To answer your Questions...
1) In 2005 The C&P Examiner Opined that the Back injury was "as Likely as not..." (Which should have caused them to rule in my favor) but the Rating specialist Denied based on two factors... 1) He couldnt find it in my Military Medical Record (Duh! They didnt do the MRI til 10 yrs later!) and 2) They claimed I hadnt shown for my C&P. Ummm...the Examiner rendered an opinion based upon the exam!
To me honest, I got sick of the VA's shenanigans and walked away for several years. at the time ?I could afford my own medical...that is no longer the case.
2) I had a C&P done, Yes. In fact they even did an extra one. that was the first time I was ever sent for multiple C&Ps...it rather surprised me.
3) Yes, the X-Ray was done by the VA...as was the MRI. The X-Ray did not initially reveal the damage and I was told by the X-Ray Tech that spinal fractures do not always show on X-Rays.
4) As for SSDI, I recently found out I don't have enough recent credits to qualify since I havent been able to work since 2005.
5) The Test for the Spinal Damage (Spinal contusion) was performed by the VA Doctor who specializes in Spinal Injuries and Rehabilitative Medicine. I believe it was her detailed notes that got me the jump in my current disability. She is actually with UCDavis but works with the VA as part of the partnership between the VAMC and the UCDavis Medical School. They just started treating the Back issue a few years ago when my financial situation deteriorated enough to where the VA started giving me full medical treatment. Unfortunately I wasnt eligible until then...
I do have the Decision info but dont have my scanner up and running at the moment.
I am aware of many of the tricks and games the VARO's can play and I am watching the timeline very closely.
When I filed my reconsideration I summed up the disability, the NEXUS, and the proper decision in 16 pt type, bolded, in red with yellow highlight, and then attached a copy of the CFR that applied. If they happen to rule against me then, on appeal, its going to make the Rating Specialist look REALLY bad! lol
As for the TDIU Paperwork, I provided a detailed list of my meds and dosages. Even the average layperson has some understanding of how narcotic pain killers, especially at their max dosage, can affect a persons mental clarity, so I imagine that should work in my favor.
I apologize for the delay in my response. I kind of have to type this up in parts since sitting too long is a bit of an issue these days. Thanks to all of you who responded with very helpful information.
I just have one question for SVR...
I am not clear on how this matter might be a 1151 Issue? I thought that was predominantly used for injuries sustained as the direct result of a VA action or while participating in Voc Rehab? Could you elaborate?