For anyone wondering, Eugene is the man. Hands down the most knowledgeable person Ive ever spoken to regarding VA disability compensation. And Ive talked to a lot of them. I highly recommend his book "The Irate Veteran!" Thanks again, Eugene, for what your doing for other vets.
Here is an interesting question about surgical candidate. Patient willing doctor advices against it because another condition is severe enough that Dr. feels surgery will not make a differeance?
Thanks. a Madness 🙏🙏 I and family are reading your book together. We still have a ways to go but we’re getting through your very interesting and extremely informative book. 🙏🙏
Really enjoy the videos. Thank you so much for the information. I just had my first two C&P exams last week. I have two more in four days. Is it too late to submit personal statements or have nexus letters written? Save those for an appeal or do them now?
This response is not intended to be legal advice. I am not a lawyer or claims agent. Per my personal knowledge and direct experience, the main reason for writing a statement is two parts: (1) to document your problems related to your claim so the C&P examiner will be fully informed about your situation; and (2) by writing out your claim issues you’ll be well prepared for the C&P exam. It doesn’t do much good to send a statement for the exams that are competed, but you can still submit statements for any claims that haven’t had the exam yet. Nexus opinions should be sent in with the claim; however, they can be sent in at any time. I never recommend getting a nexus upfront as the claim may win on its merits. For the claims that already had the exams I’d hold off on statements/nexus; if you lose, you can submit them on a supplemental claim or appeal. If you want to help build a better VA, don’t forget to check out my book: www.amazon.com/dp/B0CPTNRMD8.
I have filed my BDD claim and done my C&P exams. I discovered I should have claimed at least 2-3 other conditions. I have not yet received my VA rating. Should I file a supplemental claim now or wait until I receive my initial rating?
If you can’t add them through BDD, then you’ll have to file new claims immediately after separation (do not procrastinate). Supplemental claims are only used to dispute an already decided claim issue. Since these are new issues, you’ll use the standard claim application (VA form 21-526ez) to file. Also ensure you’ve reported these other issues in your service medical record as problems. If you need help to file after service, contact a county veteran service representative or a veteran service organization.
Excellent presentation. I have 10% for arthritis in my big toe. It is super painful and definitely affects how I walk. I also have arthritis in my hips, knees and hands which aren't rated. Since the toe is already service connected would VA find the other joints to be service connected as well even though the other joints weren't identified during active duty? Thanks for the info.
This response is not intended to be legal advice. I am not a lawyer or claims agent. Per my personal knowledge and direct experience, as with all claims, you need to identify a plausible theory of how the other joint issues are related to service. Since other joints weren’t noted as problems during service, you’d have to explain how the joints are related to service on a secondary basis. For example, if your foot issue has resulted in an abnormal gate and the gate issue has resulted in stress on the other joints causing the arthritis condition. If you want to help build a better VA, don’t forget to check out my book: www.amazon.com/dp/B0CPTNRMD8.
This response is not intended to be legal or medical advice. I am not a lawyer, medical professional, or claims agent. Per my personal knowledge and direct experience, secondary claims can be filed when a service-connected (SC) issue is causing or aggravating a secondary medical issue. In other words, you’ll need evidence showing how your current SC issues are causing or aggravating the secondary medical issue. I know of no reasonable evidence for knee/back issues directly causing problems with the feet. Feet causing knee and back problems, yes, but I have not found any evidence that the reverse is true. Do your own research, maybe you’ll find something. There is an indirect possibility: if the knees/back issues have caused you to gain weight, then that weight may be the problem causing the foot issues; thus, SC can be justified per weight gain.
I’ve had surgery on my right foot, plantar release and gastroc recession. The right side of my foot and the last 2 toes are paralyzed with no sensation. They nicked the nerve. I’m rated at 50% for my feet. Is this loss of use?
Loss of use typically involves decreased mobility; thus, if your condition results in decreased mobility, it may qualify. The loss of sensitivity without any functional impact likely does not meet the criteria for loss of use. Don’t forget to check out my book: www.amazon.com/dp/B0CPTNRMD8.
It’s already happening to me. I just have bought of my big toes amputated. I’m already 100% and I’m now working on Homebound but I asked my VA Doctor about it and she told me that she doesn’t know anything about it. Can you please help me?❤I can’t stand and I can’t walk anymore. I think it’s time for me to just take a very long walk and just end it. But I can’t walk be I will find a way.
