Spine
Rated Under Another Condition
This condition is typically rated under Lumbosacral Strain (DC 5237). The rating criteria below reflects that diagnostic code.
Spine is a VA-ratable condition . Maximum rating: 50%.
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
Rated under Lumbosacral Strain (DC 5237)
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.