86Spider

One other quick question on my claim..... In the 18 page packet it states they have my Air Force records and my local VA hospital records. I have no other information to present, should I check the first box on the VCAA Notice and have it "decided as soon as possible" or should I write a page (Statement in Support of Claim, VA-Form 21-4138) of symtoms and treatments from the VA hospital that they allready have? They have all the info I have! The VA doctor is the one that found the arthritis in x-rays and attributed my pain to that and prescribed numerous meds to try to relieve it, not much help by the way!! Thanks- Mark

Thanks Carlie! I just recieved an 18 page packet from the VA asking for a Statement in Support of Claim and Authorization and Consent to Release Information.... As far as Diagnostic codes; It appears they are looking at 5003 Degenerative Arthritis I have a hard time doing simple things, for instance driving. My neck hurts so bad after an hour I need to rest it on the head rest of our minivan, I can't sit for any lenght of time without getting up and moving my left knee or it will cramp up.....I'm too young for this kind of arthritis pain!!

I just submitted my claim forms for arthritis, I retired from the Air Force 5 years ago and there was no record of arthritis then but I have it now! My VA Dr. has perscribed medication and taken x-rays of my neck, shoulder and knee. I do have a service connected rating for my knee and back. I think the arthritis is somehow related because I am fairly young for this..... Any idea if this has been done, what I should do, or any advice? Thanks......... .