Diagnostic Code 5242
Musculoskeletal - Spine
Max Rating: 100%
VA Disability Rating Criteria for Degenerative Arthritis of the Spine
The Department of Veterans Affairs rates Degenerative Arthritis of the Spine under 38 CFR Book C (Diagnostic Code 5242). Compensation ratings are determined by the severity of functional impairment and objective medical evidence.
Title 38 CFR Statutory Rating Schedule
Source: eCFR Part 4| Rating | Required Diagnostic Symptoms & Severity |
|---|---|
| 100% | Unfavorable ankylosis of entire spine. |
| 50% | Unfavorable ankylosis of entire thoracolumbar spine. |
| 40% | Unfavorable ankylosis of entire cervical spine; OR forward flexion ≤30° (thoracolumbar); OR favorable ankylosis of entire thoracolumbar spine. |
| 30% | Forward flexion ≤15° (cervical); OR favorable ankylosis of the entire cervical spine. |
| 20% | Forward flexion >30° but ≤60° (thoracolumbar) or >15° but ≤30° (cervical); OR combined ROM ≤120° (thoracolumbar) or ≤170° (cervical); OR muscle spasm severe enough to produce abnormal gait or spinal contour. |
| 10% | Forward flexion >60° but ≤85° (thoracolumbar) or >30° but ≤40° (cervical); OR combined ROM >120° but ≤235° (thoracolumbar) or >170° but ≤335° (cervical); OR muscle spasm not resulting in abnormal gait. |
VeteransVSO Public Decision Engine
Launch Free Decision Engine →
Ready to build your Degenerative Arthritis of the Spine claim or increase?
Run the free combined rating calculator, match secondary symptoms, and prepare your C&P exam evidence.