Understanding VA Disability Rating For Fibromyalgia
As a veteran-owned law firm, we have unique insight into the disability claims process. We know our fellow service members are overwhelmed when they apply for VA disability fibromyalgia benefits. And, we also know what the VA looks for in claims and what their processes are like.
The fact is, the VA’s regulations and procedures constantly change. It’s difficult for the average person to keep up. That’s why we help veterans with service-related fibromyalgia obtain the disability benefits they deserve, even if their initial claim is denied.
Fibromyalgia is a chronic musculoskeletal condition. Veterans with fibromyalgia experience:
- Unexplained pain throughout the body. This pain is widespread and felt on both sides, above and below the waist.
- Fatigue, even after sleeping for a long time.
- “Fibro fog”: an inability to concentrate, focus, or pay attention.
Fibromyalgia can make it difficult to work, take care of yourself and your family, and live life to the fullest. Unfortunately, some VA disability claims for fibromyalgia are denied.
Contact Us Today
We Will Fight For Your Benefits
We guarantee 100% privacy. Your information will not be shared.
Was Your Veteran Disability Claim For Fibromyalgia Met With A Denial?
VA disability claim denials are common. You may receive a denial if:
- You completed the wrong form. With so many VA forms, errors happen.
- You missed a filing deadline. Life happens; we can track all important dates for you.
- You haven’t “proven” that your fibromyalgia is service-related. The VA looks for specific information to establish service connection.
A denial isn’t the end of the story. Veterans have the right to appeal their VA disability claims for fibromyalgia.
We can help you with the appeal process, even if we didn’t handle your initial claim. Our lawyers ensure your application is complete and well-documented.
How Does The VA Rate Fibromyalgia?
The VA assigns a disability rating based on the severity of your fibromyalgia. Ratings are expressed as percentages. To determine your rating, the VA looks at:
- Your medical records
- Results of your VA claim exam, if required
- Information from other sources, such as a “buddy statement” (Statement in Support of Claim)
The VA disability ratings for fibromyalgia are covered in the Code of Federal Regulations, Title 38, § 4.71a diagnostic code 5025. Fibromyalgia may receive a rating of 40%, 20%, or 10%:
- Constant or nearly constant symptoms that do not respond to treatment: 40%
- Episodic symptoms present more than one-third of the time, worsened by triggers: 20%
- Symptoms requiring continuous medication: 10%
When veterans have multiple service-related illnesses or injuries, the VA calculates a combined rating, which cannot exceed 100%.
Common Causes Of Service-Related Fibromyalgia
Veterans with a family history may be more likely to develop this physical condition. Service-related fibromyalgia may be brought on by:
- Physical trauma
- Psychological stress
- Emotional events
- Infection
People with fibromyalgia may also have tension headaches, anxiety, depression, or TMJ disorders.
More women than men are diagnosed with fibromyalgia. Some experts believe many men do not seek treatment or are misdiagnosed.
How Is Service Connection Established For Fibromyalgia?
Service connection is established in one of two ways:
- A new illness or injury incurred during active military service
- An existing illness or injury aggravated during active military service
You must prove, with medical records and documentation, when symptoms first occurred.
Gulf War Veterans And Fibromyalgia
There are special service connection guidelines for Gulf War Veterans. According to the VA, “Fibromyalgia is a presumptive illness for Gulf War Veterans.” Veterans who served in the Southwest Asia theater may not need to prove a connection between symptoms and military service. Diagnosis is challenging due to the lack of a specific test.
To qualify as a presumptive illness, a Gulf War veteran’s fibromyalgia must:
- Be at least 10% disabling
- Have first occurred anytime during active duty up until December 31, 2026
No matter when you served, our VA disability attorneys can help with your denied fibromyalgia claim.
Frequently Asked Questions
Depending on severity, fibromyalgia usually results in a rating from 10% to 40%.
Pain from fibromyalgia can sometimes prevent walking, usually when it leads to rheumatic conditions causing joint pain, muscle weakness, and stiffness in the legs.
The hardest part is proving that fibromyalgia is service-connected. Obtaining an official diagnosis is also challenging due to the lack of a specific test.
Contact A VA Disability Lawyer Today
A Veteran Disability Lawyer assists throughout the confusing and frustrating claim appeals process if you have received a denial for service-connected fibromyalgia. Generally, one denial is required before an attorney can assist, but once involved, they can quickly determine what is needed to prove entitlement.
If your VA disability claim for fibromyalgia has been denied, be sure to contact the VA Accredited Attorneys at VetLaw to secure the entitlement you deserve.
