Proven strategies to link your current pain to your past service, even if you've been out for years.
Most veterans have a low rating for a single issue (e.g., 10% for a knee) because the VA focuses on exact Range of Motion (ROM) loss. If examiners rush the goniometer measurements, your rating stalls.
How We Win: We coordinate private exams that meticulously document ROM loss, flare-ups, and functional loss so the VA has to rate you at the correct percentage. Use the VA flare-up evidence checklist to organize repeated-use limits before the exam.
Nerve pain that shoots down your arms or legs is often missed, but each affected limb can unlock additional ratings. We document sensory loss, weakness, and nerve root involvement so radiculopathy is added to your claim. Read the radiculopathy rating guide if you want the separate-limb math and evidence checklist.
Back, knee, foot, or ankle problems can change how you walk and load the hip. The file still needs diagnosis, ROM measurements, flare-up proof, and a clear secondary bridge. Use the VA hip pain evidence checklist to organize that path before filing.
Ankle claims often need dorsiflexion, plantar flexion, flare-up details, brace history, recurrent sprain proof, and a direct or secondary bridge from knee, foot, hip, back, or altered-gait mechanics. Use the VA ankle rating evidence checklist to organize that path before filing.
An MRI image alone doesn't translate to a rating. A fully completed DBQ connects your imaging to functional loss, pain on motion, and instability. We ensure your imaging, DBQ, and Nexus Letter all match.
"I only had my back rated at 20% for years. The evaluation documented how my back caused hip and knee issues. Overall rating went to 80%."
— Kevin L., Marine Corps Veteran
Increases based on Range of Motion (ROM).
Shooting pain/numbness in arms or legs.
Secondary mechanics, ROM limits, and flare-up evidence.
Dorsiflexion, plantar flexion, braces, falls, and gait mechanics.
Often aggravated by service boots/marching.