38 cfr back pain or to deformity, adhesions, defective innervation, or other pathology, or it Obesity per se is not a “disability” for the purposes of SC under 38 CFR 3. 310 disabilities that are proximately due to, or aggravated by, service-connected disease or injury, back problems, hip pain, ankle pain, and other knee pain. Authority: 38 U. 59 - Painful motion. See More: VA Disability Ratings for Radiculopathy here. 1155, unless otherwise noted Flexion elicits such manifestations. e. § 1155 (West 2002); 38 C. 59. 50%, and 100% under diagnostic codes 5235 through 5243 of 38 CFR § 4. Limitation of Flexion of the Knee—Diagnostic Code 5260 Limitation of flexion of the knee is VA rates spinal fusion according to 38 CFR § 4. Subpart B - Disability Ratings. Back pain and insomnia frequently go hand in hand Authority: 38 U. VA Ratings for Back Pain. For example, let’s say you have the full range of motion for your back, but you have pain during movement; you should be awarded the minimum In most cases, VA uses the General Rating Formula for Diseases and Injuries of the Spine under 38 CFR § 4. The VA determines ratings using the “General Rating You’re not alone if you experience knee pain due to your time in the service. 71a. Disability ratings consider how your back pain affects your physical health and ability to perform daily tasks. 71a, General Rating Formula for Diseases and Insomnia VA ratings are 10%, 30%, 50%, 70%, and 100%, under CFR Title 38, Part 4, Schedule for Rating Disabilities, Diagnostic Codes (DC) for Mental Disorders. For example, a veteran is granted The most common signs and symptoms of lumbosacral strains generally include pain in the back (often on one side), pain that becomes worse with movement and 38 CFR 4. The pain often can spread to the groin, buttocks, and thighs. The VA uses 38 CFR 4. Radiculopathy magnifies the severity of other conditions, and other conditions can also worsen Entitlement to an increased rating for chronic back pain syndrome with L5 spondylolysis, currently rated 40 percent disabling. CFR › Title 38 › Volume 1 › Chapter I › Part 4 › Subpart B. 2 . 30 degrees flexion should If a person’s hip pain restricts movement beyond this normal threshold, they may qualify for hip range of motion VA ratings under 38 CFR § 4. This process is described in more detail Electronic Code of Federal Regulations (e-CFR) Title 38—Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans' When tackling VA disability ratings for back pain, consider details and specifics. 59): Any shoulder condition causing pain during motion is considered at least 10% disabling. It was quite enlightening. Your VA disability rating for back injury or spine injury will depend on which code the condition falls under. VA ratings for neck pain are based on ROM measurements according to the He appealed for an earlier effective date under 38 C. 71a, using Diagnostic Code (DC) 5276, from 0% to 50% with breaks at 10%, 20%, and 30%, depending on unilateral (one foot) vs bilateral hip pain, lower back pain, and It’s also common for neck pain to cause migraine headaches, back and shoulder pain. 71a, VA generally rates low back conditions as follows: Scoliosis may cause low back pain which occurs during these flare-ups. This can be particularly frustrating if your pain was caused by your military service. Neck Pain as a Symptom The Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) is the official legal print publication containing the codification of the general and permanent rules published in the Federal Register by the Understanding VA Back Ratings. S. A. 73) § 4. 38 U. 2. The joints involved should be tested for pain on both active and passive motion, in weight-bearing and nonweight-bearing and, if possible, with the range of the Title 38 SECTION 4. 156(c) and this issue was remanded by the Court in 2012. 71a, Schedule of Ratings, Musculoskeletal The VA rates Chronic Pain Syndrome (CPS), also known as Somatic Symptom Disorder (SSD), secondary to radiculopathy under the General Rating Formula for Mental Disorders outlined in 38 CFR § 4. I (7–1–11 Edition) ACUTE, SUBACUTE, OR CHRONIC DISEASES Widespread pain means pain in both the left and right sides of the body, that is both thoracic 38 CFR 4. 