Dont Know What Else To Do

[ebony]

Hello all,

I sent in my claim a couple of weeks ago. They sent me some paper back saying that i can submit more evidence or go ahead with what i have now. the only evidence i have provided is a copy of my service medical record which details the numerous times i had been seen for back pain. I've been out for like 4 years now and my back still hurts but being a Marine, I've been just sucking it up, you know ice therapy and such. I Have not been seen by a private physician ever for this problem so like I said the SMR is the only evidence I have. Do you all think this will be sufficient?

[Chuck75]

Hello all,

I sent in my claim a couple of weeks ago. They sent me some paper back saying that i can submit more evidence or go ahead with what i have now. the only evidence i have provided is a copy of my service medical record which details the numerous times i had been seen for back pain. I've been out for like 4 years now and my back still hurts but being a Marine, I've been just sucking it up, you know ice therapy and such. I Have not been seen by a private physician ever for this problem so like I said the SMR is the only evidence I have. Do you all think this will be sufficient?

Part of the "proof" required is to show evidence of a "current" condition. The VA will likely require a C&P exam. These often result in a lower than warranted disability percentage, and if no evidence is presented to show continued problems, claim that the condition is not service related, even though there is evidence of the condition existing during service. I'm not saying that this is right, or the way the regs read, just that C&P examiners and rating officers tend to low ball, delay, or deny. I'd likely see a doctor (board certified specialist) and get the doctor to render an opinion that the back problems are a continuation of the in service problems. Who knows what an MRI or cat scan might show.

Back problems are common, and usually get worse over time. They may or may not be operable, and generally a back operation should be avoided until there is no other remedy.

[Pete53]

Welcome to Hadit.If you separated less than one year ago than you are ready to go.

[halos2]

They are going to wonder if your back injury you say occured in-service yet been out for 4 years and have not seen a dr or other medical professional during these 4 years what have you done for the pain? OTC meds like motrin, tylenol, back braces, supports, what other avenues of tx or relief have you used during these 4 years? Heating pads, chiropractor, pt ot? Massage therapy? BTW nice to have you here on hadit, and don't get discouraged or lose hope with a claim, the process could take up to years to get approval, but never give it. You will find helpful vets/family members of vets that will offer suggestions/assistance to help you along the way.

[retiredat44]

My VSO (Veteran's Service Officer) says to keep going for tests/treatment for all my conditions, including depression for my claim/appeal..

since I have to keep going anyways I don't find it any more work.. as I am in such bad shape that's the only way I can stay alive by always going for medical appointments and treatment..

a claim needs to show ongoing medical issues..

They are going to wonder if your back injury you say occured in-service yet been out for 4 years and have not seen a dr or other medical professional during these 4 years what have you done for the pain? OTC meds like motrin, tylenol, back braces, supports, what other avenues of tx or relief have you used during these 4 years? Heating pads, chiropractor, pt ot? Massage therapy? BTW nice to have you here on hadit, and don't get discouraged or lose hope with a claim, the process could take up to years to get approval, but never give it. You will find helpful vets/family members of vets that will offer suggestions/assistance to help you along the way.

[carlie]

ebony,

Welcome to Hadit.com

[john999]

Ebony

Have you gotten treatment for your back at the VA since discharge? I would sure start getting treatment at the VA if I have not gotten it yet. If you get a C&P exam they may just go with what is in your SMR's. That means old x-rays and old MRI's. You need current test results. These C&P exams can be very poor quality and result in drastic low ball ratings. Have you ever gotten an MRI?