I am 100% IU for over 21 years (degenerative arthritis, lumbar strain, ruptured disc, inner body fusion
with pedicle rods/screws) plus SMC-S (60% cervical arthritis, radiculopathy of both upper extremities-
with crippled drawn hands, no grip, no strength).
I was recently granted in OCT 2022 100%PT with elgibility to SAH (loss of use of lower extremities)
due to radiculopathy, stress fractures - shin splints (residual), arthritis, flexion, extension, instability.
I was NOT given any increase in my pay- I was under the understanding that loss of use should
be inferred automatically to SMC-L….but was not for me.
The decision did say there was a compensation issue on appeal that would be reviewed according to
AMA guidelines. (Their VA doctor said I in fact need A/A due to ADL’s (3) due to the radiculopathy, IVDS-
cervical arthritis, helplessness) Should I have be bumped with the new ratings to SMC-L or L1/2 or is
it necessary to wait on this compensation issue the judge was talking about. (Which I guess I don’t have
a choice but to wait) What should I be rated at? Should I be receiving SMC-L or more? Why wasn’t
SMC -L automatically given?
MY current RATINGS:
100% IU PT
60% SMC -S
100% PT Loss of use of LE
Thank you kindly-any advice is appreciated.