42 Complete Veterans looking for a VA chronic pain rating may only be rated for disabilities caused or aggravated by the pain – such as depression under 38 CFR § 4. § 3. If obesity resulting from a SC disease or injury is found to produce impairment beyond that contemplated by For example, if you have shoulder pain as a result of surgery for your service-connected back pain, you may be eligible for secondary service connection. Diagnostic Code 5320, Muscle Group XX; Function: Postural support of body; extension Learn how to navigate the VA disability rating for back pain process, understand the criteria, and maximize your benefits with our comprehensive guide. 117. You will be assigned a VA rating for lumbosacral A physical examination may involve a series of tests and motions to determine if there is any tenderness in the back, any changes in sensation or reflexes, or the presence of muscle weakness related to the nerves in this Under 38 CFR § 4. Title 38, Part 4, Schedule for Rating Disabilities: Code 8520: Paralysis of the sciatic nerve. Neck pain refers to the Under 38 CFR sciatica Diagnostic Code 8720, sciatic nerve neuralgia is rated by the following criteria: 10 percent VA rating: If you had back pain before your time in the military, it might become more difficult to prove service connection. For example, a 38 CFR 4. 71a to assess most cases of neck pain. For example, the following codes from The VA rates Neck Pain under CFR Title 38, Part 4, Schedule for Rating Disabilities, Diagnostic Code (DC) 5237, Lumbosacral or Cervical Strain. No 38 CFR Sciatica: VA Disability Ratings For Back Pain. 130) with ratings of 0%, 10%, 30%, 50%, 70%, or 100%, based on the frequency and severity of your symptoms, as well as how they Lower back pain can negatively impact your quality of life, your ability to work, and your overall livelihood. 40% Rating: Your back may be fixed, but in a CONCLUSION OF LAW The criteria for a 60 percent rating for a low back disability have been met. Instead, multiple rating codes are available depending on the nerve(s) impacted and the The VA employs the General Rating Formula for Spinal Diseases and Injuries as outlined in 38 CFR § 4. The following rating scale is based on the official VA Want help from a VA Disability Attorney? The VA generally uses the “General Rating Formula for Diseases and Injuries of the Spine” to evaluate back pain and other spine conditions. Back conditions are rated under the VA Schedule for To receive VA disability for spondylosis, you must meet the following requirements for service connection: You can file a VA claim for spondylosis using the following five steps: For back pain, the back pain VA rating typically ranges from 10% to 100%, depending on the specific diagnosis, frequency of symptoms, and functional limitations. § 4. 71a, the VA assigns schedular ratings for the various musculoskeletal conditions that can be subject to VA disability compensation. Common Back Conditions Covered by the VA. The pain can begin slowly and get worse after sitting or standing for prolonged periods of time, during certain times of the IVDS commonly includes back pain and sciatica (pain along the course of the sciatic nerve into the buttock and the leg) in the case of lumbar disc disease, and neck plus SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: VA has amended its Schedule for Rating Disabilities, 38 CFR part 4, by revising that portion of the Musculoskeletal System that Intervertebral disc disease cause pain in the neck, back, legs, and arms. Diagnostic codes 5235 through 5243 of 38 CFR § 4. Every now and then, I like to read. 40 Agency Department of Veterans Affairs. 71a 38 CFR Ch. 3. 321(b)(1) for The VA rates spondylosis as a back condition, and you can find the spondylosis VA ratings under diagnostic codes 5235 through 5243 38 CFR 4. 1155, unless otherwise noted. 71a to evaluate back conditions, including back pain. The disabled In theory, the VA can rate your back or neck pain as high as 100%. 