from there. You guys are awesome.
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Well at least your part is done and you can relax a bit now.
Since it is for an increase and you already have the service connection, they didn't really need to go over everything again.
It should be on MyHealthE Vet > Blue Button downloads> Notes in 3 to 5 business days.
I'm crossing my fingers for ya!
I actually thought that getting this exam out of the way would give me some relief.......nope quite the opposite I can't even sleep so I don't know what I am going to do while the examiner finishes her report, then the wait game for the rater to complete my FDC.
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Thanks Navy,
I guess I am worried about what the examiner is going to send to the rater. This is the part where I usually get screwed/low balled. How long do you think it will take for her exam to upload to my healthy vet.
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I am very nervous right now. I just had my C&P exam with the VA and it went so quick I don't know what happened. The exam took less than ten minutes. I guess the examiner had already read my file. She only had a few questions for me but I felt like I had so much other stuff I wanted to tell her but my anxiety was so high I just answered her questions and quickly left the room. Once I get a copy of what she wrote I will give you guys an update.
- Me1984 and KittyHammertoe
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Anyone have an insight for an upcoming C&P for PTSD already sc'd for increase?
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I think before vets go for these subjective exams they should consult with Hadit.
John I have another C&P for PTSD this week. Do you have any advice for me? I am currently service connected for ptsd but it has gotten progressively worse since I was diagnosed in 2009. I am taking five medications to manage the symptoms but they really aren't working. I have failed out of school due to poor concentration and I currently don't have a job. I am currently recieving SSDI. The examiner mentioned that working will be a problem for me because of my back pain he said the same thing about my shoulder issue. How should I proceed John?
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Sorry for not putting all the information. This C&P was for an increase for my lower back pain . I also added sciatic pain that runs down the back of my legs. From what I understand the radiculpathy is rated individually in addition to the back pain.
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Thanks for your response NYNurse. I will keep you informed as to the findings in my case for this issue. Please keep me informed with you guys' progresss also. Thanks.
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Please delete this is a duplicate.
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Please let me know what you guys think my rating will be based on this C&P exam. Thanks.Back (Thoracolumbar Spine) ConditionsDisability Benefits QuestionnaireName of patient/Veteran:Indicate method used to obtain medical information to complete thisdocument:[ ] Review of available records (without in-person or video telehealthexamination) using the Acceptable Clinical Evidence (ACE) processbecausethe existing medical evidence provided sufficient information on whichtoprepare the DBQ and such an examination will likely provide noadditionalrelevant evidence.[ ] Review of available records in conjunction with a telephone interviewwith the Veteran (without in-person or telehealth examination) using theACE process because the existing medical evidence supplemented with atelephone interview provided sufficient information on which to preparethe DBQ and such an examination would likely provide no additionalrelevant evidence.