Osteoporosis, a medical condition that weakens bones, can have profound impacts on veterans, particularly as it relates to Veterans Affairs (VA) disability claims. The relationship between osteoporosis and Veterans Disability is significant, as veterans who suffer from osteoporosis may be eligible for VA disability compensation if they can establish a service connection, either directly or indirectly. Leah Bucholz explains what osteoporosis is, its causes and risk factors, how it can be related to military service, and the steps veterans can take to seek disability benefits.
What is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a condition where bones become brittle and weak, increasing the risk of fractures. As the Mayo Clinic explains, it occurs when the creation of new bone doesn’t keep pace with the removal of old bone. This imbalance leads to bones becoming porous, making them more susceptible to breaks, especially in areas like the hip, wrist, and spine. While osteoporosis affects people of all races and genders, older women, particularly those of Asian and Caucasian descent, are at higher risk, especially post-menopause.
Common Symptoms
Some of the common symptoms of osteoporosis include:
- Back pain caused by a fractured or collapsed vertebra.
- Loss of height over time.
- Stooped posture or a hunched back.
- Bone fractures that occur more easily than expected, even with minor stress like bending or coughing.
The early stages of osteoporosis often go unnoticed since the weakening of bones happens gradually. For veterans, these symptoms may overlap with or exacerbate existing service-connected conditions, making the identification of osteoporosis as a contributing factor crucial for disability claims.
Causes and Risk Factors
Several factors can increase the risk of developing osteoporosis. These risk factors include:
- Age and gender: Women are more prone to osteoporosis, and the risk increases with age.
- Family history: Genetics can play a role in developing osteoporosis.
- Body frame size: Smaller body frames are at greater risk due to lower bone mass.
- Hormonal levels: A decrease in estrogen in women and testosterone in men can lead to bone loss.
- Thyroid problems: Overactive thyroid glands can contribute to the condition.
- Dietary factors: A diet low in calcium or Vitamin D increases the likelihood of developing osteoporosis.
- Medical conditions: Diseases like celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, liver or kidney disease, and certain cancers can lead to osteoporosis.
- Medications: Some medications, such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), used for treating conditions like acid reflux, can contribute to bone density loss over time.
Osteoporosis and Military Service
Primary Service Connection
Veterans can develop osteoporosis during their military service. In cases where osteoporosis is diagnosed during active duty, establishing a primary service connection is straightforward. If a veteran was diagnosed with osteoporosis while still in service, or if symptoms began during their time in the military and have continued post-service, they may be eligible for disability benefits.
Secondary Service Connection
In many cases, veterans may not develop osteoporosis directly during their time in service but rather as a secondary result of other service-connected conditions. This is particularly relevant for veterans who may take medications or have underlying health issues that increase the risk of osteoporosis. For instance, one common contributor to osteoporosis is the long-term use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), medications often prescribed for service-connected gastrointestinal conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Proton Pump Inhibitors and Osteoporosis
Several studies link prolonged PPI use to a decline in bone mineral density, increasing the risk of fractures. The International Journal of Molecular Science published a review on the relationship between PPI use and bone health, highlighting this connection. Additionally, research published in Risk Management and Health Policy reinforces the association between extended PPI use and lower bone density. Therefore, veterans who are service-connected for conditions requiring PPI treatment and who subsequently develop osteoporosis may be able to claim it as a secondary service connection.
Other Secondary Conditions
Besides medications like PPIs, other medical conditions that may be connected to service can lead to secondary osteoporosis. These include:
- Celiac disease: This autoimmune disorder affects nutrient absorption, which can weaken bones.
- Inflammatory bowel disease: Conditions like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis can interfere with calcium and Vitamin D absorption.
- Kidney and liver disease: These organs play critical roles in metabolizing nutrients necessary for bone health.
- Rheumatoid arthritis and cancers: Chronic inflammation and certain cancer treatments can lead to bone density loss.
Osteoporosis and Veterans Disability
The VA assigns disability ratings for osteoporosis based on the severity of the condition and the impact it has on a veteran’s life. Disability ratings are crucial because they determine the amount of compensation a veteran receives.
20% Disability Rating
Veterans can receive a 20% disability rating if they experience osteoporosis in two or more major joints or joint groups, with occasional incapacitating exacerbations. An exacerbation is defined as a flare-up or worsening of the condition that significantly impacts daily activities. For veterans whose osteoporosis leads to recurrent incapacitating episodes, this rating level provides recognition of the impact on their quality of life.
10% Disability Rating
A 10% disability rating is given to veterans who have osteoporosis confirmed by x-ray evidence in two or more major joints or minor joint groups. While these veterans may not experience frequent incapacitating episodes, their condition still affects their physical health and ability to perform certain tasks.
Seeking VA Disability Compensation
Veterans with osteoporosis seeking VA disability compensation must first establish a service connection. Whether the condition is directly related to their service or developed secondarily as a result of another service-connected condition, gathering evidence is crucial. Medical records, expert opinions, and evidence of symptoms that began during or after service will be vital in supporting a claim.
It’s also essential for veterans to consult an accredited legal professional, such as a Veterans Service Officer (VSO), a claims agent, or an attorney, to ensure they understand the legal aspects of their claim. While medical professionals like physician assistants can offer crucial medical opinions, navigating the legal process of filing and appealing VA claims requires specialized knowledge.
Conclusion
Osteoporosis is a serious condition that can significantly affect veterans, especially as they age or as a result of secondary conditions. Veterans diagnosed with osteoporosis may be eligible for VA disability compensation if they can demonstrate a direct or secondary service connection. Understanding the causes, risk factors, and how osteoporosis relates to military service is crucial in securing the benefits veterans deserve. Seeking medical opinions and legal guidance will improve the chances of a successful disability claim, ensuring that veterans with osteoporosis receive the support they need.
Also read: 2025 Cost of Living Allowance Increase for Veterans (COLA)!
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