This response is not intended to be legal advice. I am not a lawyer or claims agent. Per my personal knowledge and direct experience, treating medical staff at VA medical facilities are often unaware of compensation benefits, so that isn’t unusual. Keep in mind to receive the housebound or any other special monthly compensation (SMC) benefit the loss of your toes must be related to your service. The AA/housebound form 21-2680 is a required form for the housebound benefit (SMC-S). Ask your primary to fill out the form. If you have a problem, contact the patient advocate of social worker at your VA facility. You may also qualify for the SMC-L due to loss of use of your feet due to the toe amputations see my SMC video. A loss of use claim does not require the 2680. A loss of use claim sounds like a better way to go and it pays at a higher rate. I would apply for both. If one doesn't work maybe the other will. If you want to help build a better VA, don’t forget to check out my book: www.amazon.com/dp/B0CPTNRMD8.
How can I show that I entered the army with flat feet and that my condition was aggrevated by my service but the no records were provided to me. What can I do? Should I just file a claim for flat feet?
If you left service with flatfeet there is no need to prove it predated service. To win a claim for flatfeet you have to have evidence of flatfeet while in service. If you entered service with good feet and left with flatfeet it’s an easy SC: it appears this is your case; however, if there is no evidence in service of flatfeet, realistically there is very little hope of winning the claim. If you want to help build a better VA, don’t forget to check out my book: www.amazon.com/dp/B0CPTNRMD8.
As with all service connected (SC) conditions, if the SC disability is causing another disability, that disability can be SC as a secondary. The key term is disability; thus, the Achilles tendon problem would need to be a diagnosed medical condition. If you want to help build a better VA, don’t forget to check out my book: www.amazon.com/dp/B0CPTNRMD8.
The first rule for all claims is that you have a current disability. If you have a current disability related to the toenail removal, then you have a claim. If you want to help build a better VA, don’t forget to check out my book: www.amazon.com/dp/B0CPTNRMD8.
@@comodice905 Relevant information absolutely wins claims. Many of the claims I’ve won were directly due to supporting information I found on the internet.
@@comodice905 I did have a video that would have been helpful but since no one ever watched it I took it down. My spine statements video does explain how to use published information to support claims.
Hello Irate Veteran I’m rated 50% pes planus but, a recent MRI revealed I have osteoarthritis in my first through fifth metatarsals could I get rated for that also? Thanks…
Arthritis can be service connected, but it cannot be awarded a rating in addition to your 50% foot rating. As noted in the video, anything can happen at the board; however, in this case it is unlikely separate ratings would be awarded. I’d still get the arthritis service connected, just in case your feet get worse in the future.
Great info from Both great job but i did notice a few times when you ask a ? Or wanting confirmation you didnt give atty the floor to respond just keep on Mowing thur. But I think it could have been unintentionally. Again great video lots of info. thank you Both
Eugene, I’m a Vietnam Vet. My feet were wet almost my whole tour. My toes and toenails became fungal infected. They still are today. The podiatrist at the VA says it will never go away. Is there any disability rating for fungal infections? I’ve suffered with it for about 54 years. Thanks.
As with any issue that started in service, continued after service, and is currently diagnosed, it can be service connected. Possible ratings are determined per the General Rating Formula For The Skin on the rating schedule. Don’t forget to check out my book: www.amazon.com/dp/B0CPTNRMD8.
I have a severe left foot fracture. Plus bone spur removal. Bilateral flat feet 20% Having right knee issues since bone spur surgery. Orthopedics said suedo gout secondary patella chondromalacia. I ask both orthopedics and podiatry what is causing constant knee pain. They told me to talk to the other specialists for that. Back and forth isnt working. Should i seek a private doctor to get a reason or nexus per se?
Typically, treatment providers treat. They do not consider cause. Knee issues secondary to foot problems is a commonly won claim. It’s generally accepted that feet can lead to knee problems, so a private nexus may not be needed.
Keep in mind, realistically, you need a diagnosis for the problem. A claim without a diagnosed medical condition will very likely lose. Pain in itself does not make for a good claim.
I broke my foot in service. I have a 0% service connection for the foot. It causes pain to this day. X-ray and MRI found nothing. Do i have any chance at a rating increase?
Broken bones that have properly healed only get a 0% rating even if painful; however, if there is pain and a functional problem such as a limp, then it can be rated over 0%. Don’t forget to check out my book: www.amazon.com/dp/B0CPTNRMD8.