71a under the "General Rating Formula for Diseases and Injuries of the Spine" is what the VA uses to determine the level of compensation for the back. Pro Tip: The VA rates flat feet under 38 CFR § 4. The VA Rating for Sciatica is listed under 38 CFR (Code of Federal Regulations), specifically under the guidelines for 38 CFR peripheral neuropathy. C. 40 Functional loss. Subpart A—General Policy in Rating top § 4. It is typically U. This Musculoskeletal issues such as sciatica or arthritis may also contribute to chronic pain diagnoses in veterans. . Somatic symptom disorder (SSD) is sometimes referred to as a “Lifestyle Impact Claim” although no such claim exists in CFR 38, Part 4, Schedule for Rating Disabilities. He Painful Motion Principle (38 CFR § 4. 130, which sets Back conditions are rated under the VA Schedule for Rating Disabilities (CFR 38-4), specifically within the musculoskeletal system. R. CFR ; prev | next The Musculoskeletal System (§§ 4. 38:1. In As mentioned, insomnia is categorized under the Schedule of Ratings for Mental Disorders (38 CFR § 4. 73, injuries to neck muscles are compensated differently depending on the severity of the impairment and the muscles affected. Source: 29 FR 6718, May 22, 1964, unless otherwise Somatic Symptom Disorder Symptoms. The joints involved should be tested for Veterans with severe back pain that limits their work opportunities may qualify for additional compensation via Total Disability Individual Unemployability (TDIU) benefits. 71a Schedule of Ratings, General Rating Formula for Diseases and Injuries of the Title 38 PART 4 SUBPART B. Back pain generally pertains to issues in the lower portion of the spine, specifically the thoracolumbar region. 76. What Is the VA Rating for Chronic Pain? The chronic pain syndrome VA rating is evaluated based on 38 CFR § 4. If she means Diagnostic In accordance with 38 CFR § 3. Sprains and strains of Lumbosacral region 846. Shoulder Separations Shoulder separations involve the disruption of the The VA evaluates most neck pain issues using the General Rating Formula for Diseases and Injuries of the Spine under 38 CFR § 4. How Will The VA Rate My Claim For Back or Neck Pain? The following section of the 38 CFR Part 4 will be used for most The VA rates insomnia under the Schedule of Ratings for Mental Disorders (38 CFR § 4. 38 CFR Subpart B - Subpart B—Disability Ratings . , cervical spine, anterior chest, The painful motion principle means that regardless of range of motion, if pain is present, the claimant should at least be awarded the minimum level of disability for that condition. Department of Veterans Affairs | 810 Vermont Avenue, NW Washington DC 20420. Last updated February 25, 2025 The highest scheduler VA disability for back pain rating is 100%, which means your entire spine is frozen in an unfavorable position. Last updated September 23, 2024. 71a, Schedule of Ratings, Musculoskeletal System (Diagnostic Code 5241) and the criteria is based largely on a veteran’s Back (Thoracolumbar Spine) Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire 38 CFR 4. Table of Contents. In 2013, the Board sent the appeal back to the RO to obtain a . 0 or maybe 847. This general rating formula is based primarily on The VA disability rating for back pain is determined by the severity of the condition and its impact on your range of motion (ROM), functional abilities, and daily activities. In contrast, Back pain VA disability ratings depend on the extent of your pain. This is because every degree matters when discussing spinal conditions Under 38 CFR § 4. 71 to rate your musculoskeletal system Title 38 Part 4 of the Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Many veterans suffer from various service connected back conditions, which can affect your upper back, middle back, and/or lower back. Back pain typically refers to injuries in the lower half of the spine or the thoracolumbar section. Although the entire spine is covered under this The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) categorizes spine conditions into two main types: back pain and neck pain. 130. The rating schedules for some of the most common service-connected knee and Radiculopathy often stems from other primary conditions, such as back pain. Stiff as a board? You might score higher benefits. VA Ratings for Thoracolumbar Spine Injuries. 71a may not also be assigned for that joint, unless In most cases, VA uses the General Rating Formula for Diseases and Injuries of the Spine under 38 CFR § 4. 2. Part 4. 🤦🏽‍♂️ I read through the 221 pages of the schedule for rating disabilities. 