[ ] Examination via approved video telehealth[X] In-person examinationEvidence review---------------Was the Veteran's VA claims file reviewed?[X] Yes [ ] NoIf yes, list any records that were reviewed but were not included in theVeteran's VA claims file:VBMSIf no, check all records reviewed:[ ] Military service treatment records[ ] Military service personnel records[ ] Military enlistment examination[ ] Military separation examination[ ] Military post-deployment questionnaire[ ] Department of Defense Form 214 Separation Documents[ ] Veterans Health Administration medical records (VA treatmentrecords)[ ] Civilian medical records[ ] Interviews with collateral witnesses (family and others who haveknown the Veteran before and after military service)[ ] No records were reviewed[ ] Other:1. Diagnosis------------Does the Veteran now have or has he/she ever been diagnosed with athoracolumbar spine (back) condition?[X] Yes [ ] NoThoracolumbar Common Diagnoses:[ ] Ankylosing spondylitis[X] Lumbosacral strain[ ] Degenerative arthritis of the spine[ ] Intervertebral disc syndrome[ ] Sacroiliac injury[ ] Sacroiliac weakness[ ] Segmental instability[ ] Spinal fusion[ ] Spinal stenosis[ ] Spondylolisthesis[ ] Vertebral dislocation[ ] Vertebral fractureDiagnosis #1:ICD code: 847Date of diagnosis: Already connected2. Medical history------------------Describe the history (including onset and course) of the Veteran'sthoracolumbar spine (back) condition (brief summary):He states that he has constant pain in the lower back that radiates downhis legs at times. He states that he has pain with bending. He statesthatthe pain is severe. He is currently on Lortab and Toradol for a kneesurgery that he had yesterday, so the pain is not as bad today.3. Flare-ups------------Does the Veteran report that flare-ups impact the function of thethoracolumbar spine (back)?[X] Yes [ ] NoIf yes, document the Veteran's description of the impact of flare-upsinhis or her own words:The veteran states that pain flares up with excessive use. Pain,weakness, fatigability or incoordination could significantly limitfunctional ability during flare ups of after repeated use. However tospecify to the amount of limited functional ability would be resortingto mere speculation as I can not exam the veteran under theseconditions.4. Initial range of motion (ROM) measurement--------------------------------------------a. Select where forward flexion ends (normal endpoint is 90):[ ] 0 [ ] 5 [ ] 10 [ ] 15 [ ] 20[ ] 25 [ ] 30 [ ] 35 [ ] 40 [ ] 45[X] 50 [ ] 55 [ ] 60 [ ] 65 [ ] 70[ ] 75 [ ] 80 [ ] 85 [ ] 90 or greaterSelect where objective evidence of painful motion begins:[ ] No objective evidence of painful motion[ ] 0 [ ] 5 [ ] 10 [ ] 15 [ ] 20[ ] 25 [ ] 30 [ ] 35 [ ] 40 [X] 45[ ] 50 [ ] 55 [ ] 60 [ ] 65 [ ] 70[ ] 75 [ ] 80 [ ] 85 [ ] 90 or greaterb. Select where extension ends (normal endpoint is 30):[ ] 0 [ ] 5 [X] 10 [ ] 15 [ ] 20[ ] 25 [ ] 30 or greaterSelect where objective evidence of painful motion begins:[ ] No objective evidence of painful motion[ ] 0 [ ] 5 [X] 10 [ ] 15 [ ] 20[ ] 25 [ ] 30 or greaterc. Select where right lateral flexion ends (normal endpoint is 30):[ ] 0 [ ] 5 [ ] 10 [X] 15 [ ] 20[ ] 25 [ ] 30 or greaterSelect where objective evidence of painful motion begins:[ ] No objective evidence of painful motion[ ] 0 [ ] 5 [ ] 10 [X] 15 [ ] 20[ ] 25 [ ] 30 or greaterd. Select where left lateral flexion ends (normal endpoint is 30):[ ] 0 [ ] 5 [ ] 10 [X] 15 [ ] 20[ ] 25 [ ] 30 or greaterSelect where objective evidence of painful motion begins:[ ] No objective evidence of painful motion[ ] 0 [ ] 5 [ ] 10 [X] 15 [ ] 20[ ] 25 [ ] 30 or greatere. Select where right lateral rotation ends (normal endpoint is 30):[ ] 0 [ ] 5 [ ] 10 [X] 15 [ ] 20 [ ] 25[ ] 30 or greaterSelect where objective evidence of painful motion begins:[ ] No objective evidence of painful motion[ ] 0 [ ] 5 [ ] 10 [X] 15 [ ] 20 [ ] 25[ ] 30 or greaterf. Select where