Common Conditions Documented & Recognized in Disability Evaluation

Note: VetVantageMD documents current severity of established service-connected conditions. It does not support first-time claims or establish service connection.

Clinicians working with the Veteran frequently encounter medical conditions that reflect a combination of persistent symptoms, functional limitations, and changes over time. The following conditions are commonly documented during clinical evaluations and are also frequently recognized during VA disability administrative review. While this list is not exhaustive, it reflects diagnoses for which updated medical evidence may be clinically relevant.

Musculoskeletal Conditions

• Limitation of flexion, knee
• Limitation of motion, ankle
• Limitation of motion, arm or shoulder
• Chronic low back pain
• Joint instability or degenerative changes
• Functional impairment due to pain, weakness, or reduced endurance

Neurological & Sensory Conditions

• Paralysis or compression of the sciatic nerve
• Tinnitus
• Hearing loss
• Migraines
• Neuropathy affecting functional ability

Mental Health Conditions

Mental health conditions are frequently referenced in disability evaluations and may present with both psychiatric and somatic symptoms. Updated documentation may help clarify functional impact and symptom progression.

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Anxiety disorders
• Depressive disorders
• Adjustment disorders
• Somatic symptom disorder

Secondary or Functional Impacts

Some conditions may worsen or contribute to functional limitations associated with an established service-connected disability. Updated documentation may be clinically relevant even when the secondary condition itself is not being evaluated for service connection.

• Sleep disturbance associated with chronic pain or PTSD
• Gastrointestinal symptoms associated with stress or medications
• Headaches associated with musculoskeletal or neurological conditions

Clinical Documentation Focus

When documenting these conditions, providers should emphasize:

• Objective findings and diagnostic observations
• Functional limitations during daily activities
• Symptom progression relative to prior clinical status
• Distinguishing subjective reports from objective measures

Scope and Limitations

VetVantageMD is not appropriate for first-time VA disability claims. The platform is used to document current clinical status for the Veteran who already has confirmed service-connected disabilities and requires updated medical evidence for administrative review. It is not used to establish service connection or support initial claim development.