Is Combat-Related PTSD a Physical Injury?
In a word, yes. Combat-Related PTSD, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, is a physical injury. Exposure to combat stress erodes the cerebral cortex. This part of the brain controls logical responses. As a result of that shrinkage, the amygdala expands. This part of the brain controls emotional responses. These changes in the brain can explain symptoms like heightened awareness and flashbacks.
Another way to look at PTSD is to think about a rider and a horse. If the rider (cerebral cortex) is somehow impaired, the rider cannot control the horse (amygdala). So, the amygdala runs where it wants to run.
Even though PTSD is a physical injury, it is not as easily identified or visible as other physical injuries like broken bones. As a result, many Veterans have a hard time obtaining benefits for PTSD. If a VA disability attorney advocates for the victim, the Veteran has a much better chance of obtaining needed financial compensation and medical benefits.
Diagnosing PTSD
No one is sure what triggers combat-related PTSD. It could be a one-time traumatic event, such as witnessing a buddy’s death. Or, it could be the cumulative effect of smaller incidents, such as the fear associated with sentry duty at a remote outpost.
Additionally, everyone’s brain is different. Some people develop PTSD, and some people do not. Almost everyone experiences symptoms like nightmares and depression. If these symptoms persist for more than a few weeks, it could be a sign of PTSD.
However, lingering symptoms might not be enough. Claims adjusters often blame persistent symptoms on non-PTSD events, such as the inability to find a job or readjust to society after a deployment ends.
Medical evidence is extremely valuable. An MRI or other brain scan which shows a smaller-than-normal cerebral cortex goes a long way, especially when coupled with the latest scientific studies in this area.
Treating PTSD
Brain injury physical therapy is nothing like other physical injury therapy. If a Veteran takes a bullet to the thigh, PT is usually a matter of strengthening muscles.
PTSD therapy is different. Once brain cells die, they never regenerate. The therapist must train uninjured areas of the brain to assume the lost functions. This process is a long and winding road. Progress often takes place in fits and starts, so it is easy for both therapists and Veterans to give up.
The Veteran and therapist must both have realistic expectations. Since brain injuries are permanent, there is no way to “cure” PTSD. However, physical therapy can reduce the symptoms to a point where they cause less interference with daily living. Everyday activities, like sitting with one’s back to the door, can be re-established.
Additionally, the Veteran must have a highly-qualified therapist. These individuals are usually only available through VA medical facilities. Even if a Veteran can afford PT on his or her own, which is often not the case, finding a therapist qualified to deal with these issues can be very difficult. That is why obtaining benefits is so critically important.
Benefits Available
Depending on the degree of disability, VA benefits for PTSD could be several thousand dollars a month. These Veterans usually cannot work full-time, or they must take lower-paying jobs. VA benefits help Veterans take care of themselves and their families. The sense of purpose and well-being this fosters can help take the edge off PTSD symptoms.
VA medical benefits are perhaps even more important. While money can help relieve financial strains and facilitate access to care, a few hours a week with a qualified PTSD therapist does much to improve the daily challenges faced by a Veteran struggling with PTSD.
Reach Out to Tenacious Attorneys
PTSD benefits are available to help victims deal with this physical brain injury. For a free consultation with an experienced Veterans disability lawyer, contact Cameron Firm, PC at 800-861-7262 or fill out the contact box to your right. We are here to represent Veterans nationwide.
This article is for educational and marketing purposes only. It does not create an attorney-client relationship.
