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Home / Ratings by Condition / Back Pain (Thoracolumbar Spine)

VA Rating for Back Pain (Thoracolumbar Spine)

DC 5237–5243 Max schedular: 100% Category: Musculoskeletal Updated for 2026 rates
The Official Criteria

Back Pain (Thoracolumbar Spine) Rating Chart

Criteria from 38 CFR Part 4 (DC 5237–5243). Pay shown is the 2026 monthly rate for a veteran alone at that percentage by itself.

RatingWhat qualifies2026 monthly pay*
100%Unfavorable ankylosis of the entire spine.$3,938.58
50%Unfavorable ankylosis of the entire thoracolumbar spine.$1,132.90
40%Forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine 30° or less, or favorable ankylosis of the entire thoracolumbar spine.$795.84
20%Forward flexion greater than 30° but not greater than 60°; or combined range of motion not greater than 120°; or muscle spasm/guarding severe enough to cause abnormal gait or abnormal spinal contour.$356.66
10%Forward flexion greater than 60° but not greater than 85°; or combined range of motion greater than 120° but not greater than 235°; or muscle spasm, guarding, or localized tenderness.$180.42

*Rate for that single rating with no dependents. Your combined rating and household may differ — run your exact numbers in our calculator.

How the VA Rates Back Pain (Thoracolumbar Spine)

The VA rates the low and mid back under the General Rating Formula for the Spine, driven almost entirely by range of motion measured with a goniometer at your C&P exam. Forward flexion (bending forward) is the key measurement. Pain must be counted from the point it begins — not where movement stops (38 CFR § 4.59). Intervertebral disc syndrome can alternatively be rated on incapacitating episodes: 60% for 6+ weeks of doctor-prescribed bed rest in the past year, 40% for 4–6 weeks, 20% for 2–4 weeks, 10% for 1–2 weeks.

Evidence That Wins This Claim

  • Tell the examiner where pain STARTS during bending — the DBQ records that point, and pain that limits motion counts as lost function (38 CFR 4.40).
  • The examiner must test repetitive use (3 bends). If your motion decreases with repetition, that supports a higher rating.
  • Document flare-ups in writing: how many degrees you lose and for how long.
  • Radiating pain, numbness, or tingling into the legs is radiculopathy — a separate rating on top of the back.
  • Prescribed bed rest? Every documented week counts toward the IVDS formula.

Common Questions

What is the average VA rating for back pain?

Most veterans initially receive 10% or 20% because ROM is measured without accounting for pain onset or flare-ups. With complete evidence, 40% is achievable when forward flexion is functionally limited to 30 degrees or less.

Can I get separate ratings for my back and sciatica?

Yes. Radiculopathy in each leg is rated separately under DC 8520 on top of the spine rating, and paired-limb ratings can trigger the bilateral factor.