@@bitkrusher5948 are you filing your own claim? If you're not fling your own claim, if you are having a VSO do it, then the short answer is that you don't have to worry about "how." They will explain everything that you need to do. They take care of most of your administrative stuff for you, typically. You just need to make sure that you have all of your medical records accessible. Do you have a copy of all of that stuff? If you ARE filing your own caim, then you just need to put together all relevant medical documentation that is in your medical file, and accompany it with a NEXUS letter. What I did was wrote a NEXUS letter. In 2023 I actually had a back injury. When I went to the hospital, they x-rayed my back and said, "You have arthritis in your lumbar." THAT explained the years of pain!! Backing up my timeline, I remember hurting my back in 2011. So I got a copy of the X-ray and medical summary that said, "...arthritis in lumbar." I then wrote a Nexus letter, a "story" that explained the develpment of my issue. "Once upon a time... in 2011 I hurt my back. I was in Survival School, playing patty cake with the enemy. I strained my back. I told the medic. I was given medication for my back. In 2023 I felt extreme pain in my back. I went to the hospital. I was x-rayed, and told that I have arthritis in my lumbar." I kept a copy of the prescription, believe it or not. So I logged into the VA website. I started my own claim. I attached a photo copy of my original prescription from 2011, the x-rays from the hospital, the medical notes from the hospital and my Nexus Letter, telling the whole story of how the original injury and the current condition of my back are related. MOST people use a VSO. I figured I would try it myself. It got me a 40% rating for back, so my VA rating is higher now. I hope that helps.
@@cdperry65 oh ok I got medboarded for my back . My doctor diagnosed me with lumbar spondylosis and degenerative disc disease and lumbar ridiculopthy in both legs
I went to a C&P exam recently for my lower back and I had a current diagnosis from my personal doctor, MRI and medications. I was injured during airborne school. The examiner said she couldn’t connect me because I wasn’t treated in service. I explained that most soldiers don’t go to the doctor unless something is broken or you’re bleeding profusely. She still said that she couldn’t connect me. I was denied. I filed for a HLR. I also got my personal doctor to write me a nexus statement in case this HLR doesn’t go my way. Crazy thing is everything I’m rated for, I never sought treatment for any of it while I was in service.
Leah completed a Nexus Letter for me connecting my service connected injuries Ankles and Knee to multiple back issues that I am currently suffering from. I completed my C&P exam thru the Hampton VA hospital. The Nexus Letter was so thorough that when I viewed the Note of my C&P eval, via thr blue button report, it appears that the VA C&P examiner was in agreement and used Leah's evidence (Research & Medical Articles) to agree that my back issues are "at least likely than not" secondary conditions and supported my claim. Great job Leah. I definitely am very pleased using your services.
I was told to look online to get ready for my C&P, and this is the 1st lower back video. Very informative. Having never really dealt with VA stuff before, this definitely helps get me ready. Thank you very much.
This was a great video and very explanatory and you were spot on in explaining the form as my C&P exam went exactly all the way to the end…Thank You!!!!
Do you have a separate rating for this degenerative disease and degenerative arthritis? I ask because I have a diagnosis and service connection for both. I just wondered if I would get two separate ratings or if they say that’s pyramiding and give me only one rating
I just had a C & P exam and the examiner used no tools, did no range of motion, nothing. Just put a hand over my toes and bent my toes. I know i will have to appeal. She only touched my lower back, which was extremely painful & i told her it feels like a constant smoldering fire with pain down the back of my leg.
@lookoutnow4996 I had my lower back/nerve pain C&P exam last week 3/8/24. It was done along with bilateral knee pain/Foot pain, and elbow pain. Overall it went good. The exam took 2 hrs or so. They did the range of motion exams. then asked the questions about what created the issue, how does it affect you, how often do you get flare ups, medications and treatments etc etc. I have 2 herniated disks L5 and L4 so I was also diagnosed with Radiculaphy both legs. They didn't do an exam for that, I just told them I have tingling and burning sensation all the way down to my feet. Hope this helps
I recently filed for bilateral knee condition and lower back pain secondary.. after my C&P exam, I finally got my decision letter. The denied the bilateral knee strains, but I did get the secondary lumbarsacral strain at 10% and sciatic left and right lower extremities at 10% each.. so 30% total rating.. I am happy..
Hello Ms. Leah B. I have a few questions regarding my service in the PG. Around Dec 1990 or Jan 1991 I woke up in a field hospital. I do not remember what happend or why i ended up in that hospital. After all my c&p exams no has brought it up to me. I looked over my va med records and dont see anything related to that incident. Last year Nov 2022 i went to a c&p exam regarding my back ddd, shoulder injury which was bumped to 90. I also had an exam for bilateral nerve damage, i had told my va Dr that my hands were getting swollen and had trigger on the out digits. Had surgery on the right hand, swelling and trigger finger went away but the pain is still there. I file a claim, va said that was not service connected, sleep anea not service connected, migraines not service connected... 10:13
I am sorry to hear this sir. Have you spoken with a legal professional about this? If you are interested in having us look at this for a possible nexus letter please contact us at info@prestigeveteranmctx.com
You can ask your treating doctor. My company also provides these types of services and if you are interested in more info please email us at info@prestigeveteranmctx.com
injured my knees in the military 1988 and 1992.. have back issues for years since.. lower back right at the belt line area.. hard to bend over or turn or twist very far. getting in and out of a chair or bed.. is a task.. some days.. a fight.
Can I file lower back secondary to a SC broken metatarsal? I had a MRI and my L3,L4,L5 are bulging. I was also going to also file my hip as well secondary to the foot.
That is a great question. Many veterans have service connections for orthopedic issues related to other orthopedic issues. Of course every case is different.