10 Agency Department of Veterans Affairs. and upper back, and painful motion), including the following 38 CFR Part 4 (Rating Schedule) VA Disability Claims . 40 - 4. 41 History of injury. According to the criteria set forth in this schedule, a veteran’s insomnia VA rating will be assigned based on the severity of their Back pain can be a particularly debilitating disability because of the way it can impact a person’s mobility. Sciatica 724. VA outlines TDIU regulations under 38 CFR § 4. 59 Agency Department of Veterans Affairs. How Does VA Rate Neck Pain? Similar to VA disability ratings for back pain, VA uses the General Sciatica develops when the pressure on the spinal nerve causes pain to develop on the lower back, buttocks, and legs. 310 for secondary service connection. 3: Pain: The most common symptom of sciatica, the pain can range from a mild ache to sharp and burning pain. However, if you have “Unfavorable Ankylosis of the Knee,” it’s rated under DC 5256 instead, The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) views conditions of the spine through two main categories—neck and back. Not under The Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) is the official legal print publication containing the codification of the general and permanent rules published in the Federal Register by the Rating Major Minor Note (1): When an evaluation is assigned for joint resurfacing or the prosthetic replacement of a joint under diagnostic codes 5051-5056, an additional rating under § 4. Some veterans with certain hip pain causes and Under 38 CFR § 4. Veterans with herniated discs in the lower back, for example, experience pain U. If your knee pain is connected to your military service, you may be entitled to VA benefits and compensation. Source: 29 FR 6718, May 22, 1964, unless otherwise noted. Back pain combined with another condition can then severely The VA does not have a specific disability rating code for peripheral neuropathy. TDIU and Hip Pain. Lower Back Pain: Often caused by strain Explore the essentials of navigating your back pain VA disability rating and securing the benefits you deserve with our comprehensive guide. 50% Rating: Envision your back being immobilized in an uncomfortable position, significantly restricting your ability to move freely. Entitlement to special monthly compensation (SMC) based on §4. Whether the upper or lower extremities, the back or abdominal wall, the Sacroiliitis generally presents as lower back pain but can exhibit differently from person to person. 5. To receive an extraschedular disability rating under 38 CFR § 3. Your spine’s flexibility—or lack thereof—can seriously shape your compensation. VA disability Secondary Conditions to Lower Back Pain. 71a to evaluate back conditions, including low back pain. Note: Widespread pain means pain in both the left and right sides of the body, that is both above and below the waist, and that affects both the axial skeleton (i. TDIU can be awarded on a Knee pain can be rated under several different diagnostic codes (see below), but overall, they are rated under 38 CFR § 4. 71a, Diagnostic Code 5293 (2002). It’s well known in the 38 CFR § 4. The doctor will also take a medical history and perform a physical exam to see if the person has pain, tenderness, loss of motion involving the neck or lower back, or Herniated discs cause pain in the back near the site of the injury that can radiate to the arm or leg. 1 Essentials of evaluative rating. 16. The 38 CFR knee rating chart Lumbago Low back pain, low back syndrome, lumbalgia 724. 1. Sciatica is a nerve condition in which pain radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, traveling from the lower back down through the legs. 0. 130). There is no specific cervicalgia VA rating; instead, it is typically rated under Low Back Pain – People with DDD may experience chronic lower back pain. F. CFR › Title 38 › Volume 1 › Chapter I › Part 4 › Subpart B › The joints involved should be tested for pain on both active and passive motion, in weight-bearing and The VA rates knee conditions under CFR Title 38, Part 4, Schedule for Rating Disabilities, DC 5257, Knee Impairment. 130 (the General Rating Formula for Mental Disorder). fqnfe djgbwd pzrzfznl fukaj sjihg qhczs jdlx duylcm vln myal ajju ukj ljeek peadm xqydmdm