For many veterans, service-connected neck and back conditions can lead to secondary health issues that significantly impact daily life. If you’ve recently undergone surgery or experienced chronic pain, it’s crucial to recognize potential secondary conditions that may qualify for additional VA disability compensation.
Don’t Overlook Secondary Conditions
Many veterans experience additional health issues stemming from their primary service-connected conditions. If your neck issues are causing migraines, depression, gastrointestinal problems, or other unexplained symptoms, it’s worth investigating whether they qualify as secondary conditions. Understanding secondary conditions can make a significant difference in your VA disability rating and benefits.
Common Secondary Conditions Linked to Neck and Back Disabilities
Service-connected neck, shoulder, and back conditions can affect various parts of the body, including:
- Hips, Knees, and Ankles – Misalignment or pain can lead to joint problems.
- Feet – Posture changes from back pain can cause foot issues.
- Arms and Hands – Nerve compression may lead to tingling, numbness, or weakness.
- Mental Health – Chronic pain can contribute to depression and anxiety.
One of the most common secondary conditions is radiculopathy, which occurs when nerve roots are compressed, causing pain, numbness, and weakness in the arms or legs. Another related condition is peripheral neuropathy, which involves nerve damage leading to tingling, numbness, or pain in the extremities.
Recognizing Symptoms of Secondary Conditions
Symptoms of radiculopathy or neuropathy can include:
- Shooting pain in the legs or arms
- Numbness and tingling in fingers, hands, or feet
- Weakness or loss of motor function
- Chronic discomfort that worsens over time
Many veterans with cervical, thoracic, or lumbar issues experience shooting pain down their legs or arms. If these symptoms develop, it’s crucial to get medical documentation to support a secondary claim.
Key VA Diagnostic Codes for Neck and Back Conditions
Understanding how the VA rates spinal and nerve conditions can help you file a strong claim. Here are some relevant diagnostic codes:
- 5237 – Lumbosacral or Cervical Strain (General back pain conditions)
- 5238 – Spinal Stenosis (Narrowing of the spinal canal pressing on nerves)
- 5239 – Spondylolisthesis or Segmental Instability (Vertebrae slipping out of place)
- 5240 – Ankylosing Spondylitis (Arthritic disease that causes spinal joints to freeze)
- 5241 – Spinal Fusion (Surgical fusion of vertebrae, or spontaneous fusion due to damage)
- 5235 – Vertebral Fracture or Dislocation (Spinal bone fractures or alignment issues from trauma)
Each of these conditions can contribute to nerve damage, which may qualify for a secondary service connection.
Filing a Secondary Claim for Radiculopathy or Neuropathy
If you are already service-connected for a neck or back condition and develop radiculopathy or neuropathy, you may be eligible for a secondary claim. Here’s what you’ll need:
- A Diagnosis – A medical professional must confirm radiculopathy or peripheral neuropathy.
- Symptoms Documentation – Record instances where your symptoms flare up (e.g., difficulty bending over, pain in legs or arms, numbness in fingers or feet).
- A Nexus Letter – A doctor must provide a medical opinion stating that your secondary condition is “at least as likely as not” caused by your primary service-connected condition.
Get Help with Your VA Claim
Navigating the VA claims process can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. If you need guidance, consider working with a Veterans Service Organization (VSO) such as Disabled American Veterans (DAV), Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), or American Legion. These organizations offer free assistance in filing VA claims and appealing decisions. You can find a local VSO representative through the VA’s official website: www.va.gov/disability/get-help-filing-claim/.
For additional medical evidence, such as Nexus letters or symptom documentation, visit the VA’s Compensation & Pension (C&P) Examination page: www.va.gov/disability/compensation-rates/. Filing a well-supported secondary claim can increase your disability rating and ensure you receive the benefits you deserve.
Final Thoughts
If you’re experiencing symptoms that may be linked to a service-connected condition, don’t ignore them. Secondary conditions like radiculopathy and neuropathy can significantly impact your quality of life, and the VA provides pathways to receive proper compensation. Take proactive steps by gathering medical evidence, consulting with experts, and filing a strong claim to secure the benefits you earned through your service.
