Ivds/ddd And Spinal Fusion? Post-op

[Quint7]

Hi all, I'm almost 3 weeks post-op for a L4-5 spinal fusion (feel better than in 10 years!) and I am about 5 weeks post DRO hearing seeking SC for IVDS/DDD.

My question is, if I ever get another exam (as the DRO hearing officer said she wanted me to have), should I make a point of the fact that although I NOW have a spinal fusion at one level (L4-5), I STILL have IVDS/DDD at the next level down (L5-S1) and therefore should be service connected for BOTH. Not compensated, but SC. I don't think that now I will have any ratable issues from the IVDS/DDD in the short term other than surgery induced limited range of motion, and I'm pretty sure that a spinal fusion is an automatic 40%.

My issue is that the effects of IVDS/DDD don't go away, the fusion will put stress on the next level higher and therefore I want the VA to list me as SC for BOTH IVDS/DDD and the Fusion that resulted from it.

Any thoughts? I know seeking comp. for both at this time would be pyramiding..... or at least I think it would.

Thanks!

[jbasser]

That's true, John, it does say the "entire" tc spine. Thanks for pointing that out. I would still say a 40% rating would be safe bet for Quint, though, because the loss of ROM will be significant. I am at 15* forward flexion without a fusion. All of my facet joints have grown together and don't allow for flexion any more.

I hate to hear that Shane. 15 Degrees. How the heck do you tie your shoes? That SUX.

J

[rentalguy1]

How the heck do you tie your shoes?

The wife :D

Sometimes I have good days and get a bit more than that, but I haven't had one of those since the weather turned cold.

[mike/3/8/cav]

Wow you guys,I thought my back hurt with 2 fused c-3/4 and disc bulg at c-4/5, but I wont complain as your pretty messed up, sorry you are but I can tie my shoes, not, I wear slip ons.

[rentalguy1]

slip ons...lol

I screw with my wife and only wear my Red Wing steel toe work boots every day :D Hey, at least I don't make her blouse my trousers...

[Quint7]

Ugh........... I had to buy Crocs.... with fuzzy inserts cause it's 3 degrees here. I'm so ashamed.........

Mike, are you SC for your fusions? Maybe you can shed a litle light on how they rated you if you are.

[vmo]

I am s/c for L5-S1 fusion,severe degen.arthritis,spondy, sciatic, etc. They (VA) paid no attention to favorable/unfav ankylosis with the fusion. Rated lumbar strain because of limited range of motion. Currently pending DRO. I kinda believe they like to treat the "fusions", as--now your fixed and near normal, yea right!!