Increasing Benefits Award

Jim,

Thank you and your colleagues for what you do in support of all veterans.  I have been researching and your website is an awesome place for vet help.

I served 1978-1979, Armored Cavalry, Tanker, Germany (E-4); received a

2 year enlisted ROTC College Scholarship; graduated as a 0-1.

1981-1988 a Plt Ldr in a Heavy Truck Company and then S4 in that 28 Trans Battalion.  Then went to Ft Campbell, KY; 0-3, Co. Cdr 494th Tans Co. was discharged in May 1988 via MEB due to DJD bi-lateral ankles/feet.  During this time I had injuries to knee, ankles, elbow, positive TB (NonA/NonB), concussion from a parachute jump and noted on my exit physical low back pain (constant issue through my career).

They were all noted on the physical but no back x-rays were taken of my elbow or back and as I recall the exam at the time was fast.  Being an officer at Ft Campbell and going through an MEB it seems that I was expedited out.  I was a high performer and well decorated.  Loved it, but my injuries plagued me.

 

In 1989 was examined by the VA in Albany, NY and was screamed at (yes) by a Doctor that looked like he was in his 90's for not having my med records with me.  Unfortunately, I had placed too much faith in the VA system and he had to do this C&P exam "blind".  I think the records did not catch up from Kentucky to Northern NY.  I was so ticked about this that I did not pursue anything for maybe 10 years.  The C&P exam was contentious and he was contract doctor doing these.

 

Fast forward, I am 80% service connected after working hard to submit all types of paperwork over the years for my service connections.  I was recently denied for lateral epicondylitis (elbow) and (AS) ankylosing spondolytis and (RA) rheumatoid arthritis.  Even though AS/RA was not noted in my SMR, I believe they have been the cause of all my arthritic problems and chronic back issues since the late 1970's.  I went to the podiatrist at the VA about 2 years ago complaining of more ankle pain. The Doc ordered blood work.  Came back with a Rheumatoid factor of 320.  I then decided after seeing the VA rheumatologist (4 months to get an apt) that I should have a civilian doc take care of this issue.  The civilian doc then did blood and x-rays and ankylosing spondolytis (AS) was discovered.  I also have an infusion every 8 weeks to alter the progression of the AS that affects my spine and neck.

 

With lots of research in the VA system and on the internet, it shows that the AS and RA are active conditions.  It also states that these are typically manifested in the teens to around 35 years of age and often undetectable until a later date.   Those were basically the years I served. My question is, how does one appeal to substantiate that these active diseases have contributed to a variety of joint pain and suffering.  I feel that this issue is the primary problem causing all of the others that I experience today.  Trying to get help and someone to listen and guide me has been a challenge on these issues.

 

I also used the NY State Dept. of Vets Affairs and think that when I applied, he just was not fully aware of this condition or how to write this all up.  Any suggestions as to who you think is good here in northern NY is appreciated.

Sorry this was long, but wanted to elaborate on my career and issues serving in the US Army.

 

Reply:

 

I think that your best bet for increasing your benefits awards is to get a thorough independent medical opinion (IMO) from an expert physician. Such an opinion could sort all that out for you and define exactly what's up.

Click https://www.vawatchdog.org/imo-ime-medical-opinions-exams.html