Am 72, retired, Vietnam Vet, 4 years active 23 years active reserve and NG, Military pension. Had HPV-16 virus in tongue and applied for AO connection but was denied. Getting SC 90% disability for: Tinnitus 10%, Agent Orange diabetes II 20%, left and right hand nephropathy. 20% each. Lumbarsacrol strain arthritis of spine, inverterbrae disc syndrome and lower lumbar spondylosis 40%, SC for radiculopathy was 10% for both feet then denied as being pinched nerve from back that was not considered SC. In the military, fell off a helicopter (AH-1) while postflighting. Fell on left side bounced on wing, then metal weapons pod, and then concrete. Broke left wrist, Worked my way back to active flight status and left unit after getting static about passing an alternative PT test. Went to Reserve unit and just toughed it out till retirement. Went to chiropractors from 1992 till present to stay flying with Reserves and airline till retirement. Still seeing chiropractors. Even though have documented hip problems, VA says no record of diagnosis on active duty or reserves status so denying service connection for post service pain and disability.
The Veteran Service Officer working with me from local County is directing me to go in for a TDIU supplemental claim, as with my 40% and other disabilities I would qualify for TDIU. Originally told me that it was a formality since I had all the 'requirements' - but VA now bringing me back in for a full exam. Is this normal? Any advice on what to bring up or not? While in constant pain from back, neck and shoulder - I feel stupid for doing this with already a 90% rating with all the guys and gals with WORSE conditions than I have. Plus am retired already with a pension. Anyway the items they will check are below. I will try to look up the number here on the web site. Thanks for any input, guidance of what to bring up or not during exam.
DBQ MUSC BACK (THORACOLUMBAR SPINE CONDITIONS
DBQ NECK (CERVICAL SPINE) CONDITION
DBQ NEURO PERIPHERAL NERVES CONDITIONS EXCEPT DIABETIC NEUROPATHY
DBQ MUSC SHOULDER AND ARM CONDITIONS
CPT 90354, CPT 99090