Updated March 2026

Lumbar Spine VA Disability Rating

Q: How does the VA rate lumbar spine conditions?

The VA rates lumbar spine conditions under the General Rating Formula for Diseases and Injuries of the Spine. Ratings are based on range of motion measurements: 10% for forward flexion greater than 60 degrees but not greater than 85 degrees, 20% for forward flexion greater than 30 degrees but not greater than 60 degrees, 40% for forward flexion 30 degrees or less or favorable ankylosis, and 50% for unfavorable ankylosis of the entire thoracolumbar spine.

Q: What is the difference between DC 5237 and DC 5243?

DC 5237 covers lumbosacral strain, while DC 5243 covers intervertebral disc syndrome (IVDS). Both can be rated under the General Rating Formula for the Spine. However, DC 5243 (IVDS) can alternatively be rated based on incapacitating episodes, which may yield a higher rating if you have documented bed rest prescribed by a physician.

Q: Can I get a separate rating for radiculopathy with my back condition?

Yes. Radiculopathy (nerve pain radiating into the legs) is rated separately from your lumbar spine condition under the peripheral nerve diagnostic codes. Each affected extremity receives its own rating (commonly 10-40%), which combines with your back rating. This is one of the most important secondary claims for back conditions.

Diagnostic Codes 5237 (Lumbosacral Strain) / 5243 (Intervertebral Disc Syndrome) — Rated based on range of motion or incapacitating episodes at 10%, 20%, 40%, or 50%.

Rating Criteria — General Rating Formula for the Spine

Rating	Criteria	2026 Monthly Pay
10%	Forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine greater than 60 degrees but not greater than 85 degrees; or, combined range of motion greater than 120 degrees but not greater than 235 degrees; or, muscle spasm, guarding, or localized tenderness not resulting in abnormal gait or spinal contour.	$180.42
20%	Forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine greater than 30 degrees but not greater than 60 degrees; or, combined range of motion not greater than 120 degrees; or, muscle spasm or guarding severe enough to result in an abnormal gait or abnormal spinal contour.	$356.66
40%	Forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine 30 degrees or less; or, favorable ankylosis of the entire thoracolumbar spine.	$795.84
50%	Unfavorable ankylosis of the entire thoracolumbar spine.	$1,132.90

Pay rates shown are for a single veteran with no dependents. View full 2026 rate tables with dependents.

Note: IVDS (DC 5243) can alternatively be rated based on incapacitating episodes requiring physician-prescribed bed rest, which may result in a higher rating.

Common Secondary Conditions

Veterans with lumbar spine conditions often file for these related conditions to increase their combined rating:

Radiculopathy (DC 8520/8620) — Nerve pain radiating into one or both legs. Rated separately for each affected extremity at 10–80%. This is the most important secondary claim for back conditions.
Hip Conditions — Altered gait from a lumbar spine condition can cause or aggravate hip problems. Rated under limitation of motion codes.
Knee Conditions (DC 5260/5261) — Compensatory changes in walking mechanics can lead to knee problems secondary to back disabilities.
Erectile Dysfunction — Nerve damage from lumbar spine conditions can affect sexual function. Rated at 0% with Special Monthly Compensation (SMC-K).

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the VA rate lumbar spine conditions?

The VA rates lumbar spine conditions under the General Rating Formula for Diseases and Injuries of the Spine. Ratings are primarily based on range of motion measurements taken during a C&P exam:

10%: Forward flexion 60–85 degrees
20%: Forward flexion 30–60 degrees
40%: Forward flexion 30 degrees or less, or favorable ankylosis
50%: Unfavorable ankylosis of entire thoracolumbar spine

The VA must also consider painful motion, flare-ups, and functional loss under the DeLuca factors.

What is the difference between DC 5237 and DC 5243?

DC 5237 covers lumbosacral strain, while DC 5243 covers intervertebral disc syndrome (IVDS). Both can be rated under the General Rating Formula for the Spine. However, DC 5243 (IVDS) can alternatively be rated based on incapacitating episodes, which may yield a higher rating if you have documented bed rest prescribed by a physician.

Can I get a separate rating for radiculopathy with my back condition?

Yes. Radiculopathy (nerve pain radiating into the legs) is rated separately from your lumbar spine condition under the peripheral nerve diagnostic codes. Each affected extremity receives its own rating (commonly 10–40%), which combines with your back rating. This is one of the most important secondary claims for back conditions.

Calculate your combined VA disability rating with lumbar spine and other conditions.

VA Disability Rating Calculator

In-Depth Guide

For detailed information on C&P exams, DeLuca factors, and filing strategies for back claims, read our full guide:

Lumbar Spine VA Rating 2026 — Full Guide

Lumbar Spine VA Disability Rating

Rating Criteria — General Rating Formula for the Spine

Common Secondary Conditions

Frequently Asked Questions

In-Depth Guide

Related Conditions

Data Sources