I have a c&p exam for both knees both shoulders and all 3 regions of my spine everything is already service connected and due to combat as far as my spine goes i already have degenerative disc disease in several disc on record and everything else is well documented its been over 10 years since i got out and its all really adding up i ended up stuck in bed with my head stuck to the right for days and my head was stuck for about 2 weeks i just hope the exam goes well
Got sent to a C & P Exam to some small doctor’s office in the hilly suburb of Hoover, Alabama outside of Birmingham, AL. After a quick x-ray I saw a female doctor who in 15 minutes was done with me. She did a flexion test on my back and feet (of course I told I was hurting and my flexibility flexion was none)! Welp that most likely got me that 100%. She did not ask for my DBQ’s because it was on her computer. 👈🏿😲
Had exam in Feb 2024. C&P couldn't access my file online. Got CFile after 6 months. In my file VBA wrote back to C&P and said you missed STR with complaint/ service connection. Couldn't believe VBA stuck up for me. C&P wrote back, I can't read the document- NO SERVICE CONNECTION. With this error I'm sure to win 20% in HLR. Lesson here is print and show your file during the C&P.
Do you have to use their Doctors for the exam? I ask because, I put in for a hearing loss disability claim. The Doctor at my VA determined that I did have hearing loss and got me hearing aids. Prior to this, the VA had let me fall between the cracks and not done a hearing test on me for 10yrs. They sent me to their tester who is employed by the VA and gets paid by the VA I see this as a huge conflict of interest… Of course they denied my claim based on what this Doctor told them… Now I’m fighting it.
I filed my claim and waiting ✋️ on my results. Hopefully a good rating. I'm already service connected when I filed my claim back in 1998 a few months before my ETS date 12-15-98 I did do a C&P exam on 08-03-23 I have my diagnosis DBQ'S / STR's My caim is being looked at by the adjudicator then needs to be signed off and going into the preparation of notification phase. I will definitely keep you posted.
This form is supposed to be filled out by the examining physician. It appears, by the detail of this questionnaire, an examination would take at least 1-1/2 hours. If the examiner is asking questions but not writing anything down shouldn’t this be a red flag? Shouldn’t this record be part of the Veteran’s medical files and posted to the Intake Center? The Veteran should have assurance the examination was conducted and reported properly. What recourse does a Veteran have if the Veteran Evaluation Services ( VES) doesn’t conduct the C&P exam in accordance with the checklist?
Hi sir you can always seek assistance from a legal professional. Also the Whitehouse has a hotline for these types of matters. You may want to check out this link: news.va.gov/43444/white-house-va-hotline-now-fully-staffed-operational-around-clock-serve-nations-veterans/
I filed for back pain right when i got back from Iraq (along with other stuff) and it was denied. I had not service med records as being in the infantry, going to sick call was not what we did. Well all these years later and I now have medical records from the civilian side and MRI showing bulging discs. I was airborne in the 82nd and I got a CIB later with another unit. Do I file a new claim and focus on my airborne service? Do I submitt all my civilan documentation and then go to the C&P exam as well?
I am sorry to hear this sir. There are very specific instructions for refiling this type of case. Have you followed up with a legal professional for advice on this?
Rated 20% (will be 20 years this Jun 2024, permanent) lower lumbar, from active duty injury. Contemplating increase, documented VA care, meds, etc. Also have documented depression, recently prescribed Escitalopram Oxalate for "mood", by VA doctor. Worth perusing increase? also have SA, but was denied 2015, because no SC in VA eyes. Help!!!!!!!!!!!!! Love your videos by the way, and very informative!!
Doc, how can I tie my service connection lumbar pain to my knees? Where i have nerve pain on both legs to my toes and now both knees i have torn meniscus, torn acl on my left. I submitted it for disabilities but they sent me to an NP that does not give any veteran a chance to a good c&p..
Hey Leah, thanks for putting out all of your videos. When you were a C&P examiner, did you ever write a positive nexus for lower back pain secondary to a severe service-connected pes planus condition that caused an abnormal gait? The VA does service-connect for it if you have bad pronation, limited range of motion in the ankles, etc. I was curious if you ever examined anyone for that and what your best advice is to get rated for it? Thanks!
Hey sir thank you for watching! I have seen that type of case in the past. Check out this article: Low back pain and its relation to the hip and foot, published in The Journal of Orthopaedic and Physical Therapy
Great video…. I have had back pain for years from when I was an F-18 mechanic on the flightdeck…I have gone to medical for back pain in the past. I had an MRI and no spinal damage. But every so often I tweak my back doing barely anything and the pain is back for a week or two…..does there need to be disk damage or is the pain and limited range of motion enough that I should put in a claim.
I think I’m doing good in my C& P but my back pain claims get denied even it is on my military medical records maybe I need nexus letter to connect my condition to my service. Cause when I get out the military I don’t claim my back pain cause I heard is not worthy is just 5 to 10 percent but my bsck been bothering me even I’m out the service Im just taking pain reliever and some heating pads but I decided to see a civilian orthopedic on 2020 get X-ray and mri and then sent me to physical therapy and get injections but it doesn’t get better and radiant to my hips.
What are the diagnosis from your orthopedic doctor? Find out and file secondary. If your Ortho doctor can write nexus letter, that would be great. If not, Prestige can write you one. Basically, you need an inservice injury, then a current diagnosis, then a nexus letter stating that your current condition is related to that inservice injury. Goodluck!
@@prestigeveteranmedical seems fishy to me i called of course they don’t know what the labs are for. Called the VA they don’t know either. I’m guessing they re opened another claim from that pact act review i did a month ago.
Leah I was wondering what your opinion is if the VA skipped my C&P exam and went straight to DBQ. Is what they are doing in my best interest. Thank you for your time.
I am not sure how they would do a DBQ for back pain without having you be there in person because the DBQ for back pain requires a physical examination
@@robertdesautels8715You should have had a C&P exam because an examiner needs to physically use a goniometer to measure in degrees Range of motion in any part of your body that you filed for to help with medical diagnosis, medical records and last but not least rating
I have a quick question. I've already got a 40% rating for my lower back injury, 20% left radiculopathy, & 20% right radiculopathy. The VA Doctors want me to try a steriod epidural to see if it helps with pain. I'm just wondering if I try this, and it helps, can the VA come back and reduce my benefit percentages, claiming it's better now? Is this a possibility or not because its really just masking pain not really fixing the problems (degenerative disk disease, spinal stenosis, and lumbar spine disc bulges.
I would definitely recommend that you ask this question to an attorney. I do support 100% doing anything you/your doctors believe will help you however. Best of luck!
