Secondary Conditions Recommender
Discover secondary conditions you may be missing. Enter your service-connected disability to find common secondary conditions with medical nexus information.
Find Secondary Conditions
Search for your primary service-connected disability to see related secondary conditions
Understanding Secondary Conditions
What Are Secondary Conditions?
A secondary condition is any physical or psychological problem caused by—or measurably aggravated by—a service-connected disability. Example: a service-connected back injury changes your gait, the altered mechanics hammer your knees, and now the knee condition is secondary to the back. Document the chain, not just the pain.
How to File for Secondary Conditions
Start a claim (VA Form 21-526EZ). Mark it clearly as a secondary to an existing service-connected condition.
Name the primary condition and the secondary condition in plain English (and add diagnostic codes if you know them).
Show the chain of causation: symptoms timeline, meds side effects, gait changes, sleep studies, imaging, clinician notes.
If a nexus letter is truly needed, ask the clinician to use the standard language: “at least as likely as not” (≥50%) and cite the medical rationale.
Export your VetClaims.ai evidence summary to include: timelines, MOS hazards, deployment locations (presumptives), and key records so the rater can follow the logic fast.
Medical Nexus Strength
Well-established medical connection with substantial evidence
Recognized medical relationship requiring supporting documentation
Potential connection that may require expert medical opinion
Important: This tool provides educational information only. Always consult with a qualified VA-accredited representative or healthcare provider for personalized advice about your specific situation.
Get Expert Help Building Your Claim
Book time with a VetClaims.ai strategist for hands-on help building your claim package so you can move forward with confidence.
- Fast-track filing with expert prep
- Personalized evidence roadmap tailored to your claim
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