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All rating criteria

How the VA Rates Lumbar Spine

The plain-English version of the 38 CFR Part 4, DC 5235-5243 criteria a VA rater evaluates Lumbar Spine against, with the 2026 monthly rate at each level. A reference to what the regulation describes — never a prediction of any rating.

Diagnostic codes 5235, 5236, 5237, 5238, 5239, 5240, 5241, 5242, 5243

The rating levels

Criteria paraphrased from 38 CFR Part 4, DC 5235-5243 for readability. Monthly amounts are the 2026 rate (effective December 1, 2025) for a veteran with no dependents if this were the only rated condition — dependents add more, and multiple conditions combine under the VA’s own math.

10%

$180.42/month

Forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine greater than 60 degrees but not greater than 85 degrees; or, combined range of motion of the thoracolumbar spine 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; or, vertebral body fracture with loss of 50 percent or more of height.

Examples from this level’s criteria

  • Pain with bending/lifting
  • Muscle spasm or tenderness on exam
  • Forward flexion between 60–85 degrees
  • Stiffness after prolonged sitting or standing

20%

$356.66/month

Forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine greater than 30 degrees but not greater than 60 degrees; or, the combined range of motion of the thoracolumbar spine not greater than 120 degrees; or, muscle spasm or guarding severe enough to result in an abnormal gait or abnormal spinal contour such as scoliosis, reversed lordosis, or abnormal kyphosis.

Examples from this level’s criteria

  • Forward flexion 30–60 degrees
  • Visible muscle guarding or antalgic gait
  • Abnormal spinal contour (scoliosis, kyphosis)
  • Pain that limits bending to shoelace level

40%

$795.84/month

Forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine 30 degrees or less; or, favorable ankylosis of the entire thoracolumbar spine.

Examples from this level’s criteria

  • Severe restriction — cannot bend past 30 degrees
  • Ankylosis in a favorable (slight forward) position
  • Unable to perform basic tasks (tying shoes, picking up objects)
  • Requires assistive device for ambulation

50%

$1,132.90/month

Unfavorable ankylosis of the entire thoracolumbar spine — spine is fused in a position other than slight flexion.

Examples from this level’s criteria

  • Spine fused in extension, lateral deviation, or rotated position
  • Cannot flex the spine at all
  • Significant compensatory posture changes

100%

$3,938.58/month

Unfavorable ankylosis of the entire spine — involving both cervical and thoracolumbar segments.

Examples from this level’s criteria

  • Entire spine fused in an unfavorable position
  • Complete loss of spinal mobility
  • Profound functional limitation

The listed symptoms are examples that appear in each level’s criteria — not a checklist that earns a percentage. Raters apply the criteria as a whole.

The evidence that matters most

Goniometer measurements of flexion from treating provider

C&P exam tips for Lumbar Spine

  • Request a range of motion exam using a goniometer — this is required under VA regulations.
  • Perform the range-of-motion test at its worst — after your back has warmed up or after bending several times (the 'repetition effect' is ratable).
  • Describe the pain during movement, not just at rest.
  • Mention flare-ups: 'On bad days my flexion is less than 20 degrees and I cannot get out of bed.'
  • Ask for 'additional limitation due to pain, fatigue, weakness, or flare-up' to be documented — the examiner is required to document this.
  • Describe radiculopathy symptoms in your legs separately — these are ratable as additional conditions (radiculopathy or sciatica).

Common mistakes on Lumbar Spine claims

  • Performing the range-of-motion test at your best instead of documenting functional limitation.
  • Not reporting flare-up frequency and severity.
  • Failing to claim associated radiculopathy as a separate condition.
  • Not documenting incapacitating episodes separately — these can push the rating higher.
  • Saying 'it's about a 5 out of 10 pain' — describe the worst days specifically.

Frequently asked questions

What diagnostic code does the VA use for Lumbar Spine?

Lumbar Spine is rated under 38 CFR Part 4, DC 5235-5243 — diagnostic codes 5235, 5236, 5237, 5238, 5239, 5240, 5241, 5242, 5243.

What is the highest schedular VA rating for Lumbar Spine?

100% is the highest level in the rating schedule for Lumbar Spine. The criteria at that level describe: Unfavorable ankylosis of the entire spine — involving both cervical and thoracolumbar segments.

How much does a 100% VA rating for Lumbar Spine pay in 2026?

$3,938.58 per month, tax-free, for a veteran with no dependents (rates effective December 1, 2025) — more with a spouse, children, or dependent parents. If you have other rated conditions, the VA combines ratings using its own math rather than adding them.

Related tools & guides

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Educational information about the rating schedule — not legal or medical advice, never a prediction or promise of any rating, and not affiliated with the VA.