To file for Orthopedic Conditions, we will need you to complete a statement describing how you believe this condition was caused by your time in the service and how it affects you to this day. How do you believe your Orthopedic Conditions were caused by your time in service? Please use the prompts below to best determine how you believe your Orthopedic Conditions are service-connected, then fill out the appropriate statement form. If you believe your condition was caused by multiple factors below, please select the factor that outweighs the rest, and then be sure to mention all applicable service-connected reasoning within your statement.

Direct & Chronicity - Military service often involves physically demanding tasks, such as marching, running, carrying heavy equipment, and repetitive movements. Over time, these activities can cause repetitive stress injuries like stress fractures, tendinitis, and bursitis. This is called Chronicity. Military personnel may be exposed to high-risk activities or combat situations that can result in traumatic injuries. These injuries can include fractures, dislocations, ligament tears, spinal cord injuries, and joint damage. This is called Direct. If you believe your ****Orthopedic Conditions were caused by a direct injury or chronicity, please click this link to complete your statement. ****https://www.cognitoforms.com/OperationStandDownRI/directchronicity

****Secondary to other Service-Connected conditions - Certain systemic diseases can have secondary effects on the musculoskeletal system. For instance, rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disorder, can lead to joint inflammation, deformities, and damage. Another example is if you have hurt your back and this has caused pain in other areas of the body like your hips or knees. If you believe your Orthopedic Condition is caused by another already service-connected condition, please click this link to complete your statement.

https://www.cognitoforms.com/OperationStandDownRI/secondaryserviceconnection