Leah, I recently requested an increase for my neck and my left ankle. I was at 10% for both. It has been 18 years since I got out and 17 since I did my original claims. I also requested a new service connection for sinusitis. There were other requests for increase and other new claims, but these three in particular were folded into one exam. My exam (July 2) was with a nurse practitioner at VES. In the examination she mentioned that we would be doing a ROM test on my neck and my ankle, and the then proceeded to go into detail on the difference between rhinitis and sinusitis. She went through my records while I was sitting there and said she felt that my conditions were more rhinitis vs the sinusitis that I had claimed. Then she looked at her watch and realized we were out of time and said thanks, I will look at your records and you'll hear something from VA in about 30 days. The abruptness kind of caught me off guard, and I left. When I got back to work I realized that there was no real exam/evaluation done. I emailed my VSO and documented my concerns. Then I got the survey email from VES and documented them there as well. I got a decision letter at the end of July giving me a new 10% service connection for rhinitis. I also got an increase from 10% to 20% for my neck. But I got declined an increase for my ankle. So a medical opinion was formed without doing any kind of evaluation. My question is, how should I appeal this. Supplemental claim? Higher level review? My VSO is extremely slow to answer anything and never answers his phone. Im just trying to figure out what is the best route given that I do not have any real "new" evidence but I am disputing the medical examination. Thoughts?
I am sorry to hear this sir. It sounds like you may benefit from an accredited legal professional that is attentive and responsive. Have you considered finding a different legal professional?
I just had my second spine suregery, fusion this time. First surgery results: My lower extremeties ie left leg, has numbness that runs to outside part of my foot and spreads as I am more active, i have dropfoot. My right knee patella tore(not ruptured) from imbalance and use. Was told I would eventually need a knee replacement. My calves have atrophied as well. My 2nd surgery which I was referred to a Neurosurgeon by the VA, because I was bone on bone and needed fusion. I am currently at 70%, and I am being reviewed because my problems have worsened. I was told I may need to find a different career. Because police work is not ideal for my future. All this and i have a feeling I wont get 100%, yet I see friends with far less, rated higher or 100....I dont get it.
I had a back injury that I’m still being affected by today. However when I requested my medical records my injury was not there but someone else’s. What do I do in this case?
they didnt do any of this in my last C&P exam.. the doc barley did anything or asked anything. the only thing they did was try to get me to bend, in which i coulnt whithout being in pain. he had a measurement tool, but after that he just quit
Hi I have a question so I did a C and p exam for my back. The provider doing the exam requested an x ray then the results from the x ray showed scoliosis and curvature. I was denied the claim for back pain. Is there a way I can request another c and p exam or is there anything else I can do?
Would you say it's an inadequate c&p exam if they only take forward flexion of the back, but not the rest of all the ranges such as left/right lateral rotations?
Great video..I really appreciate you going through the DBQ. If you have not yet done, can you do the same for cervical? I will look for your video on Radiculopathy which I was just diagnosed having in additon to Promiant Facet Disease. Thank you
Looking for understanding. What is low back pain rating vs an actual physical injury rating of the back such as degenerative disc disease, bilateral neuropathy, stress fractures of the spine etc? SC low back pain since 2005, but have since had actual diagnosis. Are these “secondary” claims? Thank you for any assistance.
I have lower pain back and getting shots for almost 10 yrs now and legs, foot having issue as well start feeling numbness and tingling and everyone and then my hips and hurt to can’t event bent and reach down. Is getting surgery will hurt me filing a claims I am retiring in 15 months
I recently had my c&p exam for multitude claims, but they didnt do a c&p for my back, knees, neck. I have an MRI documented by VA that shows DDD, multiple herniated discs and lunber nerve damage. I called the va and they told me they have what they need for the dbq and didnt need to do a c&p.. Is this a good sign or no?
I did a C&P exam for both feet Doc told me at the exam I got Planters Fasciitis but I was denied do to filing presumptive because they still let me into service. I went down to the Podiatrist’s at the VA and they did X-rays gave me insoles and special boots to wear. Should I file a supplemental claim now that I have been written an outstanding letter by my Podiatrist?
Hi. I have an exam soon for my back. I get confused when doing my ROM. I’ve had scoliosis prior to entering and it’s gotten worse after getting out. For them to see how bad my spine is, should I completely move forward until it hurts? Or keep going even when I’m in pain so they can see how bad it really is?
I just checked on my supplemental claim for my cervical back. They told me it was assigned to a ratings specialist. Does that mean its likely approved?
@@joeb.8625 They are clearly listed on multiple pages of our website. If you would like more information you can also contact us at info@prestigeveteranmctx.com
I recently fell in my back yard. Due to losing my balance because of my service connected condition (Peripheral Neuropathy). Causing what my VA Doctor says is an Extreme, Chronic Herniated Disk in my lower back.
The same DBQ is used for increases. If you are specifically asking about which form is used to file for an increase you would want to check with a legal professional on that
Had to do a HLR. I got denied because although the examiner said I did have in service events, recent treatments and current diagnosis. I did not have any treatments right after the events. I submitted buddy statements, and a nexus from my current physician and physical therapist. I’m hoping with just these nexus’s and buddy statements that HLR judge will award my claim.
Wtf... C&P examiner was shit. Came in for 5 minutes. Didn't do nothing ask nothing. I recorded it. Got my claim denied because he said the only time I complained about any back issues was when I was pregnant. And since he doesn't think pregnancy back pain leads to degenerative disc syndrome it's denied. Wtf I didn't even say it did. I said it from my mos job duties. And submitted articles from army and VA stating that my mos has lower back issues. Along with my current diagnosis. Mind you I was already denied only because I didn't have a current diagnosis. I had only had back pain with letter from doctors
I have ? To ask, on this symptoms Degenerative Arthritis of the Lumbosacral and Thoracic with Intervertebral Disk Syndrome is this in one VA rating or 3 different VA rating just wanted to have better clarification. I’m a bit confused
I did just that. I can barely bend and I start to feel pain. That’s what I did in my C&P exam with without a doubt I was much less than 30° but I just got a copy of my exam today and the examiner said I bent 60° For active and passive 40° for the repetitive motion one and estimated at flareups it would be 20°. She is definitely wrong on the 60° flexion overall, she did an excellent job on my exam. She basically wrote down everything. I said she added a diagnosis for IVDS which won’t mean anything because I didn’t have bedrest. I’m just a little frustrated about the 60° thing because there is no way I bent past 30° because I would be in a lot of pain. Anywhere on that long DBQ form she could write I had pain and couldn’t bend forward. She didn’t hesitate to make a note of it. I will just have to wait now and see how I’m rated some of the lawyer websites. I look at claim, you should be rated at the flareup degree, I hope I’m reading that correctly and that is the case.
