The Veteran Benefits Administration Fiscal Year 2018-2019 report shows that there are certain health issues and problems which occur commonly in veterans. If you are wondering whether your condition is eligible for a claim or not, take a look at the following top VA disability claims:
1. Tinnitus
While most people would combine tinnitus with hearing loss, this is not the case. Tinnitus is usually considered as a secondary disability. It also gets a rating of only 10%. That’s why it is usually classified as a low-value claim. If Tinnitus is an underlying condition of some other issue, testing will be required to determine the cause.
2. Hearing Loss
This ranks among the top VA disability claims because hearing loss can happen easily with service duty. In order to file for this claim, you might be required to take an audiogram and speech test. Treatment of hearing loss is necessary because it has been linked to lowering the quality of life of senior citizens and incurring higher medical expenses.
3. PTSD – Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
PTSD is among the top VA disability claims. Around 90.7% of all veterans were given a rating of 30% or more for their mental health whereas 41.1% of all veterans had a rating of 70% and more for mental health.
High ratings are given for high-value claims and PTSD is included in this mix. Additionally, PTSD always has a strong correlation to service—especially field duty.
4. General Scars and Skin Conditions
General scars and skin conditions are low-value claims but they’re among the top VA disability claims as well. Establishing a claim for skin conditions can be difficult especially if someone has a pre-existing skin condition. Proper documentation via photographs is needed for this area. Even scars need proper visual documentation. Color photos work best to show the extent of skin condition or scarring.
5. Limitation of Movement – Knee Problems
Musculoskeletal injuries can drastically limit movement for people. Pain in the joints—especially knee joints—can occur because of arthritis, weakness, or due to a duty injury. Musculoskeletal injuries can also decrease the health and quality of life of a person. These can also be considered to be secondary conditions that are linked with other conditions such as PTSD, Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD), neck and spinal injuries, and more.
6. Limitation of Movement – Ankle Problems
Ankle problems also qualify as musculoskeletal injuries but they are low-value claims. Much like with knee problems, ankle issues are secondary conditions that are often linked with more severe conditions. Establishing the link between the injuries with service duty is necessary for this claim.
7. Cervical or Lumbosacral Strain
This condition happens because of a torn tendon, cervical strain, or even because of trauma caused by an injury. While it is usually treated using only over-the-counter medication, cervical or lumbosacral strains can be painful and can limit one’s range of motion until it is treated.
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