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If VA determines that your service-connected arthritis at least as likely as not caused your depression, then secondary service connection will be awarded. VA Disability Rating for Arthritis in Your Hands or Trigger Finger Remember that rheumatoid arthritis starts in smaller joints first. These cookies collect information about how you use our website. For example, if someone is given a 30% disability rate, it . The VA rating specialist will categorize instability of the joint in three ways: slight (10%), moderate (20%), or severe (30%). When you go for your C&P exam, its important to inform the doctor of your flareups and how they affect you. NDZkYTE0YjBkYzI0OTMyZWZhYjliY2U2MWRiYjgyMWMzN2Q0MThmY2ViMDFl Over 100 conditions fall under the umbrella of arthritis, including arthritis in the hands, osteoarthritis, and degenerative joint diseases. Under Diagnostic Code 5002, the VA rates your rheumatoid arthritis case based on the following: 100%: The veteran's rheumatoid arthritis results in incapacitation. 60%: The veteran has severe incapacitating episodes four or more times per year. We use this information for confidential communication only and never for marketing purposes. COVID-19 WILL NOT STOP US FROM WINNING FOR OUR VETERANS. Some of these things require X-Ray proof, while other times the pain and swelling are symptoms enough to get the diagnosis. Already working with us? If multiple areas of the body are affected, you may be able to show that your rheumatoid arthritis condition is incapacitating, warranting a 100% disability rating. You kept me up to date with how my case was proceeding. This rating will determine the amount of benefits that the Veteran receives. YzJkYjI0MDE1ZDUxYmI2NzRlOTA5NTNkNjcyMGYwYjRiMjMyNmZkZGY3MjYz This means that these symptoms can be rated under their own specific diagnostic code for each major or minor group of joints. you'll want to join this case. COVID-19 UPDATE: WE ARE OPEN FOR PHONE AND EMAIL CONSULTATIONS - 24/7. Rheumatoid arthritis, another common condition among veterans, is an autoimmune disease. OGZjNDc4OTVkNjc4OWNjNTMwM2ZkMGJjNWI2NDllZGJhODUxMzRiZjNmZjg2 In addition to the loss of function and pain in the hands, RA symptoms include low red blood cell count, skin lumps, fever, and fatigue. This shouldnt stop you from pursuing your claim, though. This website adheres to the W3Cs AA Accessibility guidelines. By continuing to use our website, you agree to these updates. There are two main types of arthritis: degenerative arthritis and, When you have scoliosis, it means that your spine has an abnormal curvature. The VA will consider the severity of your arthritis, its effects on your daily life, and any medical treatments you have been prescribed. They are not intended as a guarantee that we will obtain the same or similar results in every case we undertake. For example, two veterans may have the same arthritic condition, but the veteran who has more flareups each year will receive a higher rating. For instance, which pages you go to most. We also assist the surviving spouses of deceased service members to obtain the benefits to which theyre entitled. A Disability Benefits Questionnaire is a form created by VA so that the veteran may address important aspects of their condition, such as symptoms, severity, possible causes, and relation to other disabilities. Va Disability Rating For Arthritis. YjVkOWY0YWQ4MWI0ZjMyNzk2ODU2N2U4NmMxZTAzYzk3MzdmNjNhNzBiMjY0 ZTg1MDZhNjgwZjA5MmQ4ZDZlYzY4MDQ3YmFmOTQwNzMzYmMyODcwZDBlMjUy VA Disability Rating for Rheumatoid Arthritis, Total Disability / Individual Unemployability for Arthritis and Joint Pain Conditions (TDIU), VA Disability Rating for Arthritis in Hands, VA Disability Ratings for Knee Joint Pain and Arthritis. Woods and Woods, LLC, Veterans Disability Lawyer, Veterans Disability Benefits Attorneys Helping Veterans Nationwide, Published on September 12, 2019 by Neil Woods Last Updated on October 10, 2022. NTU3NzA5YTNkNDEwOGVmY2Y5Mjc4NGI3YzA2MzcxODNiZWViZWU0NGVlZjNh In addition, the VA rates dominant hand fingers at a higher rate than the non-dominant hand. Your body might be telling you something. If a joint injury occurs, however, your body can pump as much as three times the normal amount of fluid into your joint. RheumatoidArthritis is ratedunder Diagnostic Code 5002. OTM5ZWUwOWQ3MTgxZWZlMmY5OWYwMzU0MTIyYzI0MTNhY2FiYTRhNmEyZDBi 203, San Jose, CA 95134 If you took Xeljanz for a year and suffered side effects, Theme by, and is the nations leading cause of disability. Some chemicals and traumatic events also have been known to trigger the body to begin attacking the synovial fluid. If you are diagnosed with this disease and are incapacitated as a result, you are generally provided