You better have medical records with an MRI because they're gonna send you to their doc who gives you an X-Ray and tells them everything is fine. When they are fully aware how much is missed with a simple X-ray
I just got mine and they did a pre phone call to go over it than when I got to actual appointment the so called doctor minimize my scars and lower back pain
Outstanding information, I have a pending claim for lumber spine. Thank you for your services.
Good luck! I am glad you enjoyed the content and thank you for watching!
Damn that's what I have backs screwed discharched for knees after infantry with Pr77radio! How do you prove it?
I am so sorry to hear this sir. Have you discussed this with a legal professional? @@bitkrusher5948
@@bitkrusher5948 are you filing your own claim? If you're not fling your own claim, if you are having a VSO do it, then the short answer is that you don't have to worry about "how." They will explain everything that you need to do. They take care of most of your administrative stuff for you, typically. You just need to make sure that you have all of your medical records accessible. Do you have a copy of all of that stuff?
If you ARE filing your own caim, then you just need to put together all relevant medical documentation that is in your medical file, and accompany it with a NEXUS letter. What I did was wrote a NEXUS letter.
In 2023 I actually had a back injury. When I went to the hospital, they x-rayed my back and said, "You have arthritis in your lumbar." THAT explained the years of pain!! Backing up my timeline, I remember hurting my back in 2011. So I got a copy of the X-ray and medical summary that said, "...arthritis in lumbar." I then wrote a Nexus letter, a "story" that explained the develpment of my issue. "Once upon a time... in 2011 I hurt my back. I was in Survival School, playing patty cake with the enemy. I strained my back. I told the medic. I was given medication for my back. In 2023 I felt extreme pain in my back. I went to the hospital. I was x-rayed, and told that I have arthritis in my lumbar."
I kept a copy of the prescription, believe it or not. So I logged into the VA website. I started my own claim. I attached a photo copy of my original prescription from 2011, the x-rays from the hospital, the medical notes from the hospital and my Nexus Letter, telling the whole story of how the original injury and the current condition of my back are related.
MOST people use a VSO. I figured I would try it myself. It got me a 40% rating for back, so my VA rating is higher now.
I hope that helps.
what was the outcome?
Your videos are awesome. I just had a C&P exam in September. Favorable lumbar strain from bilateral knee service connected. Finally got 100%!!!
So you connected your lumbar strain secondary to your bilateral knee condition?
@@rodrezcarson yes my lumbar strain is secondary to service connected bilateral knee issues.
I am so glad you are enjoying the content and thank you for watching!!!
@@cdperry65 oh ok I got medboarded for my back . My doctor diagnosed me with lumbar spondylosis and degenerative disc disease and lumbar ridiculopthy in both legs
Congratulations! I just claimed low back secondary to my bilateral knee (one total replacement), hips and pelvis.
I went to a C&P exam recently for my lower back and I had a current diagnosis from my personal doctor, MRI and medications. I was injured during airborne school. The examiner said she couldn’t connect me because I wasn’t treated in service. I explained that most soldiers don’t go to the doctor unless something is broken or you’re bleeding profusely. She still said that she couldn’t connect me. I was denied. I filed for a HLR. I also got my personal doctor to write me a nexus statement in case this HLR doesn’t go my way. Crazy thing is everything I’m rated for, I never sought treatment for any of it while I was in service.
So I have all these favorable finding for my diagnosed conditions but no service connection. smh
I am so sorry to hear this sir. I am going to do a video regarding paratroopers very soon. Probably in the next month or so. Best of luck to you
“Injured during airborne school” is this in your medical records? No sick call for the injury?
That may be helpful!@@cdperry65
This is the exact scenario I am getting ready to face. Going to sick call as an 11B was very frowned upon, so never went and sucked it up.
Wow nice to see a channel actually respond to its viewers, I’m actually very impressed how much you respond to everyone.
Thank you for the kind feedback sir and thank you for watching 💕
Leah completed a Nexus Letter for me connecting my service connected injuries Ankles and Knee to multiple back issues that I am currently suffering from. I completed my C&P exam thru the Hampton VA hospital. The Nexus Letter was so thorough that when I viewed the Note of my C&P eval, via thr blue button report, it appears that the VA C&P examiner was in agreement and used Leah's evidence (Research & Medical Articles) to agree that my back issues are "at least likely than not" secondary conditions and supported my claim.
Great job Leah. I definitely am very pleased using your services.
Thank you so much for the opportunity and the awesome feedback sir!!
1. Understand your symptoms
2. Voice when you feel tension/pain.
3. Be respectful...you get more flies with honey 😊
I agree 100% Now we need you to get that VA accredited agent application status going!
@@prestigeveteranmedical You tell it like it is... I don't mind following your lead.👍🏽✌🏾
I was told to look online to get ready for my C&P, and this is the 1st lower back video. Very informative.
Having never really dealt with VA stuff before, this definitely helps get me ready. Thank you very much.
I am so glad you found it helpful! Thank you for watching and best of luck to you
This was a great video and very explanatory and you were spot on in explaining the form as my C&P exam went exactly all the way to the end…Thank You!!!!
Glad it was helpful! Thank you for watching!
I just had a C&P by an out sourced examiner. I waited longer in the waiting than the exam lasted. Exam was all of 10 minutes
Sorry to hear this sir. Best of luck on this and thank you for watching
How did it go?
Thank you. The DBQ helps to know the test questions ahead of time.
Glad you found it helpful!!
I just got 20% for both legs for radiculopathy secondary to degenerative disc disease and degenerative arthritis.
