Mechanical Low Back Pain
Mechanical Low Back Pain is a VA-ratable condition under diagnostic code 5237 in the Spine category. Maximum rating: 100%.
Spine Range of Motion
Source: 38 CFR § 4.71 - Measurement of ankylosis and joint motion
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 100% | Unfavorable ankylosis of entire spine |
| 50% | Unfavorable ankylosis of entire thoracolumbar spine |
| 40% | THORACOLUMBAR: Forward flexion ≤30° OR favorable ankylosis. CERVICAL: Unfavorable ankylosis |
| 30% | CERVICAL ONLY: Forward flexion ≤15° OR favorable ankylosis |
| 20% | THORACOLUMBAR: Forward flexion >30° but ≤60° OR combined ROM ≤120°. CERVICAL: Forward flexion >15° but ≤30° |
| 10% | Forward flexion limited OR combined ROM limited OR muscle spasm/guarding/tenderness without abnormal gait/contour |
Important Notes
Very common condition. Secondary conditions: radiculopathy (8520), IVDS (5243), depression (9434). Per DeLuca v. Brown, must consider pain on repetitive motion. Per § 4.59, painful motion = minimum compensable rating.
Filing Tips
Pro Tip: The VA won't connect the dots for you. That's your job. Build the paper trail before you file.
Gather medical evidence showing a current diagnosis of this condition.
Document in-service events, injuries, or exposures that caused or aggravated this condition.
Consider a nexus letter from a medical professional linking your condition to service.
Review the rating criteria for DC 5237 to understand what symptoms warrant higher ratings.