VA service connected & now new condition

Question:

Hi Jim, thanks again for your work. Question, I am service connected 50% for both shoulders. I am and have been treated for Thromblastic Leaukemia , my V.A. Oncologist and Ortho. refuse to inject me with cortisone or perform any surgery that is invasive to my shoulders and regard my Shoulders as inoperable! Can I put in a claim for increase of rating because of this new found condition?   I am not a Vietnam Veteran but am thinking about extra scheduling rating due the above.  Any ideas, please! Thank you

Jim's Reply:

You're allowed to file for any condition that you believe is service connected. You'll have to prove your rationale and I'm not sure how you do that? I get that your docs don't want to expose you to any shoulder trauma because of cancer treatments but how does that make the shoulder condition worse? While it may seem apparent to you, you'll have to back it up with some science.