skinswin

I just completed my C&P for a SC increase. The doctor(yes an actual doctor) was very thorough. She went down the list asking how my most recent surgery (2-level fusion 3/15/07) affected my daily life due to pain and motion limitations. She measured me at <20% range of motion for all lumbar tests and <10% before pain during range of motion. She also showed me on computer where she put in how it affected my daily life. Example:(bathing, dressing, sitting, walking, sex life etc). She also noted the numbness from the inguinal surgery(5/2/07). She stated that she made no recommendations on what % I would receive. She said that was done at the ratings board. She was very kind and sympathetic to my injuries. Is she correct in stating that she makes no recommendations on what %? ALso, how long until I'm able to get a copy of the C&P and how long before I find out what % I will receive. Just some more info for those in Nebraska. I live in NE and filed on April 26th, 2007 for an SC increase and for temp convalescence due to surgeries. On July 5th I received my temp 100% convalescence and got my retro deposit on 7/10. Pretty fast? I don't know, but it seemed fast to me. Thanks to everyone here for their posts and advice prior to the exam. Jeff

Thanks for all the info. I guess I'm hoping to go from 40% to 60% for my back. After 3 additional surgeries including the last one being a multi-level fusion. My motion is severely limited. I have to quit my current job. And still being in pain. I hope I get the 60%. Also, I guess I'm looking at going from a 0% SC inguinal hernia to a 10% since I just had surgery. So....using VA math 60+10+20(SC Shoulder)= 70%!!! I don't know if being on depression meds for the past 4 years due to the continual pain would change anything or not. But again thanks to all. If anyone has any other tidbits, feel free to let me know. Jeff

Vikes, I have a 0% SC for my hernia already. And I filed for SS disability as well. I'll get the form and do the UI. Will that conflict with my temp 100% at all? THanks, Jeff

Thanks Berta!!! Can I file for IU now or do I have to wait until after my C&P? I was under the impression I had to have my rating re-evaled then file for IU. Thanks again! Jeff

First, I just want to say thanks for this forum!! I just found this site and love the information I've read so far. I'm 50% service disabled(40% back, 20% shoulder 0% hernia) I had back surgery while active duty in the lower back(L4-L5 diskectomy). I had additional surgeries in the same part of my lower back in 1998 and 1999. I did not apply for reconsideration of my rating at that time. I know, I know I was an idiot!!!! Now this year I had the same problem again with my lower back. Only this time it was worse and they had to do a back fusion at 2 levels of my lower back. This is my 4th surgery(Mar 15) in the same service connected location on my back. I've been on convalesent leave since Feb and I'm having to quit my job due to my inability to perform certain tasks. My doc says I can't even think about going back to work until mid June. I filed for temp 100%. My service officer told me this would trigger an immediate re-evaluation of my rating. Also, due to this last surgery in March I've had to have hernia surgery(SC) due to the strain of not being able to use my back muscles. My question is do you think my ratings will go up for my back and hernia? If so, what percentages do you think I'll get? My local Veteran Service Officer says that regardless of rating I should apply for IU. I'm new to this whole game so any advice, recommendations would be welcome. Again, thanks to everyone for this forum and for the willingness to help each other out. Thanks, Jeff