Lower back VA disability:
ratings, evidence and next steps.
Understand the rating criteria, organize supporting records, and find official help with your claim.
GrantsHubUSA · Independent editorial guide
- Diagnostic code
- DC 5237
- Rating framework
- 38 CFR § 4.71a
- Key consideration
- Range of motion, including flare-ups
Overview
How VA evaluates lower back conditions.
Lower back conditions are rated under the General Rating Formula for Diseases and Injuries of the Spine. The rating depends mainly on forward bending measured in degrees, combined range of motion, muscle spasm or guarding, and ankylosis (fixation of the spine).
Nerve problems linked to the back, such as radiculopathy, are rated separately from the spine itself.
A diagnosis alone does not establish a particular rating.
Lower back rating criteria, at a glance.
A condensed guide to the spine formula for the thoracolumbar (mid and lower) spine.
| Rating | Criteria in brief |
|---|---|
| 10% | Forward flexion over 60 but not over 85 degrees; or combined range of motion over 120 but not over 235 degrees; or muscle spasm, guarding or localized tenderness without an abnormal gait or spinal contour; or a vertebral fracture with loss of 50% or more of height. |
| 20% | Forward flexion over 30 but not over 60 degrees; or combined range of motion not over 120 degrees; or muscle spasm or guarding severe enough to cause an abnormal gait or abnormal spinal contour. |
| 40% | Forward flexion of 30 degrees or less, or favorable ankylosis of the entire thoracolumbar spine. |
| 50% | Unfavorable ankylosis of the entire thoracolumbar spine. |
| 100% | Unfavorable ankylosis of the entire spine. |
Normal thoracolumbar forward flexion is 0 to 90 degrees, and the normal combined range of motion is 240 degrees. Measurements are rounded to the nearest 5 degrees.
Source: 38 CFR § 4.71a, DC 5237
These summaries are not the full legal criteria or a self-assessment tool.VA decides the rating from the evidence. Read the full regulation text at the source link.
Build a clear evidence record.
- Back examAn exam with range of motion measurements, including flare-ups.
- Service treatment recordsAny in-service back injury or complaint.
- ImagingX-rays or an MRI, if you have them.
- Flare-up recordHow often flare-ups happen, how long they last and what triggers them.
- Personal statementWhat you can no longer do, such as lifting, sitting or standing for long periods.
Preparing for a C&P exam
- 1Follow the instructions in your appointment notice, and call the exam provider if you need to reschedule.
- 2Describe symptoms honestly, including how often they happen, how long they last, and changes over time.
- 3Explain the effects on work, relationships and everyday activities, including your worst days.
Common pitfalls to avoid.
- No flare-up detailsTell the examiner how flare-ups limit your movement.
- Missed appointmentsContact the exam provider before the date if you cannot attend.
- Overlooking nerve symptomsReport leg pain, numbness or tingling so they can be evaluated.
Questions about lower back claims.
No. VA first decides whether the condition is service-connected, then rates it based on the evidence of how it affects you. A diagnosis alone does not set a rating.
VA compares the evidence, including the exam report and your records, with the criteria in 38 CFR § 4.71a. When the evidence falls between two levels, VA assigns the higher one if the disability more nearly matches it (38 CFR § 4.7).
Read your appointment notice, bring a list of medications and treatment, and be ready to describe how often symptoms happen, how long they last, and how they affect work, relationships and daily activities. If you cannot attend, contact the exam provider before the appointment.
VA's directory lists accredited attorneys, claims agents and Veterans Service Organization representatives. Help from a Veterans Service Organization is free.
Check the original guidance.
This guide explains published information. It does not replace medical care or advice from an accredited claims professional.
Make your next step a clear one.
Explore more conditions, or use the VA pay calculator to plan ahead.