Received Rating Decision On Saturday, Have A Few Questions

[pilgrim01]

I received the brown envelope on Saturday. They gave me 30% for one claim and 10% for another (40% total). In reference to my other post about whether to do a NOD or Request for Reconsideration, how is the calculation done? I know it should be favorable for me to get additional disability due to my current back problems which I explained in my other post. I had a claim for numbness/tingling from my lower back down the back of my right leg. They gave me NOTHING for that claim! I went to the doctor again about a month ago (while waiting for a decision) and my NEW doctor had x-rays and a mri done. Back problems discovered, but the VA gave me nothing for that claim. Now, I need to do a Request for Reconsideration, right? So, let's say they give me another 10% (hopefully more) for my back, would they re-calculate 30%, 10%, 10% or would the re-calculate 40% and 10%? Please advise. Thanks!

My MRI results are too much to type but they do mention nerve roots, protrusions, etc.

Also, during my exam the doc said I had tinea pedis which is athlete's foot. :-) I didn't make a claim for it. Can I make a claim that now since the doc wrote that in is exam notes?

Edited March 23, 2009 by pilgrim01

[jbasser]

The VA will notice an issue on a record and infer it if a claim is not filed.

It always pays to view the Service Medical records and the Claims folder.

J

[carlie]

Medical statements regarding possible Service Connection:

Is due to- 100%

More likely than not- Greater than 50%

At least as likely as not- 50% (Benefit of doubt goes to Vet)

Not at least as likely as not- Less than 50%

Is not due to- 0%

[pilgrim01]

Jbasser,

You mentioned I could submit seperate claim(s) for my nerve roots for Radiculopathy. In the diagnosis the doctor wrote up, he references the L1 nerve root and the L4 nerve root. I can't find anything on "nerve roots" in CFR.

[rentalguy1]

Start reading here...

Then read this for your spine claim

[pilgrim01]

Thanks, a bunch, rentalguy1!

So, it seems not only do I need to file for my current back problems, but I also need to file for nerve damage in relation to the back problems, because unlike other conditions that are related and awarded as one condition, nerve damage resulting from back problems are awarded separate.

[SSGmajik]

Use this calculator.

http://www.hadit.com/vaclaimslibrary/compe...cpercentage.htm

SSGmajik