Should I Send This Document

[dittybopper]

Hello,

I have a appeal of my award on my knees currently they are rated at 10% each, However I have asked for a appeal as the condition of my knees took me out of work (I am a mailman). The question is I filed with OWCP for an aggrevation of existing condition. Well to make a long story short I was sent to a work capacity exam. The results of the test shows according to their tests I can walk for 1/2 hour a day. I use a walker, It also states that I can only work 4 hours a day but must work from a seated position the whole time and can only reach above my shouldders. Kneeling, bending, crawling, climbing stairs are all considered to be things I cannot perform. This work capacity study also states that I have reached maximum medical improvement and the restrictions he listed were permanet. It also states that a effort to cure my issue on my right knee failed (had a lateral release surgery). The question I am asking is should I send this document to the VA office as more proof that my knee condition has gotten alot worse and makes holding a full time job impossible. I appreciated any help you can be in advance as I am really stuck with what to do with this report. I know it is going to retire me out of the Post Office but would this document be seen as acceptable proof.

[cooter]

dittybopper

Just a little of info for when you apply for TDIU, which I'm sure you are! I also worked for the Feds ending up with a disibility retirement because of my knee's. I was on the old civil service retirement system not FERS. My job description was a HighLiner (high power voltage lineman), therefore couldn't climb anymore due to my SC knee. Now, other than the great advice you have already been given, one thing to keep in mind is don't be surprised if your C&P examiner states that you can still do

secetary work, sitting down. I say that because that's what they wrote on my exam therefore denying TDIU. During all the waiting I was thinking, ok, I lost my job of 31 years, young age of 54, rated 60% just on the knee (because of a botched total

knee replacement), don't have any other job qualifications, so, I THOUGHT there wasn't going to be much of a problem getting

approved. So I thought!

Which ever way you go as far as that letter, be prepared to get as much evidence from doctor's, PT specialist, Ortho's, Neuro's, family and friends statement's as you can on the fact that sitting to long hinders you to find and keep a job, etc, etc....

Plus are you on any pain meds or meds that make you feel like you can't concentrate or focas, or even drive. Anyway, good luck on your claim as I'm still waiting for the result on my reconsideration claim.