Cognitive & Physical Disability Claims for Veterans

Veterans often face long-term cognitive and physical disabilities as a result of their military service. These conditions can arise from combat injuries, exposure to hazardous environments, training accidents, or service-related illnesses. When a disability affects daily functioning, employment, and quality of life, veterans may qualify for VA disability compensation.


However, the process of applying for VA benefits can be complex, requiring extensive medical documentation and proof of a service connection. Martin and Lerda is committed to helping veterans obtain the compensation and medical care they deserve by providing skilled legal advocacy for those suffering from cognitive and physical disabilities caused by military service.

A soldier is sitting in a wheelchair in a living room.

Cognitive Disabilities and VA Disability Benefits

Cognitive impairments can significantly impact a veteran’s ability to function in daily life. These disabilities may result from traumatic brain injuries (TBI), chemical exposure, neurological disorders, or psychological trauma. Veterans with cognitive disabilities may experience:

  • Memory loss and difficulty concentrating
  • Confusion and cognitive fatigue
  • Impaired problem-solving and decision-making skills
  • Speech or language difficulties
  • Emotional regulation issues, including severe mood swings


Common cognitive conditions that may qualify for VA disability benefits include:

  • Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
  • Neurotoxic exposure-related cognitive decline
  • Dementia and early-onset Alzheimer’s linked to service injuries
  • Severe migraines or neurological disorders caused by head trauma



Veterans suffering from cognitive disabilities must provide medical evaluations and service records to demonstrate how their condition is linked to their military service. Martin and Lerda works with veterans to gather the necessary documentation and medical opinions to build a strong claim.

Physical Disabilities and VA Disability Benefits

Many veterans suffer from long-term physical disabilities due to combat injuries, musculoskeletal conditions, or degenerative diseases caused by military service. These disabilities can affect mobility, strength, coordination, and pain levels, making it difficult to maintain employment or engage in daily activities.

Common service-connected physical disabilities include:

  • Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
  • Amputation and limb loss
  • Degenerative disc disease and chronic back pain
  • Muscular dystrophy and other neuromuscular disorders
  • Severe joint injuries, arthritis, and orthopedic conditions
  • Chronic pain disorders, such as fibromyalgia
  • Cardiovascular disease caused by service-related stress or injuries
A man is carrying a little girl on his shoulders while she holds an american flag.

These conditions may result in limited mobility, reliance on assistive devices, or ongoing medical treatment. Veterans must provide medical records, diagnostic imaging, and physician statements to establish a service connection for their disability. Martin and Lerda ensures that all required evidence is properly presented to maximize compensation for veterans with physical disabilities.

Establishing Service Connection for Cognitive & Physical Disabilities

For a veteran to qualify for VA disability benefits, they must demonstrate that their cognitive or physical disability is directly related to their military service. This requires:

  1. A current medical diagnosis from a licensed physician.
  2. Evidence of an in-service event, injury, or exposure that contributed to the disability.
  3. A medical nexus linking the condition to military service.


The VA may grant benefits on a direct or presumptive basis, depending on the specific condition and military service records. Some conditions, such as TBIs sustained in combat, may have strong documentation in service records, while other disabilities require additional evidence to establish a connection.


Veterans can strengthen their claims by providing:

  • Military service records documenting the injury or exposure
  • Medical evaluations and treatment history
  • Statements from fellow service members who witnessed the event
  • Expert medical opinions connecting the disability to service



Many veterans struggle to gather the right documentation to support their claims. Martin and Lerda provides legal assistance to ensure that all necessary records and medical reports are submitted correctly to the VA.

How Martin and Lerda Helps Veterans with Disability Claims

Filing a VA disability claim for cognitive or physical impairments requires attention to detail and legal expertise. Martin and Lerda offers:

  • Assistance in gathering military service records and medical evidence
  • Collaboration with healthcare professionals to provide medical opinions supporting the claim
  • Guidance on VA disability ratings and how to ensure fair compensation
  • Help with filing Fully Developed Claims (FDC) for expedited processing
  • Ongoing legal representation to ensure veterans receive the benefits they deserve

Veterans suffering from cognitive or physical disabilities should not have to fight the VA alone. With experienced legal support, they can maximize their compensation and secure the care they need.


Additional Resources for Veterans with Cognitive & Physical Disabilities

📌  VA Disability Benefits for Physical Injuries
📌  VA Resources for Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
📌  VA Guide to Musculoskeletal Disabilities

Take the First Step in Your VA Disability Claim

Veterans who suffer from cognitive or physical disabilities due to military service deserve fair compensation for their sacrifices and long-term health challenges. Martin and Lerda is committed to providing expert legal guidance to help veterans secure the benefits they need and deserve.


Call (412) 271-6800 today to discuss your disability claim and take the first step toward securing your VA benefits.