with 100 percent disability, regardless of how many joints are affected. accident on route 10 chester, va today; qualtrics investor relations; nfl football stadium capacity; 22nd virginia infantry; rhinestone money purse. A service-connected disability is a medical condition that was caused or made worse by your military service. The number of joints affected is irrelevant. Ratings on both hands will trigger the bilateral factor bonus of about 10% additional compensation. -----BEGIN REPORT----- For example, both hands, knees, or ankles may be affected, as opposed to only one hand, knee, or ankle. Some supplements can also help reduce stiffness, such as omega-3 fish oil. If a VA doctor misdiagnoses you for one of those disabilities, talk to one of our lawyers right away to get the back-pay you deserve for the wrong VA rating. The VA rating for carpal tunnel is generally 10%, but they may give it a higher rating based on the severity of the condition and the hand that it inflicts. (e) Combinations of finger amputations at various levels, or finger amputations with ankylosis or limitation of motion of the fingers will be rated on the basis of the grade of disability; i.e., amputation, unfavorable ankylosis, most representative of the levels or combinations. Total Disability Rating for Joint Replacement Surgery, Increasing Your VA Rating by Combining Multiple Disabilities, Get Help With Increasing Your Joint Pain and Arthritis Disability Rating, rheumatoid arthritis condition is incapacitating, you may be eligible for Total Disability Based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU), What You Need to Know about TDIU VA Benefits, https://www.va.gov/disability/eligibility/special-claims/unemployability/, the bilateral factor can bump you up to a rating of 80%, How The VA Disability Bilateral Factor Affects Veterans Ratings, temporary increase of a 100% disability rating, I am so glad I was referred to Woods and Woods, A request for an increased VA disability rating using, A claim for a secondary service-related disability. Rheumatoid arthritis may also cause joint deformity which is non-reversible. That doesnt seem like a big deal, but if you notice the soreness and stiffness lasting hours or days longer than usual, pay attention to that pain. An attorney is a valuable partner in all phases of a disability claim. For instance, knee flexion is the measure of how far you can bend your knee. You might have swollen finger joints or your elbows may be slightly deformed from swelling. Total Disability Individual Unemployability, Veterans Affairs (VA) Disability Claims Process, 38 CFR 3.09(a) of the Code of Military Regulations. One just should show that the reported symptoms of joint problems continued after they returned to civilian life. Additionally, he should explain why your condition falls into that particular category. ZjcwYzA0NGMyOTc0MjAyNGU3YmVlY2NkOGZlMGFhZWJlNjZjIn0= Since swollen achy ankles can be caused by a number of things, you might not look for the RA diagnosis right away. A VA disability rating for knee tendonitis or joint pain may also be based on your range of motion during your VA disability knee exam. If you are within your first year of being out of the service, though, do it! But does your rating last forever? Each one is rated differently based on the effect it has on your daily life. This is like pouring antifreeze into your valve cover on accident! This will contain any documentation that has previously been submitted to VA, as well as the veterans medical and service records. The exam will usually be performed by a VA physician or a VA contracted physician. NzJiNjAxMjRkMTg5MzJhOTc2NGRmMDVhNGM0YjdhYjBlM2E5N2I5NDljNzAz The VA is required to give you the best of everyting, but over 30% of VA decisions end up being wrong. Ten percent of people diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis experience full spontaneous remission within 6 months of the onset of their symptoms. Confidential or time-sensitive information should not be sent through this form. The information these cookies collect will not personally identify you, and they cannot track your browsing activity on other websites. The combined ratings are then calculated by rounding up to the nearest ten. The symptoms develop and aggravate other body systems which then slowly lead to death. To do this, VA may call the veteran or send a letter. The percentage of Americans with arthritis is expected to. MWZiYTMyODdjYmI2OWUwNTJlOTM0YmI2NjIyMTQ5ZjBjZjk1NTYxZDc4NDJk I'm rated at 10% for my left wrist, due to an injury that has developed into arthritis. Amanda Dejesus, Veterans' Advocate Updated: November 15, 2021. Los Angeles, CA: 10880 Wilshire Blvd., Ste 1101, Los Angeles, CA 90025 VA Ratings for Arthritis Degenerative arthritis