Claiming Major Depressive Disorder Secondary to Tennis Elbow/Lateral Epicondylitis
How to file a VA disability claim for Major Depressive Disorder as a secondary condition to your service-connected Tennis Elbow/Lateral Epicondylitis. This guide covers the medical nexus, evidence requirements, and how a secondary claim can increase your combined rating.
This is not legal or medical advice. Always consult with a VSO or accredited claims agent.
Medical Nexus: Tennis Elbow/Lateral Epicondylitis → Major Depressive Disorder
NEXUS STRENGTH
weak
COMMONLY GRANTED
Varies
CLAIM TYPE
Secondary
What is a Secondary VA Disability Claim?
A secondary condition is a disability that was caused or aggravated by a service-connected condition. Under 38 CFR § 3.310, the VA will grant service connection for a secondary condition if you can show a medical relationship (nexus) between your already service-connected condition and the new condition.
In this case, you would claim that your service-connected Tennis Elbow/Lateral Epicondylitis caused or worsened your Major Depressive Disorder.
Secondary claims are one of the most effective ways to increase your combined VA disability rating and monthly compensation.
How Tennis Elbow/Lateral Epicondylitis Leads to Major Depressive Disorder
Primary Condition: Tennis Elbow/Lateral Epicondylitis
Common symptoms:
Secondary Condition: Major Depressive Disorder
Common symptoms:
Evidence Needed for This Secondary Claim
1. Nexus Letter (Most Important)
Get a medical opinion letter from a doctor stating that your Major Depressive Disorderis "at least as likely as not" caused by or aggravated by your service-connected Tennis Elbow/Lateral Epicondylitis. This is the most critical piece of evidence for a secondary claim.
2. Current Diagnosis
Medical records showing a current diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder. VA treatment records, private medical records, or a current exam will work.
3. Service-Connected Primary Condition
You must already have Tennis Elbow/Lateral Epicondylitis rated as service-connected. If not, file for that first or file both claims simultaneously.
4. Personal Statement
A detailed statement (VA Form 21-4138) describing how your Tennis Elbow/Lateral Epicondylitis symptoms led to or worsened your Major Depressive Disorder. Include specific examples of how both conditions affect your daily life.
How This Affects Your Compensation
If granted, Major Depressive Disorder as a secondary condition will increase your combined VA disability rating using VA math. Here are 2026 monthly rates by rating:
30% Rating
$552.47
/month
50% Rating
$1,132.90
/month
70% Rating
$1,808.45
/month
Other Conditions Secondary to Tennis Elbow/Lateral Epicondylitis
File Your Major Depressive Disorder Secondary Claim
Use our free Claims Builder to organize your Major Depressive Disorder evidence, link it to your Tennis Elbow/Lateral Epicondylitis claim, and prepare for your C&P exam.