Back pain is one of the most common reasons veterans seek VA disability benefits, and for good reason. The physical strain of military service—whether from heavy lifting, high-impact training, or combat—can lead to long-lasting spinal issues. One severe form of back pain is radiculopathy, caused by compressed or damaged nerves that radiate pain into the arms or legs. But can this type of chronic back pain qualify as a service-connected disability?
The short answer is yes. But getting your claim approved involves more than just showing you’re in pain.
Understanding Chronic Back Pain with Radiculopathy
Radiculopathy is nerve pain that results when a nerve root in the spine becomes pinched or inflamed. It often causes radiating pain, numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness, depending on which part of the spine is affected:
- Cervical Radiculopathy: Affects the neck and arms
- Thoracic Radiculopathy: Affects the torso
- Lumbar Radiculopathy: Affects the lower back and legs
In veterans, radiculopathy is commonly tied to spinal degeneration, disc herniation, or injuries sustained during service.
How Does the VA Rate Back Pain with Radiculopathy?
The VA rates back conditions under the General Rating Formula for Diseases and Injuries of the Spine and may also assign separate ratings for neurological impairments such as radiculopathy.
For example:
- A veteran with degenerative disc disease and lumbar radiculopathy could receive one rating for the spinal condition and another for the nerve damage in each affected limb.
- Ratings are based on the severity of symptoms, such as limited range of motion, pain during movement, and neurological deficits.
Each nerve group affected by radiculopathy—such as the sciatic or femoral nerve—has its own rating criteria under the Schedule for Rating Disabilities (38 CFR Part 4).
Establishing a Service Connection for Radiculopathy
To receive VA benefits, you need to prove that your radiculopathy is related to your military service. This requires three key elements:
- Current Diagnosis: You must have a medical diagnosis of radiculopathy supported by imaging or clinical findings.
- In-Service Event or Injury: You’ll need to identify a specific incident or repetitive trauma during service that may have caused or aggravated your condition.
- Medical Nexus: A qualified medical provider must link your radiculopathy to your military service.
Can Radiculopathy Be Secondary to Another Service-Connected Condition?
Absolutely. In many cases, radiculopathy is not the primary condition but a secondary result of another service-connected spinal issue. For example:
- You may be eligible for a secondary service connection for radiculopathy if you have a service-connected rating for herniated discs or degenerative joint disease.
- A medical opinion must still establish that your radiculopathy is "at least as likely as not" caused or aggravated by the primary condition.
Secondary service connections can significantly increase your combined disability rating and, in some cases, qualify you for Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU) if your symptoms prevent you from maintaining gainful employment.
Evidence That Strengthens Your VA Claim
When submitting your claim, strong evidence is crucial. Here’s what can help:
- MRI or CT Scans showing nerve compression or spinal degeneration
- Neurological Exams documenting numbness, weakness, or loss of reflexes
- Service Medical Records indicating in-service back injuries or complaints
- Lay Statements from family or fellow servicemembers who observed your symptoms
- Nexus Letter from a VA doctor or private physician linking your current condition to service
VA Disability Ratings for Radiculopathy
Depending on the severity and how many limbs are affected, radiculopathy ratings can vary widely:
- Mild symptoms: May receive a 10% rating
- Moderate symptoms: Could earn 20–40%
- Severe symptoms or involvement of multiple limbs: Could result in even higher combined ratings
Keep in mind that if multiple nerve groups are involved—such as both legs—each may be rated separately.
What If Your Claim Is Denied?
Don’t lose hope. Many valid claims are denied due to incomplete documentation or a missing nexus. If your claim is denied:
- File a Supplemental Claim with new and relevant evidence
- Request a Higher-Level Review if you believe an error was made
- Appeal to the Board of Veterans' Appeals for a fresh look at your case
Legal representation can make all the difference during these stages.
Why Legal Guidance Matters
Radiculopathy claims can be complex due to overlapping symptoms and multiple conditions. An experienced VA disability attorney in Atlanta can:
- Review your military and medical records
- Assist in gathering strong medical evidence
- Coordinate with medical professionals to obtain nexus opinions
- Navigate the appeals process if necessary
Social Security Disability Insurance
In navigating the intricate realm of social security disability claims, especially among veterans dealing with chronic back pain with radiculopathy, partnering with seasoned professionals can be a game-changer. At Affleck & Gordon, we are dedicated to providing you with tailored guidance and steadfast support in asserting your rightful claims. With our deep knowledge of SSDI processes and empathetic approach, you're well-positioned to illuminate your path to obtaining vital benefits. Visit our Atlanta, GA office or contact us today at (404) 990-3945 to learn how we can support your journey to financial and health security.