can receive the following disability compensation ratings from the VA*: 10%- If two or more joint groups (major or minor) have arthritis but are never incapacitating 20%- If two or more joint groups (major or minor) have arthritis and are occasionally incapacitating OWM4OTdjNWM2NDIwOTU3YzgzNWRhOGY3MTljN2E0NDFiOTdiMzY5MjE1ZjZm Are you a Veteran who suffers from arthritis? These treatments may include medications, physical therapy, and surgery. By using our website, you agree to the use of certain cookies. Since there are so many causes that are still misunderstood, drawing a service connection is more about making the case that your symptoms started because of your military service. , contact the Cameron Firm, PC at 800-861-7262 or fill out the contact box on our website. MGE3ZGU2NDJkZWQ1Y2U2YTU0MjM3YTYzOTBjM2E2M2M5MzFjOWM1YjcxOWM1 If symptoms are not treated, specifically inflammation, rheumatoid arthritis may cause damage to the bones and cartilage. The rating schedule for the VA is as follows: It is important to note that these ratings cannot be used in addition to other ratings for limited motion to accrue more VA disability benefits. ZThkNzM4NzM3YTY1ZjM2YjdiMGQ4NDEyNTQwOTI3ZTM1YzBkYzEzZGNmODUy Rheumatoid arthritis is most commonly seen affecting the joints of the hands, feet, wrists, elbows, knees, and ankles. These cookies dont collect information that identifies you. A 100 percent VA disability rating can be given if the medical condition results in the veteran becoming bedridden or completely incapacitated. These cookies may be set through our website by our advertising partners. In order to be rated under the different diagnostic codes, a limited range of motion must be confirmed with symptoms of swelling, painful motion with evidence, and muscle spasms. You received a 70% disability rating from the VA. #34938Washington, D.C. 20090-6503, Phone: (888) 878-9350 yet assertive representation for our clients. the immune system does not work properly and attacks the lining of the joints, causing inflammation and pain. Rheumatoid arthritis, or more commonly known as RA, is an autoimmune disease in which the bodys immune system mistakenly attacks the joints. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. Perhaps more importantly, VA disability benefits give these veterans free access to the latest medical treatments. It's important that your doctor use these three terms to explain your limitations due to arthritis. Attorney Gang is frequently in the news with commentary on issues affecting veterans. For a free consultation with an. VA Disability Ratings for Arthritis Degenerative Arthritis (Diagnostic Code 5003) Degenerative arthritis is rated based on the limitation of range of motion of the affected joint (s). Do you need to dispute the rating that was given to you? To diagnose, the doctor may perform certain tests and physical examinations, as well as examine the persons medical history. Since arthritis worsens over time, you should consider having your condition reviewed every few years. They do not store directly personal information, but are based on uniquely identifying your browser and internet device. is found in about 80 percent of people who have rheumatoid arthritis. An attorney is a valuable partner in all phases of a disability claim. Disclaimer: This information is not legal advice. Sometimes people have improved movement and fewer flare-ups which results in losing some of their VA benefits. A Veteran may receive a rating of 100% if their rheumatoid arthritis is completely incapacitating. If only one joint or joint group is affected and there is evidence of painful motion, you will receive a 10% . The accredited VA disability lawyers and advocates at Chisholm Chisholm & Kilpatrick LTD have decades of experience successfully representing veterans before the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims, and the Federal Circuit. Did you take Xeljanz for at least one year? VA disability for arthritis in the knee is generally determined through range of motion testing. Although there are many types of arthritis, the two most common types are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis can also affect other body systems such as therespiratoryand cardiovascular systems. This fluid acts like oil between the hinges of your joints. