Active inflammatory arthritis affecting 2 or more joints not due to trauma or gout. Includes rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, reactive arthritis (Reiter's), ankylosing spondylitis variants. Autoimmune process causing joint inflammation, pain, swelling, stiffness, and eventual joint destruction. Systemic manifestations possible.
Incapacitating active disease with near-continuous severe exacerbations affecting numerous joints, bedridden or requiring wheelchair
Active disease with persistent severe symptoms affecting multiple joints, causing marked functional limitation in activities of daily living
Active disease with frequent exacerbations affecting multiple joints, causing moderate functional impairment
Active disease affecting 2 or more major joints or groups of minor joints with occasional exacerbations
Medical Evidence
Current diagnosis from a qualified healthcare provider, medical records documenting symptoms and treatment history
Service Connection
Evidence linking your condition to military service (service treatment records, incident reports, or nexus letter)
Personal Statement
Your detailed account of how systemic arthritis (active multi-joint) affects your daily life and when symptoms began
Lay Evidence
Buddy letters from fellow service members or family who can corroborate your symptoms
During your Compensation & Pension exam for systemic arthritis (active multi-joint), examiners will assess your symptoms against the rating criteria above.
Be specific: Describe your worst day, not your average day
Document everything: Bring copies of all medical records and evidence
Functional impact: Explain how symptoms affect work, sleep, and daily activities
VA Claims Assistant
Hey! I'm Scout, your VA claims assistant. I can help with questions about conditions, ratings, secondary connections, C&P exams, and more. What can I help you with?
Powered by ClaimDuty AI · Not legal or medical advice