Degenerative arthritis, degenerative disc disease other than intervertebral disc syndrome (also, see either DC 5003 or 5010)
Degenerative arthritis, degenerative disc disease other than intervertebral disc syndrome (also, see either DC 5003 or 5010) is a VA-ratable condition under diagnostic code 5242 in the Spine category. Maximum rating: 100%.
Spine Range of Motion
Source: 38 CFR § 4.71 - Measurement of ankylosis and joint motion
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 100% | Unfavorable ankylosis of entire spine |
| 50% | Unfavorable ankylosis of entire thoracolumbar spine |
| 40% | THORACOLUMBAR: Forward flexion ≤30° OR favorable ankylosis. CERVICAL: Unfavorable ankylosis |
| 30% | CERVICAL ONLY: Forward flexion ≤15° OR favorable ankylosis |
| 20% | Forward flexion >30° but ≤60° OR muscle spasm/guarding severe enough to result in abnormal gait or abnormal spinal contour |
| 10% | Forward flexion >60° but ≤85° OR combined ROM limited OR muscle spasm/guarding/tenderness |
Important Notes
Age-related wear and tear of spinal discs and vertebrae. Often seen with DDD (degenerative disc disease). X-ray/MRI evidence required.
Filing Tips
Pro Tip: The VA won't connect the dots for you. That's your job. Build the paper trail before you file.
Gather medical evidence showing a current diagnosis of this condition.
Document in-service events, injuries, or exposures that caused or aggravated this condition.
Consider a nexus letter from a medical professional linking your condition to service.
Review the rating criteria for DC 5242 to understand what symptoms warrant higher ratings.