I have bilatteral plantar fasciitis rated at 10% Bi latteraal small nerve peripheral neurapathy that isnt rated yet. the neuropathy is worse . will be interesting what will happen
Ankles are completely separate claims and are not part of a foot claim. I am SC for both feet and both ankles. I single bilateral rating at 50% for my feet and 20% for the left ankle and 20% for the right ankle. If you want to help build a better VA, don’t forget to check out my book: www.amazon.com/dp/B0CPTNRMD8.
Lower extremity amputations are rated under codes 5160-5173. I have never seen the VA get an amputation rating wrong as it’s a pretty straight forward rating. There is an amputation or there is not, very easy to rate.
GREAT REVIEWS I was granted 50%SC but since I have total Disability, but Since I'm A viet nam vet VA is refusing to increase due to plantiis facitis and toe pains...??I'm lost
If you are already paid at the 100% rate, more ratings do not increase payments unless special monthly compensation (SMC) is warranted. If you have questions or need any specific advice, just fill out the contact form at vamadness.com. Don’t forget to check out my book: www.amazon.com/dp/B0CPTNRMD8.
Generally, service connecting a disability requires three elements; (1) a current diagnosis, (2) an event in service, and (3) a medical nexus (link) between the event in service and the current diagnosis. The nexus is typically provided at the C&P exam if the other elements are present. As long as the issue started in service, symptoms continued after service, and you have a current diagnosis, then of course file the claim.
Foot problems can cause other problems in the lower extremity including pain. If your foot issues have caused other disabilities to develop, those disabilities can be service connected. Keep in mind, realistically, a diagnosis is required for any claimed issues.
For anyone wondering, Eugene is the man. Hands down the most knowledgeable person Ive ever spoken to regarding VA disability compensation. And Ive talked to a lot of them. I highly recommend his book "The Irate Veteran!" Thanks again, Eugene, for what your doing for other vets.
Insane zo insane
Here is an interesting question about surgical candidate. Patient willing doctor advices against it because another condition is severe enough that Dr. feels surgery will not make a differeance?
As long as the doctor puts that advice in your medical notes, you have a good argument to justify a higher rating.
Great informative video. Thanks for all you do for veterans
Thanks. a Madness 🙏🙏
I and family are reading your book together. We still have a ways to go but we’re getting through your very interesting and extremely informative book. 🙏🙏
Another awesome video!
Great video. This helps me a lot. I have many foot problems.
Really enjoy the videos. Thank you so much for the information. I just had my first two C&P exams last week. I have two more in four days. Is it too late to submit personal statements or have nexus letters written? Save those for an appeal or do them now?
This response is not intended to be legal advice. I am not a lawyer or claims agent. Per my personal knowledge and direct experience, the main reason for writing a statement is two parts: (1) to document your problems related to your claim so the C&P examiner will be fully informed about your situation; and (2) by writing out your claim issues you’ll be well prepared for the C&P exam. It doesn’t do much good to send a statement for the exams that are competed, but you can still submit statements for any claims that haven’t had the exam yet. Nexus opinions should be sent in with the claim; however, they can be sent in at any time. I never recommend getting a nexus upfront as the claim may win on its merits. For the claims that already had the exams I’d hold off on statements/nexus; if you lose, you can submit them on a supplemental claim or appeal. If you want to help build a better VA, don’t forget to check out my book: www.amazon.com/dp/B0CPTNRMD8.
I have filed my BDD claim and done my C&P exams. I discovered I should have claimed at least 2-3 other conditions. I have not yet received my VA rating. Should I file a supplemental claim now or wait until I receive my initial rating?
If you can’t add them through BDD, then you’ll have to file new claims immediately after separation (do not procrastinate). Supplemental claims are only used to dispute an already decided claim issue. Since these are new issues, you’ll use the standard claim application (VA form 21-526ez) to file. Also ensure you’ve reported these other issues in your service medical record as problems. If you need help to file after service, contact a county veteran service representative or a veteran service organization.
Excellent presentation. I have 10% for arthritis in my big toe. It is super painful and definitely affects how I walk. I also have arthritis in my hips, knees and hands which aren't rated. Since the toe is already service connected would VA find the other joints to be service connected as well even though the other joints weren't identified during active duty? Thanks for the info.
This response is not intended to be legal advice. I am not a lawyer or claims agent. Per my personal knowledge and direct experience, as with all claims, you need to identify a plausible theory of how the other joint issues are related to service. Since other joints weren’t noted as problems during service, you’d have to explain how the joints are related to service on a secondary basis. For example, if your foot issue has resulted in an abnormal gate and the gate issue has resulted in stress on the other joints causing the arthritis condition. If you want to help build a better VA, don’t forget to check out my book: www.amazon.com/dp/B0CPTNRMD8.
