Understanding the most common VA disability claims and how to prove service connection is crucial for veterans seeking compensation through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). From tinnitus and PTSD to physical injuries like back strains and sciatica, recognizing prevalent claims and properly documenting them can significantly enhance veterans’ quality of life.
This guide explores the 10 most common VA disability claims and offers insights into proving service connection, helping veterans secure the benefits they have earned.
Top 10 Most Common VA Disability Claims
1. Tinnitus
Tinnitus, the most common VA disability, manifests as a persistent ringing, buzzing, hissing, or roaring in the ears without an external sound source. Often caused by exposure to loud noises during military service such as gunfire, explosions, or machinery, tinnitus is prevalent among veterans in high-noise environments. The Veterans Benefits Administration reported that tinnitus was the most common service-connected disability in fiscal year 2023, with 2,944,093 veterans receiving VA compensation. In fact, there were 220,261 new compensation recipients for auditory disability.
VA Rating for Tinnitus:
Under 38 CFR § 4.87, Diagnostic Code 6260, the VA assigns a fixed 10% disability rating for tinnitus, regardless of its severity or whether it affects one or both ears. While the rating might seem minimal, linking tinnitus with other service-connected conditions, such as hearing loss, traumatic brain injury (TBI), or PTSD, can collectively increase a veteran’s overall disability compensation.
Proving Tinnitus as Service-Connected:
Diagnosing tinnitus doesn’t require extensive tests due to its subjective nature. Veterans’ self-reported symptoms of ringing in the ears, along with service records, can in some cases substantiate a VA claim. As one of the easiest VA disability claims to get approved, veterans experiencing tinnitus can receive the benefits they deserve with proper documentation.
2. Limitation of Flexion, Knee
Limitation of flexion refers to difficulty bending the knee due to conditions like arthritis, ligament tears, or cartilage damage. It is among the most common VA disability claims filed by veterans, impacting 1.85 million veterans, or 5.0% of all VA disability claims. This musculoskeletal injury can cause pain, instability, and a reduced range of motion, significantly affecting mobility and quality of life.
VA Rating for Knee Flexion Limitations:
The VA assesses knee flexion disabilities based on the degree of motion limitation, measured in degrees during medical evaluations. Disability ratings for limitation of flexion of the knee are assigned under 38 CFR § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5260, ranging from 10% for minor limitations to 60% for veterans unable to bend their knee more than 40 degrees.
Establishing Service Connection:
Veterans must provide medical documentation, such as range-of-motion tests and imaging studies, to support their claims. Additionally, showing how the knee injury impacts daily activities, such as walking, squatting, or climbing stairs, can strengthen a claim. A nexus letter from a medical professional linking their knee-related problems to military service may help veterans receive disability compensation depending on their circumstances. While never required, these documents can provide additional expert opinions on the etiology of the condition.
3. Sciatic Nerve Paralysis
Sciatic nerve paralysis, commonly known as sciatica, occurs when the sciatic nerve, the longest nerve in the body, is compressed or damaged. Paralysis of the sciatic nerve is one of the most common VA disability claims, affecting approximately 1.5 million veterans in 2023. This condition often results in pain, numbness, tingling, burning sensation, or in extreme cases, muscular atrophy radiating from the lower back down to the legs. Sciatica is frequently secondary to spinal injuries, herniated discs, or conditions like spinal stenosis. Exposure to Agent Orange, a herbicide used during the Vietnam War, has been associated with sciatic nerve damage.
VA Rating for Sciatic Nerve Damage:
The VA rates sciatic nerve paralysis under Diagnostic Code 8520, 38 CFR § 4.124a, with ratings ranging from 10% for mild symptoms to 80% for severe cases involving significant muscle weakness, foot drop, or loss of reflexes.
Establishing Service Connection:
When a VA examiner conducting your C&P exam will assess how your sciatic nerve damage impacts your daily functioning, they will physically examine you, run some tests, and ask for medical records.
Veterans must provide medical evidence, such as nerve conduction studies and treatment records in some cases, to prove their VA disability claims. Additionally, an independent medical opinion linking the condition and military service, such as carrying heavy loads or sustaining a back injury, may be beneficial in some cases depending on the history and circumstances. Those considering this option may benefit from seeking advice from an accredited legal professional like a VSO, accredited claims agent or an accredited VA attorney.