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. You are also more likely to get trigger finger while you are still in the service, rather than years later. OWQxZiIsInNpZ25hdHVyZSI6IjljMTRkZTQ1MjQ5NWIyMTRhODMwNTE2MGY5 Please complete this form to send us your message. You may also be able to receive benefits if you are unable to work because of your arthritis. It doesnt cost you anything to have us look over your current rating and see if you are ready to apply for an increase. The overuse or injury does not need to be traumatic. Here are some tips on your C&P exam from one of our VA disability lawyers. What Veterans Need to Know About Spinal Stenosis Disability Rating, Allergic Rhinitis VA Rating: How to Obtain Service Connection. To receive a 20% rating, two or more major joints or two or more groups of minor joints must have occasional incapacitating episodes. Have you been diagnosed with cancer, blood clots, or a heart problem? Generated by Wordfence at Sun, 5 Mar 2023 0:15:18 GMT.Your computer's time: document.write(new Date().toUTCString());. Even if the veteran is not fully bedridden or incapacitated, other lower ratings can be given for individuals suffering from the limitation of motion, osteoarthritis, inflammatory pain, musculoskeletal pains, and more. Both degenerative and rheumatoid arthritis are rated under the musculoskeletal system conditions. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers a variety of benefits for Veterans with arthritis. The percentage of Americans with arthritis is expected to increase to one in four or around 25% by 2040. In this case, the bodys immune system allows foreign cells to thrive and accidentally targets beneficial cells that would typically fight off pleural diseases. How Can I Increase My VA Disability Rating for Joint Pain and Arthritis? Veterans who have less than a 100% rating for joint pain or osteoarthritis may be able to increase their rating by having each joint considered individually. Rheumatoid arthritis is a form of arthritis that occurs when the immune system does not work properly and attacks the lining of the joints, causing inflammation and pain. A Veteran cannot get a higher disability rating for arthritis in the back if their only symptom is pain. Frequently during the course of service, a serviceman or woman may overuse their joints and/or have been affected by traumatic injuries to their joints. How to Do VA Math with the VA Combined Ratings Table. For a free consultation with an experienced Veterans disability lawyer, contact the Cameron Firm, PC at 800-861-7262 or fill out the contact box on our website. Since the average VA disability claim can take 5 years, work with our lawyers to make sure you get everything listed on your application that you can. Depending on the combined rating of your disabilities, the bilateral factor can bump you up to a rating of 80% or more. Rheumatoid arthritis may also affect a persons organs such as the heart, circulatory system, or lungs. Physicians should be using a goniometer to get exact measurements for your joints range of motion. Since Rheumatoid Arthritis is an autoimmune disorder, it could be caused by trauma or chemicals, not just physical wear and tear. In the most severe cases of gout, a Veteran might get a maximum VA disability rating of 100 percent. VA rates rheumatoid arthritis in the ankle under 38 CFR 4.71 (a), Diagnostic Code 5002. If you have joint pain or osteoarthritis in both hands, the rating for each disability can be combined for an increased rating. If the condition is moderate, it's usually rated up to 20%. NGE5MTE2NmZmOWVkMTRiMzlkOGMxNGUwY2MzNDY0M2Q1MTIyNDAxYTJlMDUw It most commonly affects women, and often develops in middle age. There is currently no cure for osteoarthritis, but treatments are available to help manage the symptoms. If you have experienced at least 2 episodes of incapacitation in a year, you will receive at least 20 . These cookies are essential so that you can move around the website and use its features. Osteoarthritis will show up in your knee or elbow if you wear them out, but RA is different. If it was right hand the most they would give is 40%. MjRmOTBlYjYzMzQ2ZWQ3YWQ3Mjg4ZGI2NDA2MDdiNjIyZjg0YjM3Y2MwMzAz Copyright 2023 Hill & Ponton, P.A.. All Rights Reserved. CCK Recognized for Donations to American Veterans Disabled For Life Memorial, CCK Successfully Argues for a Precedential Decision About Protected Work Environment, A Day in the Life of a Paralegal (Claims Advocate) at CCK. You may be owed compensation. Did you take Xeljanz for at least one year? The assumption of service connection applies if your symptoms of arthritis occur within one year after release from service and meet the VA's 10% disability level. A Veteran may receive a rating of 100% if their rheumatoid arthritis is completely incapacitating. document.getElementById( "ak_js_2" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); document.getElementById( "ak_js_3" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Were you stationed at Camp Lejeune before 1987? There are many causes of arthritis among Veterans, but the most common are injuries and infections. It is very important to make sure VA has the veterans up-to-date