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Arthritis and osteoarthritis: How veterans can get VA disability benefits

Arthritis and osteoarthritis are two common service-connectable conditions that many veterans file VA disability benefits claims for. These conditions occur frequently among veterans due to a few different reasons, many of which have to do with the physical demands of military service and other service-connectable conditions that can place strain on the body.


These conditions can significantly affect the daily lives of veterans, and as a result can be eligible for VA disability benefits. Understanding arthritis, osteoarthritis, and how the VA rates them for service-connection is the best way for veterans to be prepared going into the claim filing process. 


Here's some information on each condition, differences between the two, and how the VA rates them each:


Key differences between arthritis and osteoarthritis

What's the difference between arthritis and osteoarthritis? The simple answer is that one is a broader category than the other. Arthritis is a broader term referring to the inflammation of joints. There are many different types – and osteoarthritis is one of them, the most common and often claimed by veterans for VA disability benefits. By definition, osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint condition that causes the gradual breakdown of cartilage.


So, think of arthritis as an umbrella term for a series of different variations, osteoarthritis being one of them. 


Symptoms of arthritis and osteoarthritis include:


  • Chronic pain 

  • Joint stiffness

  • Reduced mobility

  • Swelling

  • Pain


This can occur all over the body, most often affecting the spine, knees, hips, shoulders, hands, and hips.


Why veterans are at risk for arthritis and osteoarthritis

Veterans are at a higher risk for arthritis and osteoarthritis for several different reasons that relate to time spent in the military. Here are a few different contributing factors:

  • Physical strain on the body during training and deployment

  • Other service-connected injuries that can impact the body's kinetic chain

  • Repetitive motion over years, resulting in wear and tear


How can veterans get VA disability benefits for arthritis and ostroarthritis?

It's possible to get VA disability benefits for arthritis and osteoarthritis as long as you have the right medical evidence and strong records to back up your claim. The VA recognizes these conditions as service-connectable, even if they show up years after service.


Arthritis and osteoarthritis can be service-connected in several different ways:


As with any claim, the VA requires three different elements that must be met in order to qualify for service-connection. You can read about each element in this blog.


VA disability benefit ratings for arthritis and ostroarthritis

The VA rates arthritis and osteoarthritis under the 38 CFR section 4.71a, and the rating typically hinges on limitation of motion, pain level, and functional loss. Most ratings range between 10 to 40 percent per joint. If a veteran has multiple affected joints, these can add up to a greater combined disability rating.


It's important to note: There are two rating codes for orthopedic conditions.


One rates on a particular joint with motion, and the other is for arthritis of multiple joints. You can't get both, but one may be more favorable than the other with a higher rating percentage for multiple joint arthritis you don't have a lot of limitations in range of motion on exam.


We help veterans win VA disability claims with medical documentation

Looking for a team of medical experts to help with your VA disability benefits claim process? You're in the right place. MRPY Professional Services was founded by veterans, for veterans.


We combine your medical history with our expertise to craft compelling documentation for the VA. Nexus Letters, DBQs, and our other additional services can make a difference in your claim.


View other services here.



 
 
 

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