u/HookandBook1

Looking for some honest opinions from people who’ve been through the VA claims process.
I got out of the Marines in 1996. I was an 0311 infantryman, Close Combat Instructor, Scout Swimmer, Small Boat Coxswain, Assault Climber, and played on the Marine Corps rugby team.
Shortly after I got out, I went to the VA for neck and back pain and was prescribed pain meds and muscle relaxers. In 1999 I went back, had X-rays, and received chiropractic treatment. After that I mostly just dealt with the pain and only sought treatment when I felt I had to.
Fast forward to now, and my MRIs show degenerative disc disease in both my cervical and lumbar spine. My cervical MRI also shows spinal stenosis and foraminal narrowing. I have chronic neck pain, limited range of motion, pain into my shoulders and traps, numbness and tingling down my arms into my hands, and my fingers go numb when I work overhead. My low back hurts daily, my hips ache, and my legs sometimes feel like they want to give out.
I haven’t filed a claim for my neck or back yet. Based on this history, do you think I have a legitimate shot at service connection, or is the gap in treatment going to be my biggest obstacle? I’d appreciate hearing from anyone who’s had a similar claim.
Thanks

I’m starting to reach out to the Studs I served with back in the day.
How common is this?
Semper Fi

70 ptsd 50 sinusitis 30 rhinitis apnea granted from ptsd

70 ptsd 50 sinusitis 30 rhinitis Apnea granted for ptsd!!!