Non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation (nVNS) has received “Breakthrough Device” recognition from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The foundation concept is that the commercially available stimulation device could help reduce the physiological response to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) stress triggers. The results during tests indicate the device is safe, practical, and a novel treatment […]
Those seeking VA disability compensation for post-traumatic stress disorder (“PTSD”) may need to submit a “stressor statement.” Stressor statements refer to a written description of the claimant’s experiences that led to the development of their PTSD. While the VA provides a “statement in support of claim” form where the claimant can write their statements, an […]
A U.S. veteran can be discharged with a less-than-honorable status due to substance abuse and other disorders, which could affect their access to VA benefits. Mr. Mark Stevenson, a U.S. Army vet, is currently challenging the state of affairs with the help of Yale Law students. The goal of the lawsuit is to have Mr. […]
Cannabis has long been in use by veterans to relieve the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). But does cannabis treat PTSD or assist in dealing with the symptoms? There is evidence that it reduces nightmares and re-living traumatic situations for combat vets. While useful, the side effects are deemed harmful with long-term use, and […]
Under 38 CFR § 3.304(f), the government provides the elements that a service member must meet to qualify for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) compensation. Under the statute, service connection is available if the claimant presents medical evidence diagnosing the condition per CFR § 4.125(a). Moreover, they must provide medical evidence establishing a link between current […]
Israeli researchers have discovered that hyperbaric oxygen therapy helps alleviate PTSD symptoms in combat veterans. The supervised clinical trial revealed that the 35 Israeli Defense Force veterans enrolled demonstrated significant improvement in PTSD symptoms. Researchers discovered that exposure to severe emotional trauma could cause organic damage to the brain, thus causing a physical wound in […]
Cannabis is a common drug now being used in the medical community. It is known to offer anti-inflammatory properties. On the other hand, psychedelics, currently being studied for further medical applications, are being employed to treat mental health conditions and severe drug-resistant depression. The most often used psychedelic substances used in treatment today include: Ketamine […]
Those seeking VA disability compensation for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may need to write and submit a compelling “stressor statement” with their application for benefits. While not every case requires a stressor statement, it is a useful evidentiary tool to maximize available benefits. However, some cases do not require them, and the VA should notify […]
Medical Issues / Disability, Mental Health, PTSD, Veterans Law
VA recently sent an email to many veterans notifying them of possible changes to the disability rating schedules for mental health, audiology, and respiratory disabilities. Our office has received many questions from clients about these changes and what it means for their ratings, let’s take a look. Proposed Changes to Disability Rating Schedules VA is […]
Medical Issues / Disability, Mental Health, PTSD
When you think of a disabled veteran, what do you see? Most people think of physical ailments like loss of limbs, burns, and other injuries. Though, few understand the impact of cognitive disorders and mental health disabilities on a veteran’s quality of life. In this article, we will evaluate the true cost of military service […]