I recently had an MRI on my lower back by the VA in June 2010 and it revealed the following: Early degenerative disc disease throughout the lumbar spine with disc bulges throughout, especially at L3-L4, L4-L5. The degenerative changes appear more prominately at L5-S1. Mild bilateral foraminal stenosis at L5-S1. Early facet disease at L4-5 and L5-S1. Early anterior wedging of T12. I am currently being treated by VA pain clinic and have received 4 pain bloc injections. Taking medication ranging from Vicodin to muscle relaxers. Doctors have recommended fusion surgery. Is this more than one condition? What would be an appropriate rating/

It would depend on the overall severity of the condition, the actual diagnosis and treatment is paramount. I suggest you contact your local veterans service officer. In order to make a proper evaluation I would need to review the medical notes.

Update from previous post. Originally filed claim in 2007 for back problems. VA denied claim, no previous treatment in records. Reopened claim in July 2010 and resubmitted citing treatment at VAMC which included physical therapy, diagnosis of osteoarthritis in lower back, 2 steriod injections in L3, L4 and L5, procedure to deaden nerve endings at facet L4 and L5, and 4 pain bloc injections. I do not sleep well due to pain and cannot sit or stand for more than 30 minutes at a time. Would like to know what probable rating would result from this? Previous post show simular ratings between 10 and 20%.

You need treatment records from the military to establish a Nexus between the problem and military service. VA records more than 1 year after service does not usually create a Nexus.

While receiving treated at VAMC for left knee, which is currently rated at 30%, orthopedic surgeon was concerned back pain was causing issue with left knee. Not the case. The injury to my knee occured on active duty 27 years ago. VA doctors have mentioned and noted that due to the injury (knee twisted one way torso twisted opposite direction)and multiple surgeries(5)all have contributed to the current condition of my back. Hoping nexus has been established with information mentioned.

quote:

Originally posted by rodmond:
Update from previous post. Originally filed claim in 2007 for back problems. VA denied claim, no previous treatment in records. Reopened claim in July 2010 and resubmitted citing treatment at VAMC which included physical therapy, diagnosis of osteoarthritis in lower back, 2 steriod injections in L3, L4 and L5, procedure to deaden nerve endings at facet L4 and L5, and 4 pain bloc injections. I do not sleep well due to pain and cannot sit or stand for more than 30 minutes at a time. Would like to know what probable rating would result from this? Previous post show simular ratings between 10 and 20%.

<<MOD Note - Email removed >>

This message has been edited. Last edited by: Dave_M,

Hello Rodmond, I would like to speak with you related to your back condition. As I have maany of the same issues. We can compare notes and see what is working to better our respective positions with the VA and the appeal process. I am currently at 40% but I know the VA is rating my spinal condition to low related to the associated issues. Here is my email, go ahead and drop me a note and I will respond. I am in Illinois and the Chicago is my regional center.

<<MOD Note - email removed >>
Look forward to speaking with you.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: Dave_M,

Hate to jump on a post with my own issues, but I will be separating from the military after 8 years, and I have a similar back condition that I have been dealing with for about three years now. I have chiropractor appointments 2-3 times a week, and I just started pain management for injections about a week ago. I still have pain. I have to wake up three hours before work just to get my bones moving and tie my shoes. Injury occurred while deployed. I have been so nervous about being picked up by commercial health insurance after I separate. From what I read here, will the VA offer some assistance in my medical bills?

Make sure that when you are outprocessing you list this on a claim with the VA. Also, as you get older, if the condition worsens file for increases in your rating.

As a service connected condition, the VA will treat you for the problem.