4. Hearing Loss
Hearing loss among veterans often results from prolonged exposure to high-decibel environments like aircraft engines, gunfire, or explosions. In 2023, about 1.49 million veterans received VA benefits for hearing loss. This common veterans’ disability can range from mild difficulty hearing certain sounds to profound deafness. There are three types of hearing loss, namely conductive (outer/middle ear issues), sensorineural (inner ear damage), or mixed (a combination).
The Duty MOS (Military Occupational Specialty) Noise Exposure Listing identifies military jobs with high noise exposure, increasing the risk of tinnitus and hearing loss. Veterans with higher MOS ratings are at times more likely to prove VA disability claims for compensation.
VA Rating for Hearing Loss:
The VA uses a grid system to assign disability ratings for hearing loss, ranging from 0% to 100% (VA Diagnostic Code 6100, 38 CFR § 4.85). The highest schedular rating for hearing loss is 100%, reflecting total deafness in both ears. When combined with secondary conditions like tinnitus, hearing loss can significantly increase a veteran’s overall disability rating and compensation. Veterans with a 100% disability rating for hearing loss may qualify for Special Monthly Compensation.
Proving Connection to Claim Benefits:
To claim VA benefits for hearing loss, veterans must undergo audiological testing, including the Maryland CNC Test and pure-tone audiometry. These tests measure the extent of hearing impairment and speech discrimination abilities. Service records showing noise exposure and a positive nexus linking hearing loss to military duties can be supportive of a veteran’s disability claims.
5. Lumbosacral or Cervical Strain
Lumbosacral (lower back) and cervical (neck) strains are common disability claims among veterans due to the physical demands of service, such as lifting heavy equipment, prolonged standing, or sudden impact injuries. Having impacted around 1.45 million veterans, these strains can cause pain, stiffness, and limited mobility, affecting daily activities and overall quality of life.
VA Rating for Lumbosacral or Cervical Strain:
VA ratings for back and neck conditions fall under Diagnostic Codes 5235 to 5243, 38 CFR § 4.71a ranging between 10% and 100%, depending on the severity of the range-of-motion neck limitations and associated symptoms like muscle spasms or nerve pain. A 10% VA rating is assigned for slight range-of-motion limitations, increasing to 20%-50% for moderate spasms or nerve issues. A 100% VA rating is assigned for total immobility, debilitating pain, or severe nerve damage.
How to Prove Service Connection:
Veterans undergo C&P (Compensation and Pension) exams to assess back motion using a goniometer. They evaluate the range of motion and flare-ups, which help determine an accurate disability rating for the veteran. Secondary conditions to lumbosacral or cervical strain, such as sciatica, herniated discs, chronic back pain, or other nerve-related issues, may qualify veterans for additional compensation. Medical documentation and a clear nexus opinion from the VA C&P examiner, a treating provider or another licensed healthcare professional familiar with the veteran’s history are often key to establishing disability compensation for these debilitating neurological conditions.
6. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition triggered by traumatic events like combat, military sexual trauma, or the death of fellow veterans experienced or witnessed during military service. According to the Department of Veteran Affairs, nearly 7% of veterans experience PTSD in their lifetime, compared to 6% of civilians. Veterans who served in the Gulf War or Iraq and Afghanistan face an 11-20% higher risk of developing post-traumatic stress disorder.
Symptoms of PTSD include flashbacks, nightmares, heightened anxiety, and avoidance behaviors, disrupting daily life, relationships, and occupational functioning.
VA Ratings for PTSD:
The VA evaluates PTSD claims based on the severity of social and occupational impairment, assigning ratings of 0%, 30%, 50%, 70%, and 100% under Diagnostic Code 9411, 38 CFR § 4.130. If a veteran has both PTSD and another mental health disorder like anxiety, the VA assigns a single combined disability rating.
Post-traumatic stress disorder is considered a high-value disability claim with most cases rated at least 70%. Roughly 1.45 million veterans have successfully received VA benefits for PTSD, making it one of the most common VA disability claims.
Establishing Service Connection:
Veterans seeking benefits related to a l PTSD claim often provide:
- Evidence of a service-related stressor
- A current diagnosis, and
- A medical nexus letter or statement from a mental health professional, for example, a psychiatrist or psychologist linking the condition to their military service.