left lateral rotation ends (normal endpoint is 30):[ ] 0 [ ] 5 [ ] 10 [X] 15 [ ] 20 [ ] 25[ ] 30 or greaterSelect where objective evidence of painful motion begins:[ ] No objective evidence of painful motion[ ] 0 [ ] 5 [ ] 10 [X] 15 [ ] 20 [ ] 25[ ] 30 or greaterg. If ROM for this Veteran does not conform to the normal range of motionidentified above but is normal for this Veteran (for reasons other than aback condition, such as age, body habitus, neurologic disease), explain:No response provided.5. ROM measurement after repetitive use testing-----------------------------------------------a. Is the Veteran able to perform repetitive-use testing with 3 repetitions?[ ] Yes [X] NoIf unable, provide reason:Too painful.6. Functional loss and additional limitation in ROM---------------------------------------------------a. Does the Veteran have additional limitation in ROM of the thoracolumbarspine (back) following repetitive-use testing?[ ] Yes [X] Nob. Does the Veteran have any functional loss and/or functional impairment ofthe thoracolumbar spine (back)?[X] Yes [ ] Noc. If the Veteran has functional loss, functional impairment and/oradditional limitation of ROM of the thoracolumbar spine (back) afterrepetitive use, indicate the contributing factors of disability below:[X] Less movement than normal[X] Pain on movement[X] Interference with sitting, standing and/or weight-bearing7. Pain and muscle spasm (pain on palpation, effect of muscle spasm on gait)----------------------------------------------------------------------------a. Does the Veteran have localized tenderness or pain to palpation forjointsand/or soft tissue of the thoracolumbar spine (back)?[ ] Yes [X] Nob. Does the Veteran have muscle spasm of the thoracolumbar spine resultinginabnormal gait or abnormal spinal countour?[ ] Yes [X] Noc. Does the Veteran have muscle spasms of the thoracolumbar spine notresulting in abnormal gait or abnormal spinal countour?[ ] Yes [X] Nod. Does the Veteran have guarding of the thoracolumbar spine resulting inabnormal gait or abnormal spinal countour?[ ] Yes [X] Noe. Does the Veteran have guarding of the thoracolumbar spine not resultinginabnormal gait or abnormal spinal countour?[ ] Yes [X] No8. Muscle strength testing--------------------------a. Rate strength according to the following scale:0/5 No muscle movement1/5 Palpable or visible muscle contraction, but no joint movement2/5 Active movement with gravity eliminated3/5 Active movement against gravity4/5 Active movement against some resistance5/5 Normal strengthHip flexion:Right: [X] 5/5 [ ] 4/5 [ ] 3/5 [ ] 2/5 [ ] 1/5 [ ] 0/5Left: [X] 5/5 [ ] 4/5 [ ] 3/5 [ ] 2/5 [ ] 1/5 [ ] 0/5Knee extension:Right: [X] 5/5 [ ] 4/5 [ ] 3/5 [ ] 2/5 [ ] 1/5 [ ] 0/5Left: [X] 5/5 [ ] 4/5 [ ] 3/5 [ ] 2/5 [ ] 1/5 [ ] 0/5Ankle plantar flexion:Right: [X] 5/5 [ ] 4/5 [ ] 3/5 [ ] 2/5 [ ] 1/5 [ ] 0/5Left: [X] 5/5 [ ] 4/5 [ ] 3/5 [ ] 2/5 [ ] 1/5 [ ] 0/5Ankle dorsiflexion:Right: [X] 5/5 [ ] 4/5 [ ] 3/5 [ ] 2/5 [ ] 1/5 [ ] 0/5Left: [X] 5/5 [ ] 4/5 [ ] 3/5 [ ] 2/5 [ ] 1/5 [ ] 0/5Great toe extension:Right: [X] 5/5 [ ] 4/5 [ ] 3/5 [ ] 2/5 [ ] 1/5 [ ] 0/5Left: [X] 5/5 [ ] 4/5 [ ] 3/5 [ ] 2/5 [ ] 1/5 [ ] 0/5b. Does the Veteran have muscle atrophy?[ ] Yes [X] No9. Reflex exam--------------Rate deep tendon reflexes (DTRs) according to the following scale:0 Absent1+ Hypoactive2+ Normal3+ Hyperactive without clonus4+ Hyperactive with clonusKnee:Right: [ ] 0 [ ] 1+ [X] 2+ [ ] 3+ [ ] 4+Left: [ ] 0 [ ] 1+ [X] 2+ [ ] 3+ [ ] 4+Ankle:Right: [ ] 0 [ ] 1+ [X] 2+ [ ] 3+ [ ] 4+Left: [ ] 0 [ ] 1+ [X] 2+ [ ] 3+ [ ] 4+10. Sensory exam----------------Provide results for sensation to light touch (dermatome) testing:Upper anterior thigh (L2):Right: [X] Normal [ ] Decreased [ ] AbsentLeft: [X] Normal [ ] Decreased [ ] AbsentThigh/knee (L3/4):Right: [X] Normal [ ] Decreased [ ] AbsentLeft: [X] Normal [ ] Decreased [ ] AbsentLower leg/ankle (L4/L5/S1):Right: [X] Normal [ ] Decreased [ ] AbsentLeft: [X] Normal [ ] Decreased [ ] AbsentFoot/toes (L5):Right: [ ] Normal [X] Decreased [ ] AbsentLeft: [ ] Normal [X] Decreased [ ] Absent11. Straight leg raising test-----------------------------Provide straight leg raising test results:Right: [ ] Negative [X] Positive [ ] Unable to performLeft: [ ] Negative [X] Positive [ ] Unable to perform12. Radiculopathy-----------------Does the Veteran have radicular pain or any other signs or symptoms due toradiculopathy?