That is great news glad to hear you are getting your disabilities connected
Do you have a separate rating for this degenerative disease and degenerative arthritis? I ask because I have a diagnosis and service connection for both. I just wondered if I would get two separate ratings or if they say that’s pyramiding and give me only one rating
You would want to follow up with a legal professional on that sir @@Kenbot2
@Kenbot2 I got 40% for DDS with degenerative arthritis.
How long after your C&P exam did you get the news?
Have my exam for increase in November. Thank you for your service and for the information!
You bet sir thank you for your service and for watching. Best of luck and keep us posted!
Thanks!
Thank you!!
Outstanding information. I have my C&P exam upcoming and this video is helpful. Thank you
I am glad you found it helpful! Thank you for watching
definitely a help. applying for an increase so lets see
Best of luck to you!!
I just had a C & P exam and the examiner used no tools, did no range of motion, nothing. Just put a hand over my toes and bent my toes. I know i will have to appeal. She only touched my lower back, which was extremely painful & i told her it feels like a constant smoldering fire with pain down the back of my leg.
I am very sorry to hear this!
So what happened?
Great information...I just went through one of these and I can tell you they did maybe 10% of this
I’m sorry to hear that sir. I hope it turns out ok. Thank you for watching
thanks for posting this information. I have a C&P tomorrow and I am really nervous and don't know what to expect.
Best of luck to you and thank you for watching
Can you share your experience briefly and about how long it took, I'm currently waiting on my C&P. THANKS
How did it go?
@lookoutnow4996 I had my lower back/nerve pain C&P exam last week 3/8/24. It was done along with bilateral knee pain/Foot pain, and elbow pain. Overall it went good. The exam took 2 hrs or so. They did the range of motion exams. then asked the questions about what created the issue, how does it affect you, how often do you get flare ups, medications and treatments etc etc. I have 2 herniated disks L5 and L4 so I was also diagnosed with Radiculaphy both legs. They didn't do an exam for that, I just told them I have tingling and burning sensation all the way down to my feet. Hope this helps
Well keep us posted! Hopefully you will hear something positive soon @@carloscamacho8729
I recently filed for bilateral knee condition and lower back pain secondary.. after my C&P exam, I finally got my decision letter. The denied the bilateral knee strains, but I did get the secondary lumbarsacral strain at 10% and sciatic left and right lower extremities at 10% each.. so 30% total rating.. I am happy..
Happy to hear about the back issue. Thank you for watching!
Great information, I am getting close to my back C&P exam so all this information is great.
Best of luck to you and thank you for watching!
Any update?
@lookoutnow4996 I ended up getting 30% for my back. 10% for my disc's and 10% for each leg Radiculopathy. I got rated 2 months ago for my back.
What was the outcome?
Beautiful!! you always have helpful information. my notebook is getting is getting full of your notes.
Thank you and I am so glad you are enjoying the content!!
Hello Ms. Leah B.
I have a few questions regarding my service in the PG. Around Dec 1990 or Jan 1991 I woke up in a field hospital. I do not remember what happend or why i ended up in that hospital. After all my c&p exams no has brought it up to me. I looked over my va med records and dont see anything related to that incident.
Last year Nov 2022 i went to a c&p exam regarding my back ddd, shoulder injury which was bumped to 90. I also had an exam for bilateral nerve damage, i had told my va Dr that my hands were getting swollen and had trigger on the out digits. Had surgery on the right hand, swelling and trigger finger went away but the pain is still there. I file a claim, va said that was not service connected, sleep anea not service connected, migraines not service connected... 10:13
I am sorry to hear this sir. Have you spoken with a legal professional about this? If you are interested in having us look at this for a possible nexus letter please contact us at info@prestigeveteranmctx.com
Thanks for sharing. I'm curious how I can find a doctor to write a nexus letter for a back injury connecting it as a secondary to a previous injury?
You can ask your treating doctor. My company also provides these types of services and if you are interested in more info please email us at info@prestigeveteranmctx.com
injured my knees in the military 1988 and 1992.. have back issues for years since.. lower back right at the belt line area.. hard to bend over or turn or twist very far. getting in and out of a chair or bed.. is a task.. some days.. a fight.
I am sorry to hear this sir. Hang in there and thank you for watching.
Can I file lower back secondary to a SC broken metatarsal? I had a MRI and my L3,L4,L5 are bulging. I was also going to also file my hip as well secondary to the foot.
That is a great question. Many veterans have service connections for orthopedic issues related to other orthopedic issues. Of course every case is different.
I have a c&p exam for both knees both shoulders and all 3 regions of my spine everything is already service connected and due to combat as far as my spine goes i already have degenerative disc disease in several disc on record and everything else is well documented its been over 10 years since i got out and its all really adding up i ended up stuck in bed with my head stuck to the right for days and my head was stuck for about 2 weeks i just hope the exam goes well
I am so sorry to hear this sir. Best of luck and thank you for watching
Got sent to a C & P Exam to some small doctor’s office in the hilly suburb of Hoover, Alabama outside of Birmingham, AL. After a quick x-ray I saw a female doctor who in 15 minutes was done with me. She did a flexion test on my back and feet (of course I told I was hurting and my flexibility flexion was none)! Welp that most likely got me that 100%. She did not ask for my DBQ’s because it was on her computer. 👈🏿😲
glad to hear you had a positive experience. Thank you for watching
@@prestigeveteranmedical hey what I am hoping is that my C&P was favorable that I get that 20% times be at a 100%!
Best of luck and keep us posted!@@MARLONdaman
@@prestigeveteranmedical ok
Well I am still trying to understand the VA RATING SYSTEM. It is still a crazy computational process.🤔🤷🏾♂️
Had exam in Feb 2024. C&P couldn't access my file online. Got CFile after 6 months. In my file VBA wrote back to C&P and said you missed STR with complaint/ service connection. Couldn't believe VBA stuck up for me. C&P wrote back, I can't read the document- NO SERVICE CONNECTION. With this error I'm sure to win 20% in HLR. Lesson here is print and show your file during the C&P.
That is crazy. Thank you for sharing and keep us posted
Do you have to use their Doctors for the exam?
I ask because, I put in for a hearing loss disability claim.
The Doctor at my VA determined that I did have hearing loss
and got me hearing aids.