Statements from family or friends describing behavioral changes, treatment records detailing therapy or medication and service records can also support the claim.
7. Limitation of Motion, Arm
Limited arm mobility can result from injuries, fractures, or degenerative arthritis affecting the shoulder or elbow. It has resulted in over 1.03 million VA disability claims for disability compensation. Limitation of arm motion can cause pain, stiffness, or swelling and restrict daily activities, such as lifting, reaching, or performing overhead tasks.
VA Ratings for Arm Limitations:
The VA rates arm motion limitations under Diagnostic Code 5201, CFR § 4.71a, considering whether the dominant or non-dominant arm is affected. Ratings range from 10% for minor limitations to 40%-50% for severe restrictions or joint immobility at shoulder level. If a shoulder or arm condition prevents the veteran from maintaining substantial employment, they may qualify for total disability based on individual unemployability (TDIU).
How to Prove Service Connection:
Veterans often provide medical evidence, including X-rays, range-of-motion tests, treatment records, and lay statements when applicable to support their claims. Moreover, the VA may schedule a C&P exam to evaluate the veteran’s arm condition, measure the range of motion, and provide a service-related opinion. Veterans often document all symptoms of secondary conditions to arm limitations like nerve damage or pain in adjacent joints.
8. Limitation of Motion, Ankle
Limitation of motion in the ankle is the inability to move the ankle joint which service members experience due to the physical demands of training, running, and jumping or traumatic accidents. Limitation of motion in the ankle often stems from sprains, fractures, or degenerative arthritis, leading to chronic pain and reduced mobility. According to the United States Parachute Association, ankle injuries make up for 30-60% of all paratrooper injuries.
VA Ratings for Ankle Limitations:
The VA rates ankle conditions under Diagnostic Code 5271, with disability ratings of 10% for moderate limitation of ankle motion and 20% for severe limitation. Ankle injuries can lead to secondary conditions, such as plantar fasciitis, knee or hip problems, which may qualify for increased disability compensation.
How to Prove Service Connection:
To support your limitation of motion in an ankle disability claim, many provide medical evidence and VA C&P exam findings showing a reduced range of motion, pain, instability, or swelling. Some veterans consider submitting a strong nexus letter depending on circumstances connecting their musculoskeletal disability to a specific in-service event, injury, or aggravation. Nearly 1.03 million veterans have been granted disability benefits for limited motion of the ankle.
9. Migraines
Migraines, severe headaches often accompanied by nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, and dizziness, are common VA disability claims. According to the American Migraine Foundation, military veterans may be more likely to suffer migraine attacks and headaches, often resulting from traumatic brain injuries and other combat-related stress. It can also be related to exposure to noise or chemicals during military service.
VA Ratings for Migraine:
The VA rates migraines under 38 C.F.R. 4.124a, Neurological Conditions and Convulsive Disorders, Diagnostic Code 8100, with ratings as follows:
- 0% for less frequent migraine attacks
- 10% for prostrating attacks averaging one in 2 months
- 30% for migraine attacks averaging once a month
- 50% for frequent, prostrating attacks causing economic inadaptability
Migraine headaches are a debilitating neurological condition, affecting over 950,000 veterans receiving VA disability compensation. It is a high-value claim because veterans have more chances of getting rated at 30% or higher.
Establishing Migraines as Service-Connected:
Veterans often maintain a detailed migraine journal, documenting the frequency, severity, and duration of attacks, as well as their impact on work and daily life. Medical records, nexus letters, and statements from fellow service members are helpful in some cases for supporting a claim. Migraines are also often filed as a secondary claim if they are aggravated by another service-connected condition, such as neck pain or a traumatic brain injury.
10. Scarring
Scars, a visible reminder of injuries sustained during service-related combat injuries, burns, or surgeries, can cause physical and emotional challenges for many veterans. Around 937,680 veterans in 2023 filed VA disability claims and secured benefits for scarring.
VA Ratings for Scarring:
The VA rates scars under Diagnostic Codes 7800–7805 in the Schedule of Ratings for skin conditions, based on size, location, and functional impairment. Ratings can be 0% for minor scars, 10% for scars over 6 square inches, 20%-30% for larger or disfiguring scars, and 40%-80% for severe disfigurement or movement restrictions.
