WingmanOpen the free toolsWingmanOpen the free toolsIf the VA already service-connected your chronic pain (also called chronic pain, chronic musculoskeletal pain, joint pain, pain syndrome), it can cause or worsen other conditions that are ratable on their own. These "secondary" claims are where many veterans leave money on the table. Below is what a service-connected chronic pain commonly leads to, why, and what evidence each one takes.
A secondary claim only works if the primary condition (chronic pain) is already service-connected, and you have a nexus — a doctor's opinion that it is "at least as likely as not" the cause. More on nexus letters →
Depression and anxiety secondary to chronic pain is one of the most commonly recognized and most-missed secondary claims. Persistent pain that limits work and activities is a well-established cause of mood disorders.
What you'd need: A mental health diagnosis and a nexus opinion linking the depression/anxiety to the chronic service-connected pain.
Long-term NSAIDs, muscle relaxants, and opioids used for chronic pain irritate the stomach and cause reflux.
What you'd need: A GERD diagnosis, documentation of the pain medications, and a nexus opinion linking the reflux to that treatment.
Chronic pain frequently disrupts sleep; documented sleep impairment can support a secondary claim, often folded into a mental health rating.
What you'd need: Documented sleep problems tied to the pain and a supporting opinion.
Opioids and other chronic-pain medications commonly cause ED. Service connection unlocks SMC-K.
What you'd need: An ED diagnosis, the medication list, and a nexus opinion tying it to the pain treatment.