The rating ladder
What the VA looks for at each percentage.
How to describe it (and win the rating)
- Report ROM on a WORST/flare day
- Note pain onset degree (where pain starts limiting motion)
- Count doctor-ordered bed-rest days/year (incapacitating episodes)
- Radiating pain/numbness → separate radiculopathy claim
Evidence that helps
- imaging (MRI/X-ray)
- PT/chiropractic notes
- record of incapacitating episodes
Next steps
Related conditions & secondary claims
Conditions medically linked to Lumbar spine — each can be worth a separate or secondary claim:
- Radiculopathy — Lumbar spine disease commonly causes radiculopathy of the sciatic nerve down one or both legs; each leg is separately ratable.
- PTSD — Chronic musculoskeletal pain is an established cause of secondary depressive disorder.
- Knee — Antalgic gait from back pain overloads the knees and hips, causing secondary joint conditions.
Common questions
What is the VA disability rating for lumbar (thoracolumbar) spine?
The VA rates lumbar (thoracolumbar) spine under 38 CFR diagnostic code 5237. The rating tiers are: 10% — forward flexion 60–85°, or combined ROM 120–235°; 20% — forward flexion 30–60°, or combined ROM ≤120°, or muscle spasm altering gait; 40% — forward flexion 30° or less; 50% — unfavorable ankylosis of the entire thoracolumbar spine. Your exact percentage depends on the severity documented in your records and C&P exam.
How much VA disability compensation is lumbar (thoracolumbar) spine?
Monthly pay depends on your assigned rating percentage and your dependents, not the condition alone. Lumbar (thoracolumbar) spine can be rated from 10% to 50%. Use the free US Vet Help disability calculator for your exact 2026 monthly amount.
What evidence do I need for a lumbar (thoracolumbar) spine VA claim?
Evidence that helps includes: imaging (MRI/X-ray); PT/chiropractic notes; record of incapacitating episodes.
How do I get the correct rating for lumbar (thoracolumbar) spine?
To be rated accurately: Report ROM on a WORST/flare day; Note pain onset degree (where pain starts limiting motion); Count doctor-ordered bed-rest days/year (incapacitating episodes); Radiating pain/numbness → separate radiculopathy claim.
Wondering if you're rated too low for this? We read your VA file and check.
Find my claim opportunities →Educational summary of the 38 CFR Part 4 criteria — simplified, not the full regulation, and not medical or legal advice. The VA rates on your specific evidence. Describe your worst days honestly; never exaggerate. Confirm criteria in 38 CFR Part 4. US Vet Help is not affiliated with the VA and does not file claims.