Thank you for everything you do!
Im service connected for my knees and through my knees my lower back can i use those two as a precedent to go after foot issues
This response is not intended to be legal or medical advice. I am not a lawyer, medical professional, or claims agent. Per my personal knowledge and direct experience, secondary claims can be filed when a service-connected (SC) issue is causing or aggravating a secondary medical issue. In other words, you’ll need evidence showing how your current SC issues are causing or aggravating the secondary medical issue. I know of no reasonable evidence for knee/back issues directly causing problems with the feet. Feet causing knee and back problems, yes, but I have not found any evidence that the reverse is true. Do your own research, maybe you’ll find something. There is an indirect possibility: if the knees/back issues have caused you to gain weight, then that weight may be the problem causing the foot issues; thus, SC can be justified per weight gain.
I’ve had surgery on my right foot, plantar release and gastroc recession. The right side of my foot and the last 2 toes are paralyzed with no sensation. They nicked the nerve. I’m rated at 50% for my feet. Is this loss of use?
Loss of use typically involves decreased mobility; thus, if your condition results in decreased mobility, it may qualify. The loss of sensitivity without any functional impact likely does not meet the criteria for loss of use. Don’t forget to check out my book: www.amazon.com/dp/B0CPTNRMD8.
Wow. So much note worthy information and spelled out so clearly. Thank you!
You’re welcome. Don’t forget to check out my book: www.amazon.com/dp/B0CPTNRMD8.
Thank you for the information.
Great video 👍👍
It’s already happening to me. I just have bought of my big toes amputated. I’m already 100% and I’m now working on Homebound but I asked my VA Doctor about it and she told me that she doesn’t know anything about it. Can you please help me?❤I can’t stand and I can’t walk anymore. I think it’s time for me to just take a very long walk and just end it. But I can’t walk be I will find a way.
This response is not intended to be legal advice. I am not a lawyer or claims agent. Per my personal knowledge and direct experience, treating medical staff at VA medical facilities are often unaware of compensation benefits, so that isn’t unusual. Keep in mind to receive the housebound or any other special monthly compensation (SMC) benefit the loss of your toes must be related to your service. The AA/housebound form 21-2680 is a required form for the housebound benefit (SMC-S). Ask your primary to fill out the form. If you have a problem, contact the patient advocate of social worker at your VA facility. You may also qualify for the SMC-L due to loss of use of your feet due to the toe amputations see my SMC video. A loss of use claim does not require the 2680. A loss of use claim sounds like a better way to go and it pays at a higher rate. I would apply for both. If one doesn't work maybe the other will. If you want to help build a better VA, don’t forget to check out my book: www.amazon.com/dp/B0CPTNRMD8.
What was that case you sited about loss of use? So i can look it up. Please.
How can I show that I entered the army with flat feet and that my condition was aggrevated by my service but the no records were provided to me. What can I do? Should I just file a claim for flat feet?
If you left service with flatfeet there is no need to prove it predated service. To win a claim for flatfeet you have to have evidence of flatfeet while in service. If you entered service with good feet and left with flatfeet it’s an easy SC: it appears this is your case; however, if there is no evidence in service of flatfeet, realistically there is very little hope of winning the claim. If you want to help build a better VA, don’t forget to check out my book: www.amazon.com/dp/B0CPTNRMD8.
what about achilles tendon problem caused by knee problem
As with all service connected (SC) conditions, if the SC disability is causing another disability, that disability can be SC as a secondary. The key term is disability; thus, the Achilles tendon problem would need to be a diagnosed medical condition. If you want to help build a better VA, don’t forget to check out my book: www.amazon.com/dp/B0CPTNRMD8.
I played basketball for my company for 3 years I hurt my foot twice where they had to remove my big toe nail on both feet can I make a claim ?
The first rule for all claims is that you have a current disability. If you have a current disability related to the toenail removal, then you have a claim. If you want to help build a better VA, don’t forget to check out my book: www.amazon.com/dp/B0CPTNRMD8.
Does it help to submit bva decisions and articles relating to veterans and disabilities
General information is useless. Specific information supporting your “exact situation” will be helpful.
@@VAMADNESS insane did u find it mattered
@@comodice905 Relevant information absolutely wins claims. Many of the claims I’ve won were directly due to supporting information I found on the internet.
@VAMADNESS du u have any videos laying oit exactly 🤔 how
@@comodice905 I did have a video that would have been helpful but since no one ever watched it I took it down. My spine statements video does explain how to use published information to support claims.
