When can a pre-existing injury be considered aggravated by military service?

A pre-existing injury can be considered aggravated by military service when there is clear and unmistakable evidence demonstrating that the injury has been worsened due to the conditions or activities associated with military service. This means that the evidence must be strong enough to show a direct link between the service and the increase in severity of the injury. Such evidence may include medical records, professional opinions, or documentation of increased symptoms that have occurred due to physical training, combat exposure, or other service-related factors.

This approach is consistent with the standard of evidence used in evaluating claims for service connection to ensure fairness and accuracy in deciding whether a veteran's condition has been impacted by their military experience. Understanding this criterion is essential for veterans to seek the benefits they are entitled to when a pre-existing condition has been adversely affected by their service.