This is my first post. This site provided information, help and comfort during the initial C&P evaluation. Thank you to all!
My question:
I was recently given a 40% rating for degenerative disc diease in lower back with sciatica in both legs after a simple shoe tying incident lead to the discovery of 3 bulging discs and degenerative disc diease. Prior to my SC rating, I had completed a masters degree and I want to know if this would be covered under voc rehab based the background below:
Background:
My job prior to completing my masters degree involved lots of heavy lifting and physical field labor. I love the industry I work in and managerial positions are generally held by those with many years of experience and/or a masters degree. After experiencing several years of continued back pain and discomfort from field work, my wife and I decided that I should complete a masters degree and seek a managerial/office role. The completion of my masters degree has allowed me to obtain a managerial position with the same company and greatly reduce the continued back pain and discomfort I previously experience.
Ratings background:
I was originally given a 0% SC rating for my back injury 17 years ago when I was working on my undergraduate degree, did not have medical insurance and needed medical care. I did not go through a C&P 15 years ago, but just showed up at a local VA facility needing stitches. During this visit, the VA apparently gave me a service connection for a back injury I suffered during active duty. It was 16 years later when my simple shoe tying incident prompted my regular doctor to ask if I had ever injured my back, that I sought VA care and found out I needed a C&P evaluation.
I would like to seek retroactive voc rehab for my masters degree. Given the above data; is this possible?
Thank you so much in advance for your replies!