Claiming VA Benefits for Scars:
For Veterans looking to get a VA disability claim approved for scars, obtaining a medical diagnosis, proof of service connection, and a nexus opinion stating that symptoms are recurring or persistent and that they are related to service can be important. Veterans often provide detailed medical records, photographs, private medical records, and buddy statements, highlighting how the scars affect daily life.
Functional limitations, such as restricted joint mobility due to scar tissue, should also be documented. In cases of facial scars, which may affect social interactions or self-esteem, psychological evaluations can strengthen the claim.
How to Prove Service Connection for VA Disability Claims
Proving a service connection is essential to securing VA disability benefits. Veterans must demonstrate that their condition is directly linked to their military service.
Direct Service Connection
Direct service connection is proven when a condition originates or worsens during active duty. Key elements include:
- Current Diagnosis: Veterans must have a documented medical condition.
- In-Service Event: Evidence of an injury, illness, or exposure during military service is required.
- Nexus Evidence: This medical information connects the in-service event to the current diagnosis.
Examples include hearing loss from prolonged noise exposure or PTSD from combat trauma.
Secondary Service Connection
When a service-connected condition leads to another disability, veterans often claim a secondary service connection. For instance, a knee injury causing hip problems can qualify. Medical records showing the causal or aggravational relationship strengthen these secondary service connection claims.
Presumptive Service Connection
Certain conditions, like those related to the Vietnam War, Agent Orange exposure, or Gulf War Syndrome, are presumed service-connected. Veterans meeting specific criteria, such as time and location of service, do not need to prove a direct link as it may be presumed related to service..
Aggravation of Pre-Existing Conditions
If a pre-existing condition worsened due to military service, veterans may be eligible for disability compensation for the increased severity. For instance, a veteran’s asthma worsened from burn pit exposure during service may qualify for compensation with adequate medical proof.
How a Nexus Letter Helps
A nexus letter is an independent medical opinion that links a veteran’s current condition to their military service. It is especially helpful in cases when the service connection is not immediately evident. The letter should:
- Be written by a qualified medical professional.
- Provide a detailed explanation of how the condition is related to military service.
- Use VA-compliant language, including phrases such as “at least as likely as not.”
A nexus letter from an independent medical opinion provider can significantly strengthen a claim and increase the likelihood of approval.
Resources like Veterans Service Officers (VSOs) and legal advocates can provide essential guidance, assist with gathering evidence, and navigate the VA claims process to maximize veterans’ chances of securing rightful benefits.
Conclusion
Proving service connection for the most common VA disability claims requires careful preparation, detailed medical evidence, and a medical nexus opinion. Remember that it is important to note that a medical opinion can be provided at little to no cost by a treating provider or at the VA C&P examination. By understanding the claims process and leveraging resources like Veterans Service Officers, veterans can improve their chances of approval. The VA disability system is designed to honor your sacrifices and provide the compensation necessary to navigate service-related challenges effectively.
FAQs
What is the most approved disability for VA?
Tinnitus is the most approved VA disability, affecting nearly 3 million veterans, with over 220,000 new compensation recipients in 2023.
Which is the easiest VA disability claim to get approved?
Tinnitus is considered one of the easiest VA disability claims to get approved due to its subjective nature.
What is the most commonly awarded VA claim?
Tinnitus, limitation of knee flexion, sciatic nerve paralysis, and hearing loss are the most commonly awarded VA claims.
What gets you 100% VA disability?
If a service-related condition prevents a veteran’s substantial employment, then they can qualify for a, 100% VA disability rating through Total Disability Individual Unemployability (TDIU). Additionally, a veteran may obtain 100% disability if the sum of their schedular disabilities equals this utilizing VA math.
What are the common VA disability claims for women?
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), military sexual trauma (MST), gynaecological conditions, migraines, and musculoskeletal injuries are common VA disability claims women file.
Also read: How to Find Nexus Letter Doctors Near Me: Practical Tips
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Leveraging an extensive network of licensed independent medical professionals, all well-versed in the medical professional aspects of the VA claims process, we review the necessary medical evidence to incorporate in our reports related to your VA Disability Claim.
Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting is not a law firm, accredited claims agent, or affiliated with the Veterans Administration or Veterans Services Organizations. However, we are happy to discuss your case with your accredited VA legal professional.