contact information so that no C&P exam requests are missed. You may be entitled to compensation and health care Great! Infections that can cause arthritis include Lyme disease, transmitted by ticks, and Reiter's syndrome, a complication of certain sexually transmitted infections. In most cases RA will affect the jointsbilaterally, meaning if you have RA in your right hand, then you will most likely also have it in your left hand. In these cases, veterans do not need to establish service-related connections, even if they do not have medical evidence linking their currently diagnosed arthritis to a particular incident or injury during service. This storage is often necessary for basic functionality of the web site or the storage may be used for the purposes of marketing, analytics, and personalization of the web site such as storing your preferences. Depending on the symptoms and the number of joints affected, Veterans are mostly given a 10% or 20% grade. Instead of getting a VA rating for knee pain, and another rating for ankle pain, it might get more money in your pocket or even a 100% TDIU rating if you get rated for RA instead of individual joint problems. Y2JkMTMyZThhMDNiZmZlMmM0ZmE5YmRkMWRlOWRkZTRiNmZkZmM2OGVhZjM0 Philadelphia, PA: 1 International Plaza, Suite 550, Philadelphia, PA, 19113 To treat rheumatoid arthritis, a person may be prescribed certain medications to reduce symptoms and keep inflammation at the lowest possible level. It adds 10% to the combined disability rating. Sometimes sharing experiences can alleviate some of the psychological stress veterans can face from living with chronic pain. Before the exam, the examiner will review the veterans c-file. Yes, there are several autoimmune disorders that can be service-connected. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); I want to take the time to thank everyone at wood and woods that worked on my case. MTVkYmJjZWYzYjQ3MWYxNjI5NGYwYTQ0YTRjY2I4YmVhY2E4MzBmYmIyODZj You may also have developed a secondary condition that should have been factored into the rating. This can be done by filing: You may also be able to file an appeal within one year of the VAs decision on your claim. Houston, TX: 2925 Richmond Ave, 12th Floor, Houston, TX 77098 Providing sufficient evidence of the pain you experience may be able to help significantly increase your rating. Lawmakers Cry Foul Over VA Accessibility Issues. Use our free VA Disability Calculator to estimate your combined VA rating and monthly entitlement here. If you have been confirmed to have rheumatoid arthritis, they probably wont let you join up. YzUxZmU5OGJjMGMwMGIxNjAyNGY5NzA4M2QxMWUyMjFmNDBlNzBmMTYxMjNm Rheumatoid arthritis is a form of arthritis that creates inflammation that causes the tissue lining the inside of the joints to swell. The VA will also consider whether arthritis is an overall condition in the body such as in the case of rheumatoid arthritis or if it occurs in specific joints. Arthritis in the knees often gives rise to secondary conditions which can increase your rating. Feel free to call us at (866) 232-5777 anytime. MTJiY2E0OWY5YWRhNzBjZWU4MGYxOTJkZTRhMDNmZTAyZjFhN2FhZDVjNWQ2 Heavy backpacks, rough parachute landings, repetitive use of your joints holding your gun, a steering wheel, or other equipment can all contribute to typical wear on your body. Your knuckles on both hands might begin by aching and swelling. As such, rheumatoid arthritis is categorized an autoimmune disease. Usually, in a direct connection claim, the veteran must show an in-service stressor or event, a current arthritis diagnosis, and a nexus between the two. A 2023 Guide to VA Disability Rates & Pay Schedules, Individual Unemployability Rating Calculator, List of Blue Water Navy Ships Exposed to Agent Orange (Interactive Vietnam Map), Social Security Disability Benefits Guide, VA Disability Ratings for Arthritis Conditions, How the VA Rates Rheumatoid Arthritis and Degenerative Arthritis, Pain in major joints, minor joint pain, tenderness, swelling, or stiffness for 6 weeks or more, Morning stiffness lasting 30 minutes or more. Essentially, the difference in conditions between a veteran who receives a 60% rating and a 100% rating depends on whether rheumatoid arthritis causes them to be bedridden and completely incapable of doing chores, household tasks, their daily activities, and working. Military service takes a significant toll on a veterans body. MWZjZTVlNjYyOTMzYjQwMjFmYmM3MjFhZjZlOGQ1ZWQ4OWJmYjVlYmQ1ZDVj You may be able to increase this rating if you also have symptoms of trigger finger.If you have lost the use of your hand and are can no longer work, you may be eligible for TDIU. Arthritis is the most common disability and affects 52.5 million adults in the United States, or one in every