[X] Yes [ ] Noa. Indicate symptoms' location and severity (check all that apply):Constant pain (may be excruciating at times)Right lower extremity: [X] None [ ] Mild [ ] Moderate [ ] SevereLeft lower extremity: [X] None [ ] Mild [ ] Moderate [ ] SevereIntermittent pain (usually dull)Right lower extremity: [ ] None [X] Mild [ ] Moderate [ ] SevereLeft lower extremity: [ ] None [ ] Mild [X] Moderate [ ] SevereParesthesias and/or dysesthesiasRight lower extremity: [ ] None [X] Mild [ ] Moderate [ ] SevereLeft lower extremity: [ ] None [ ] Mild [X] Moderate [ ] SevereNumbnessRight lower extremity: [ ] None [X] Mild [ ] Moderate [ ] SevereLeft lower extremity: [ ] None [ ] Mild [X] Moderate [ ] Severeb. Does the Veteran have any other signs or symptoms of radiculopathy?[ ] Yes [X] Noc. Indicate nerve roots involved: (check all that apply)[X] Involvement of L4/L5/S1/S2/S3 nerve roots (sciatic nerve)If checked, indicate: [ ] Right [ ] Left [X] Bothd. Indicate severity of radiculopathy and side affected:Right: [ ] Not affected [X] Mild [ ] Moderate [ ] SevereLeft: [ ] Not affected [ ] Mild [X] Moderate [ ] Severe13. Ankylosis-------------Is there ankylosis of the spine? [ ] Yes [X] No14. Other neurologic abnormalities----------------------------------Does the Veteran have any other neurologic abnormalities or findings relatedto a thoracolumbar spine (back) condition (such as bowel or bladderproblems/pathologic reflexes)?[ ] Yes [X] No15. Intervertebral disc syndrome (IVDS) and incapacitating episodes-------------------------------------------------------------------a. Does the Veteran have IVDS of the thoracolumbar spine?[ ] Yes [X] No16. Assistive devices---------------------a. Does the Veteran use any assistive device(s) as a normal mode oflocomotion, although occasional locomotion by other methods may bepossible?[X] Yes [ ] NoIdentify assistive device(s) used:Assistive Device: Frequency of use:----------------- -----------------[X] Walker [ ] Occasional [ ] Regular [X] Constantb. If the Veteran uses any assistive devices, specify the condition andidentify the assistive device used for each condition:Walker is due to knee surgery that he had yesterday.17. Remaining effective function of the extremities---------------------------------------------------Due to a thoracolumbar spine (back) condition, is there functionalimpairmentof an extremity such that no effective function remains other than thatwhichwould be equally well served by an amputation with prosthesis? (Functions ofthe upper extremity include grasping, manipulation, etc.; functions of thelower extremity include balance and propulsion, etc.)[X] No18. Other pertinent physical findings, complications, conditions, signsand/or symptoms-----------------------------------------------------------------------a. Does the Veteran have any scars (surgical or otherwise) related to anyconditions or to the treatment of any conditions listed in the Diagnosissection above?[ ] Yes [X] Nob. Does the Veteran have any other pertinent physical findings,complications, conditions, signs or symptoms?[ ] Yes [X] No19. Diagnostic testing----------------------a. Have imaging studies of the thoracolumbar spine been performed and aretheresults available?[ ] Yes [X] Nob. Does the Veteran have a thoracic vertebral fracture with loss of 50percent or more of height?[ ] Yes [X] Noc. Are there any other significant diagnostic test findings and/or results?