How to Win a VA Claim for Chronic Pain Without a Clear Diagnosis 

Posted by Berry Law on March 5, 2025 in Veterans

Chronic pain is one of the most common and debilitating conditions affecting Veterans, yet it can be incredibly difficult to obtain VA disability benefits for pain that does not have a clear medical diagnosis. The VA generally requires a diagnosed condition for service connection, leaving many Veterans struggling to prove their case. However, recent legal precedents have made it possible for Veterans to qualify for disability compensation for chronic pain even without a formal diagnosis. Understanding how to build a strong claim is essential for success. At Berry Law, we help Veterans navigate these challenges and fight for the benefits they have earned. 

Can You Get VA Disability for Chronic Pain Without a Diagnosis? 

Yes. The U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims ruled in Saunders v. Wilkie (2018) that chronic pain itself can be considered a disability if it causes functional impairment that affects a Veteran’s ability to work or perform daily activities. 

To qualify for benefits, a Veteran must prove: 

• The pain is persistent and significantly impacts daily life. 

• There is evidence linking the pain to military service. 

• The pain causes functional impairment, meaning it limits work, movement, or routine tasks. 

How to Prove Your Chronic Pain Claim 

Since chronic pain without a diagnosis is harder to prove, strong supporting evidence is essential. Veterans should provide: 

• Service Records – Documenting injuries or events that could have caused ongoing pain. 

• Medical Evidence – VA or private doctor reports detailing pain symptoms and impact. 

• Lay Statements – Testimonies from family, friends, or fellow service members confirming how pain affects daily life. 

• Compensation & Pension (C&P) Exam Reports – An evaluation from a VA examiner discussing the pain’s severity and limitations. 

• Work Impact Evidence – Documents showing missed workdays, performance issues, or job loss due to chronic pain. 

How to Strengthen Your VA Claim for Chronic Pain 

Veterans can improve their claim’s chances by: 

• Keeping a Pain Journal – Recording daily pain levels, limitations, and triggers. 

• Seeking Continuous Medical Treatment – Regular doctor visits establish a medical history of pain. 

• Requesting a Strong Medical Nexus Opinion – A doctor should clearly link chronic pain to service-related events. 

• Demonstrating Functional Impairment – Emphasizing how pain affects employment and daily living. 

Even without a clear diagnosis, proving functional limitations caused by pain can lead to a successful VA disability claim. 

What If Your VA Claim for Chronic Pain Is Denied? 

If the VA denies your claim, don’t give up—many Veterans win their cases on appeal. You can: 

• File a Supplemental Claim – Submit new medical evidence or lay statements. 

• Request a Higher-Level Review – Have a senior VA adjudicator reevaluate the case. 

• Appeal to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals (BVA) – Present additional evidence and request a hearing. 

Winning a VA claim for chronic pain without a diagnosis is challenging, but it is possible with the right evidence and legal strategy. If you need help filing or appealing a claim, Berry Law is ready to fight for you. 

Contact us today for a free case evaluation. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

1. Can I receive VA disability for chronic pain without a diagnosis?

Yes. Saunders v. Wilkie (2018) established that chronic pain can qualify as a disability if it causes functional impairment. 

2. How do I prove my chronic pain is service-connected?

Providing service records, medical evidence, lay statements, and C&P exam results strengthens your claim. 

3. What is a medical nexus opinion, and why is it important?

A nexus opinion is a doctor’s statement linking your chronic pain to military service. It is critical for approval. 

4. What if my VA claim for chronic pain is denied?

You can appeal the decision through a Supplemental Claim, Higher-Level Review, or BVA appeal. 

5. How can a VA disability lawyer help with my chronic pain claim?

A VA disability attorney can gather evidence, challenge VA errors, and fight for the highest possible rating.