five. Partial knee replacements are also eligible to receive 100% disability in the first year following the procedure. NDk5YjkwMzA2YzZlMjQ5ZGI5MzYzMDY0ZWNmMTRhY2JiMzI3N2Y3MDAwOGMy 1. In claims for rheumatoid arthritis, DBQs can be helpful because a private doctor, or a rheumatologist, can provide insight into the veterans condition. As mentioned, overuse during military service or an injury that happened during military service could directly cause arthritis. One of these antibodies is called rheumatoid factor, or RF, and is found in about 80 percent of people who have rheumatoid arthritis. We never charge a fee to help you apply for disability benefits or increase your disability rating you only pay if we are successful and win your case case. VA Disability Rating for Arthritis in Hands Joint pain and arthritis in the hands is a common condition faced by veterans. Knee pain is rated by the VA under various diagnostic codes depending on the condition causing the pain. Many veterans begin to settle back into civilian life when their hand arthritis becomes too painful and debilitating to ignore. There is also no cure for rheumatoid arthritis, but there are treatments that can help reduce symptoms. Seattle, WA: 506 2nd Ave,Suite 1400,Seattle, WA 98104. Joint deformity also may occur which is non-reversible. When filing a claim for service connection for rheumatoid arthritis, the veteran will need to demonstrate a connection between their military service and their rheumatoid arthritis. Trigger finger is a different condition that affects hands but is not considered arthritis. A minimum of 10 percent is given for every joint that has pain with motion. Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the joints, causing inflammation, pain, and swelling. When dealing with averages, its important to not get discouraged. In addition, the exact rating varies based on the severity and and number of fingers amputated. MDNlYWEyZTA0OTYyYmU5MWJhOTFkOWIyNmI0NTM3OTYyZDRiMzNjNmI1MjFl We are here to represent veterans nationwide. Understanding which type of arthritis you have will affect the level of difficulty in establishing a service-related connection. Perhaps more importantly, VA disability benefits give these veterans free access to the latest medical treatments. Most branchs activities will aggravate osteoarthritis as well. In any case, a lower-ranking for Veterans is not uncommon. Woods and Woods, LLC, Veterans Disability Lawyer, Veterans Disability Benefits Attorneys Helping Veterans Nationwide, Published on October 27, 2020 by Neil Woods Last Updated on December 27, 2022. To be rated under this code, there are three specifications: (1) The arthritis must be active; (2) It must be affecting at least two joints; and (3) The veteran must submit a definitive diagnosis. Thanks, Woods and Woods please keep up what you do in helping disabled veterans like myself. There are a few different ways you canrequest an increasein an existing disability rating. Please call for an appointment before visiting: Mail Processing Center: P.O. The following spinal conditions are all rated under the same general rating formula: Lumbosacral or cervical strain (diagnostic code 5237): This would be the diagnostic code assigned to a Veteran experiencing pain in their neck or back. By combining multiple disabilities, you may be able to get your disability rating up to 80% or higher depending on the rating assigned to each. We are here to represent veterans nationwide. We have updated our Privacy Policy. OWQ4NTA5NjFkMGFiZGMzNjkxZGQwMWZkOTA5NzVlYWE3YTQ3Y2M5MDU5NDMx There are many types of arthritis, but the three most common are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. Your rating will depend on where you fall within that scale. This information is made available for educational purposes only and to provide general information and a general understanding of the law. For example, if osteoarthritis is present in one joint, but another has a torn ACL, your disability rating will increase because each joints condition is evaluated separately. Portland, OR: 650 N. E. Holladay Street, Suite 1600, Portland, OR, 97232 Cookies help us deliver the best experience on our website. The veteran may also use a DBQ, or Disability Benefits Questionnaire, to bolster their claim. This information is not a substitute for legal advice. During the exam, the examiner may physically exam the joints which have been affected by rheumatoid arthritis. VA disability benefits fill the financial gap between veterans income and what they need. Cincinnati, OH: 300 E Business Way, Suite 200, Summit Woods Corporate Center, Cincinnati, OH, 45241 Since rheumatic diseases are a type of disease that progresses, you want to get started on your claim as soon as symptoms affect you.