[ ] Yes [X] No20. Functional impact---------------------Does the Veteran's thoracolumbar spine (back) condition impact on his orherability to work?[X] Yes [ ] NoIf yes describe the impact of each of the Veteran'sthoracolumbarspine (back) conditions providing one or more examples:He would be unable to walk or stand for extended periods.21. REMARKS-----------a. Remarks, if any:No comments provided.b. Mitchell criteria:The veteran states that pain flares up with excessive use. Pain,weakness, fatigability or incoordination could significantly limitfunctional ability during flare ups of after repeated use. However tospecify to the amount of limited functional ability would be resortingtomere speculation as I can not exam the veteran under these conditions.
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Congratulations and thanks for all you do!
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Status update dx'd prazosin and trazadone because I ended up in the emergency room with a 12 hour priapism. Dr. added mirtazapine instead. I think its working but now my tongue feels like its been stung by some bees on stabbed with a fork a bunch of times. Also I have severe dry mouth from the medications combined. Not sure which one really.
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I applied for SSDI and SSI about a month ago. I based SSI off of my monthly work income of 500 dollars, and SSDI I am using PTSD. I had a phone interview yesterday. The interviewer asked me some questions about PTSD and asked about the three references which are my healthcare providers and my wife. The examiner wants to speak with my wife what types of questions can she expect to be asked?
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That was a pretty quick turnaround for VA. Congratulations.
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Just got a letter in the mail from VA informing me that they are working on my claim......that was a waste of paper. I was hoping that you were working on but thanks for letting me know my hopes aren't being wasted. Also I am getting a little frustrated with the waiting game. I know we all have to hurry up and wait but it is my truest belief that my current ptsd rating is severely low. I am ashamed to even go and ask for any help knowing the same people are bending me over and going to town on my rear end while they pretend to care about me and my mental health with smiles to my face. My rump is so sore....But I am doing my best to stay in the fight. Many days I just want to give up I know they'd rather me give up than fight but at times I just cant take it anymore.....well at least they gave me all kinds of pills to keep me in a zombie mode...I guess all is well.
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I hope that she does the right thing in your case. I am beginning to distrust my care providers at the VA. I am trying to trust them but at times I am not sure they have my best interests at heart. But good luck to you sir.
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Hello everyone, I am sc'd at 0% for both knees. I recently had an MRI and I have ruptured my acl and torm my mcl. My PCP wants me to have surgery. I was told as long as the surgery is for a sc'd disability I could file a form and be compensated at the 100% level if my recovery will be over 21 days. Can anyone tell me what forms I need or what steps I need to take before I have this surgery? Thanks.
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Wow! That's great news. I know you must feel relieved to finally have this hassle settled. Congratulations.
Just Had Ptsd C&p With Va
in Veterans Compensation & Pension Exams
Posted
Thanks for your support PainterBK, at this point the anxiety is so bad that I just can't focus. My head hurts my back hurts everything is hurting. I can't sleep. I feel miserable.