Prior to this, the VA had let me fall between the cracks and not
done a hearing test on me for 10yrs.
They sent me to their tester who is employed by the VA and gets
paid by the VA I see this as a huge conflict of interest…
Of course they denied my claim based on what this Doctor told them…
Now I’m fighting it.
I am sorry to hear this sir. You may want to follow up with a legal professional who can give you some additional insight
I filed my claim and waiting ✋️ on my results. Hopefully a good rating. I'm already service connected when I filed my claim back in 1998 a few months before my ETS date 12-15-98 I did do a C&P exam on 08-03-23 I have my diagnosis DBQ'S / STR's My caim is being looked at by the adjudicator then needs to be signed off and going into the preparation of notification phase. I will definitely keep you posted.
Best of luck to you!
@@prestigeveteranmedical thank you very much 💯
This form is supposed to be filled out by the examining physician. It appears, by the detail of this questionnaire, an examination would take at least 1-1/2 hours. If the examiner is asking questions but not writing anything down shouldn’t this be a red flag? Shouldn’t this record be part of the Veteran’s medical files and posted to the Intake Center? The Veteran should have assurance the examination was conducted and reported properly. What recourse does a Veteran have if the Veteran Evaluation Services ( VES) doesn’t conduct the C&P exam in accordance with the checklist?
Hi sir you can always seek assistance from a legal professional. Also the Whitehouse has a hotline for these types of matters. You may want to check out this link: news.va.gov/43444/white-house-va-hotline-now-fully-staffed-operational-around-clock-serve-nations-veterans/
I filed for back pain right when i got back from Iraq (along with other stuff) and it was denied. I had not service med records as being in the infantry, going to sick call was not what we did. Well all these years later and I now have medical records from the civilian side and MRI showing bulging discs. I was airborne in the 82nd and I got a CIB later with another unit. Do I file a new claim and focus on my airborne service? Do I submitt all my civilan documentation and then go to the C&P exam as well?
I am sorry to hear this sir. There are very specific instructions for refiling this type of case. Have you followed up with a legal professional for advice on this?
Call Berry Law, you can't go wrong
Rated 20% (will be 20 years this Jun 2024, permanent) lower lumbar, from active duty injury. Contemplating increase, documented VA care, meds, etc. Also have documented depression, recently prescribed Escitalopram Oxalate for "mood", by VA doctor. Worth perusing increase? also have SA, but was denied 2015, because no SC in VA eyes. Help!!!!!!!!!!!!! Love your videos by the way, and very informative!!
Thank you for the feedback and thank you for watching. These are all tough questions and I will get a good attorney on to answer a bunch of them soon!
Doc, how can I tie my service connection lumbar pain to my knees? Where i have nerve pain on both legs to my toes and now both knees i have torn meniscus, torn acl on my left. I submitted it for disabilities but they sent me to an NP that does not give any veteran a chance to a good c&p..
I am sorry to hear this sir. If you want more info on our nexus letters you can contact us at info@prestigeveteranmctx.com.
Waiting for my MSC to call me for
MEB due to DDD so I appreciate you making this video . Semi hit me , 18 month dnif and EMGs show radiculopathy
I am so sorry to hear this. Best of luck to you and thank you for watching
@@prestigeveteranmedical thank you and keep up the great content
Will do! @@S1KChocolate
Hey Leah, thanks for putting out all of your videos. When you were a C&P examiner, did you ever write a positive nexus for lower back pain secondary to a severe service-connected pes planus condition that caused an abnormal gait? The VA does service-connect for it if you have bad pronation, limited range of motion in the ankles, etc. I was curious if you ever examined anyone for that and what your best advice is to get rated for it? Thanks!
Hey sir thank you for watching! I have seen that type of case in the past. Check out this article: Low back pain and its relation to the hip and foot, published in The Journal of Orthopaedic and Physical Therapy
Can you do a video on Ankylosing Spondilitis? And 13B as well.
Hey there I will add this to the list! Thank you for watching!
@@prestigeveteranmedicalThank you. I am looking forward to this topic as well.👌
Great video…. I have had back pain for years from when I was an F-18 mechanic on the flightdeck…I have gone to medical for back pain in the past. I had an MRI and no spinal damage. But every so often I tweak my back doing barely anything and the pain is back for a week or two…..does there need to be disk damage or is the pain and limited range of motion enough that I should put in a claim.
I am sorry to hear about your back condition. I am glad you enjoyed the video and thank you for watching. Best of luck to you
I think I’m doing good in my C& P but my back pain claims get denied even it is on my military medical records maybe I need nexus letter to connect my condition to my service. Cause when I get out the military I don’t claim my back pain cause I heard is not worthy is just 5 to 10 percent but my bsck been bothering me even I’m out the service Im just taking pain reliever and some heating pads but I decided to see a civilian orthopedic on 2020 get X-ray and mri and then sent me to physical therapy and get injections but it doesn’t get better and radiant to my hips.
I am sorry to hear this sir. Thank you for watching
What are the diagnosis from your orthopedic doctor? Find out and file secondary. If your Ortho doctor can write nexus letter, that would be great. If not, Prestige can write you one. Basically, you need an inservice injury, then a current diagnosis, then a nexus letter stating that your current condition is related to that inservice injury. Goodluck!
i put in a claim for lower back pain. And i just got a letter from VES saying i need to come in for lab work is this normal?
I am not really sure why they would need labs but you could always call and ask them!
@@prestigeveteranmedical seems fishy to me i called of course they don’t know what the labs are for. Called the VA they don’t know either. I’m guessing they re opened another claim from that pact act review i did a month ago.
Leah I was wondering what your opinion is if the VA skipped my C&P exam and went straight to DBQ. Is what they are doing in my best interest. Thank you for your time.