Hello Irate Veteran I’m rated 50% pes planus but, a recent MRI revealed I have osteoarthritis in my first through fifth metatarsals could I get rated for that also? Thanks…
Arthritis can be service connected, but it cannot be awarded a rating in addition to your 50% foot rating. As noted in the video, anything can happen at the board; however, in this case it is unlikely separate ratings would be awarded. I’d still get the arthritis service connected, just in case your feet get worse in the future.
Great info from Both great job but i did notice a few times when you ask a ? Or wanting confirmation you didnt give atty the floor to respond just keep on Mowing thur. But I think it could have been unintentionally. Again great video lots of info. thank you Both
The video is edited, so irrelevant discourse was removed. Everything that matters is in the video.
Eugene, I’m a Vietnam Vet. My feet were wet almost my whole tour. My toes and toenails became fungal infected. They still are today. The podiatrist at the VA says it will never go away. Is there any disability rating for fungal infections? I’ve suffered with it for about 54 years. Thanks.
As with any issue that started in service, continued after service, and is currently diagnosed, it can be service connected. Possible ratings are determined per the General Rating Formula For The Skin on the rating schedule. Don’t forget to check out my book: www.amazon.com/dp/B0CPTNRMD8.
I have a severe left foot fracture. Plus bone spur removal. Bilateral flat feet 20% Having right knee issues since bone spur surgery. Orthopedics said suedo gout secondary patella chondromalacia. I ask both orthopedics and podiatry what is causing constant knee pain. They told me to talk to the other specialists for that. Back and forth isnt working. Should i seek a private doctor to get a reason or nexus per se?
Typically, treatment providers treat. They do not consider cause. Knee issues secondary to foot problems is a commonly won claim. It’s generally accepted that feet can lead to knee problems, so a private nexus may not be needed.
VA treated this condition with raised heel inserts for my shoe ! Did no good, pain still is daily .
Keep in mind, realistically, you need a diagnosis for the problem. A claim without a diagnosed medical condition will very likely lose. Pain in itself does not make for a good claim.
I broke my foot in service. I have a 0% service connection for the foot. It causes pain to this day. X-ray and MRI found nothing. Do i have any chance at a rating increase?
Broken bones that have properly healed only get a 0% rating even if painful; however, if there is pain and a functional problem such as a limp, then it can be rated over 0%. Don’t forget to check out my book: www.amazon.com/dp/B0CPTNRMD8.
I have bilatteral plantar fasciitis rated at 10% Bi latteraal small nerve peripheral neurapathy that isnt rated yet. the neuropathy is worse . will be interesting what will happen
Yes, it will be interesting. Let me know how it turns out.
Is arthritis in the ankle considered part of the foot?
Ankles are completely separate claims and are not part of a foot claim. I am SC for both feet and both ankles. I single bilateral rating at 50% for my feet and 20% for the left ankle and 20% for the right ankle. If you want to help build a better VA, don’t forget to check out my book: www.amazon.com/dp/B0CPTNRMD8.
What about amputations on the feet.
Lower extremity amputations are rated under codes 5160-5173. I have never seen the VA get an amputation rating wrong as it’s a pretty straight forward rating. There is an amputation or there is not, very easy to rate.
GREAT REVIEWS I was granted 50%SC but since I have total Disability, but Since I'm A viet nam vet VA is refusing to increase due to plantiis facitis and toe pains...??I'm lost
If you are already paid at the 100% rate, more ratings do not increase payments unless special monthly compensation (SMC) is warranted. If you have questions or need any specific advice, just fill out the contact form at vamadness.com. Don’t forget to check out my book: www.amazon.com/dp/B0CPTNRMD8.
Alberto : 60% on top of 100% for a separate disability or combination of dx to = 60% by VA math gets you SMC-S. Another $450 to 500 a month. Douglas~
Is there a claim for getting toe nail fungus while in service from wearing boots
Generally, service connecting a disability requires three elements; (1) a current diagnosis, (2) an event in service, and (3) a medical nexus (link) between the event in service and the current diagnosis. The nexus is typically provided at the C&P exam if the other elements are present. As long as the issue started in service, symptoms continued after service, and you have a current diagnosis, then of course file the claim.
@@VAMADNESS 10/4
CAN PAIN IN FEET CAUSE PAIN PAIN IN THE LEG.
Yes especially when in pain.
Foot problems can cause other problems in the lower extremity including pain. If your foot issues have caused other disabilities to develop, those disabilities can be service connected. Keep in mind, realistically, a diagnosis is required for any claimed issues.