I am not sure how they would do a DBQ for back pain without having you be there in person because the DBQ for back pain requires a physical examination
Sorry Leah but I forgot to mention it was for left knee Flexion issue. They said they have everything they need.@@prestigeveteranmedical
Got it thank you for the update. Maybe they had those measurements from a previous C&P for your knee @@robertdesautels8715
@@robertdesautels8715You should have had a C&P exam because an examiner needs to physically use a goniometer to measure in degrees Range of motion in any part of your body that you filed for to help with medical diagnosis, medical records and last but not least rating
I have a quick question. I've already got a 40% rating for my lower back injury, 20% left radiculopathy, & 20% right radiculopathy. The VA Doctors want me to try a steriod epidural to see if it helps with pain. I'm just wondering if I try this, and it helps, can the VA come back and reduce my benefit percentages, claiming it's better now? Is this a possibility or not because its really just masking pain not really fixing the problems (degenerative disk disease, spinal stenosis, and lumbar spine disc bulges.
I would definitely recommend that you ask this question to an attorney. I do support 100% doing anything you/your doctors believe will help you however. Best of luck!
Leah, I recently requested an increase for my neck and my left ankle. I was at 10% for both. It has been 18 years since I got out and 17 since I did my original claims. I also requested a new service connection for sinusitis. There were other requests for increase and other new claims, but these three in particular were folded into one exam. My exam (July 2) was with a nurse practitioner at VES. In the examination she mentioned that we would be doing a ROM test on my neck and my ankle, and the then proceeded to go into detail on the difference between rhinitis and sinusitis. She went through my records while I was sitting there and said she felt that my conditions were more rhinitis vs the sinusitis that I had claimed. Then she looked at her watch and realized we were out of time and said thanks, I will look at your records and you'll hear something from VA in about 30 days. The abruptness kind of caught me off guard, and I left. When I got back to work I realized that there was no real exam/evaluation done. I emailed my VSO and documented my concerns. Then I got the survey email from VES and documented them there as well. I got a decision letter at the end of July giving me a new 10% service connection for rhinitis. I also got an increase from 10% to 20% for my neck. But I got declined an increase for my ankle. So a medical opinion was formed without doing any kind of evaluation. My question is, how should I appeal this. Supplemental claim? Higher level review? My VSO is extremely slow to answer anything and never answers his phone. Im just trying to figure out what is the best route given that I do not have any real "new" evidence but I am disputing the medical examination. Thoughts?
I am sorry to hear this sir. It sounds like you may benefit from an accredited legal professional that is attentive and responsive. Have you considered finding a different legal professional?
I just had my second spine suregery, fusion this time. First surgery results: My lower extremeties ie left leg, has numbness that runs to outside part of my foot and spreads as I am more active, i have dropfoot. My right knee patella tore(not ruptured) from imbalance and use. Was told I would eventually need a knee replacement. My calves have atrophied as well.
My 2nd surgery which I was referred to a Neurosurgeon by the VA, because I was bone on bone and needed fusion.
I am currently at 70%, and I am being reviewed because my problems have worsened. I was told I may need to find a different career. Because police work is not ideal for my future.
All this and i have a feeling I wont get 100%, yet I see friends with far less, rated higher or 100....I dont get it.
I am so sorry to hear this sir. Thank you for watching
I had a back injury that I’m still being affected by today. However when I requested my medical records my injury was not there but someone else’s. What do I do in this case?
I am not really sure about that. Have you followed up with your local VSO? I am sorry to hear this and thank you for watching.
they didnt do any of this in my last C&P exam.. the doc barley did anything or asked anything. the only thing they did was try to get me to bend, in which i coulnt whithout being in pain. he had a measurement tool, but after that he just quit
I am sorry to hear this sir. Thank you for watching and best of luck
Hi I have a question so I did a C and p exam for my back. The provider doing the exam requested an x ray then the results from the x ray showed scoliosis and curvature. I was denied the claim for back pain. Is there a way I can request another c and p exam or is there anything else I can do?
If you follow up with a legal professional like a VSO, accredited claims agent or an attorney they should be able to assist you
@ would you recommend a higher level review ?
@judoorbell1384 that is outside of my scope of services and education. It is more of a legal question
Would you say it's an inadequate c&p exam if they only take forward flexion of the back, but not the rest of all the ranges such as left/right lateral rotations?
Hi sir I do not really comment on the adequacy of exams because it is more in the legal lane if that makes sense. Thank you for watching
YES
Great video..I really appreciate you going through the DBQ. If you have not yet done, can you do the same for cervical? I will look for your video on Radiculopathy which I was just diagnosed having in additon to Promiant Facet Disease. Thank you
Yes I actually have done a neck C&P video. Here is a link: th-cam.com/video/9gpMcdVGUfU/w-d-xo.html
Looking for understanding. What is low back pain rating vs an actual physical injury rating of the back such as degenerative disc disease, bilateral neuropathy, stress fractures of the spine etc? SC low back pain since 2005, but have since had actual diagnosis. Are these “secondary” claims? Thank you for any assistance.
Hey sir! You may want to ask a legal professional about the specific administrative codes for ratings
File for increase + secondary conditions.
Do you know how they rate the back after the Range of Motion exam? I got my results of my flexion and extension and I was curious how they do it.
Here is a good blog that discusses that: cck-law.com/blog/most-common-back-conditions-veterans-experience-and-their-ratings/
Ms. Leah, how imperative is a icd code? In my military record it has my condition listed as a “diagnosis” but no icd code. Is that still a diagnosis ?
That should be fine. Thank you for watching
I have lower pain back and getting shots for almost 10 yrs now and legs, foot having issue as well start feeling numbness and tingling and everyone and then my hips and hurt to can’t event bent and reach down. Is getting surgery will hurt me filing a claims I am retiring in 15 months
I am so sorry to hear this sir. Thank you for watching
Do you guys have a doctor that the Veteran can go to for the DBQ?
For more information on our services please check out our website or contact us at info@prestigeveteranmctx.com
I recently had my c&p exam for multitude claims, but they didnt do a c&p for my back, knees, neck.
I have an MRI documented by VA that shows DDD, multiple herniated discs and lunber nerve damage. I called the va and they told me they have what they need for the dbq and didnt need to do a c&p..
Is this a good sign or no?
I am not really to sure about that. They really need to know your range of motion.
How can we reach this lady for an interview?
Hi sir please reach out to us at info@prestigeveteranmctx.com
@@prestigeveteranmedical is this her email?
I did a C&P exam for both feet Doc told me at the exam I got Planters Fasciitis but I was denied do to filing presumptive because they still let me into service. I went down to the Podiatrist’s at the VA and they did X-rays gave me insoles and special boots to wear. Should I file a supplemental claim now that I have been written an outstanding letter by my Podiatrist?
That sounds reasonable but I am not a legal expert. Have you followed up with a VSO or other legal professional?
Hi. I have an exam soon for my back. I get confused when doing my ROM. I’ve had scoliosis prior to entering and it’s gotten worse after getting out. For them to see how bad my spine is, should I completely move forward until it hurts? Or keep going even when I’m in pain so they can see how bad it really is?
I am very sorry to hear this. I would just ask your examiner, they should be able to give you instructions at the exam
I just checked on my supplemental claim for my cervical back. They told me it was assigned to a ratings specialist. Does that mean its likely approved?
Not necessarily. I would def follow up with a legal professional who should be able to provide some insight to the administrative side of things
What’s the going rate for a dbq and or nexus from your service.
You can review this information on our website
@@prestigeveteranmedical I can't seem to find it, a little help please?
@@joeb.8625 They are clearly listed on multiple pages of our website. If you would like more information you can also contact us at info@prestigeveteranmctx.com
@@prestigeveteranmedical yeah I found it thanks
I recently fell in my back yard. Due to losing my balance because of my service connected condition (Peripheral Neuropathy). Causing what my VA Doctor says is an Extreme, Chronic Herniated Disk in my lower back.
I am so sorry to hear this. Thank you for watching
i have a question can i file a claim if it not service connected
You will want to discuss with a legal professional
Is a FCE (functional capacity exam) the same as a low back c&p?
No it is not. Thank you for watching
what about hip pain from an injury while on active duty
m.th-cam.com/video/t6g6C2yVaBc/w-d-xo.html
Is there a set number of secondary claims you can file?
Not that I am aware of
What form is used for lumbar increase?
The same DBQ is used for increases. If you are specifically asking about which form is used to file for an increase you would want to check with a legal professional on that
I’m going to have a c and p for lower back. Any tips or advice please.
Hey sir best of luck! This video has the most comprehensive info that I know to provide.
@ thank you so much the examiner ordered an x ray for me now sure if that’s good or not
@@judoorbell1384 Best of luck to you and keep us posted
@@prestigeveteranmedical thank you! Is this a good thing that it was ordered?
@@judoorbell1384 I have no idea I have not reviewed your case and all of the materials related to it
Great video as usal
Thank you very much for the opportunity sir!!!
We appreciate youuuuu ❤
Thank you for watching!!
Had to do a HLR. I got denied because although the examiner said I did have in service events, recent treatments and current diagnosis.
I did not have any treatments right after the events.
I submitted buddy statements, and a nexus from my current physician and physical therapist. I’m hoping with just these nexus’s and buddy statements that HLR judge will award my claim.
I am so sorry to hear this. Best of luck to you on this and please keep me posted!
What happened? Update?
@@mattyg6898 still waiting 😔
I have Lower lumbar back which has multilevel degenerative facet arthropathy.
Sorry to hear that
What about hip pain
m.th-cam.com/video/t6g6C2yVaBc/w-d-xo.html
They just closed my case because they could not find my treatment records. What BS some days I have to roll myself out of bed.
I am sorry to hear this sir. Thankyou for watching
My back keep getting denied for “ Continuity of symptoms “. You ever seen?
Yes I have seen this in the past
@@prestigeveteranmedical how u fix that
You can start by hiring a legal professional @@teeybannister
@@prestigeveteranmedical you’re one or a lawyer?
I am not a lawyer but if you are asking for assistance with the next steps, an attorney could advise you @@teeybannister
They blamed mine on congenital scoliosis even tho I have thorough notes in service
I am sorry to hear this sir. Thank you for watching
@@prestigeveteranmedical that’s alright I have more evidence and am using your services. Wish me luck !
Thank you for the opportunity and best of luck to you!@@andrewrobinson3545
Wtf... C&P examiner was shit.
Came in for 5 minutes. Didn't do nothing ask nothing. I recorded it.
Got my claim denied because he said the only time I complained about any back issues was when I was pregnant. And since he doesn't think pregnancy back pain leads to degenerative disc syndrome it's denied. Wtf I didn't even say it did. I said it from my mos job duties. And submitted articles from army and VA stating that my mos has lower back issues. Along with my current diagnosis. Mind you I was already denied only because I didn't have a current diagnosis. I had only had back pain with letter from doctors
I am very sorry to hear this. You may want to consider linking up with a legal professional who can assist you with the appeals process.
I have ? To ask, on this symptoms Degenerative Arthritis of the Lumbosacral and Thoracic with Intervertebral Disk Syndrome is this in one VA rating or 3 different VA rating just wanted to have better clarification. I’m a bit confused
I’m not sure about that. I believe it is one but you will want to ask a legal professional to be sure
You have to bend as if it was one of your worse days. Your body had good days and bad days. Show your bad day with an MRI on hand.
Good insight. Thank you for watching
I did just that. I can barely bend and I start to feel pain. That’s what I did in my C&P exam with without a doubt I was much less than 30° but I just got a copy of my exam today and the examiner said I bent 60° For active and passive 40° for the repetitive motion one and estimated at flareups it would be 20°. She is definitely wrong on the 60° flexion overall, she did an excellent job on my exam. She basically wrote down everything. I said she added a diagnosis for IVDS which won’t mean anything because I didn’t have bedrest. I’m just a little frustrated about the 60° thing because there is no way I bent past 30° because I would be in a lot of pain. Anywhere on that long DBQ form she could write I had pain and couldn’t bend forward. She didn’t hesitate to make a note of it. I will just have to wait now and see how I’m rated some of the lawyer websites. I look at claim, you should be rated at the flareup degree, I hope I’m reading that correctly and that is the case.
Best of luck to you and keep us posted! @@Kenbot2
😍😍😍Big hugs family!
You better have medical records with an MRI because they're gonna send you to their doc who gives you an X-Ray and tells them everything is fine. When they are fully aware how much is missed with a simple X-ray
Thank you for your feedback and thank you for watching!
I just got mine and they did a pre phone call to go over it than when I got to actual appointment the so called doctor minimize my scars and lower back pain
Best of luck to you on this! Thank you for watching