Fracture, Compression Type, Lumbar Vertebra
Fracture, Compression Type, Lumbar Vertebra is a VA-ratable condition under diagnostic code 5235 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 (N/A for cervical) |
| 40% | THORACOLUMBAR: Forward flexion ≤30° OR favorable ankylosis. CERVICAL: Unfavorable ankylosis of entire cervical spine |
| 30% | CERVICAL ONLY: Forward flexion ≤15° OR favorable ankylosis of entire cervical spine |
| 20% | THORACOLUMBAR: Forward flexion >30° but ≤60° OR combined ROM ≤120°. CERVICAL: Forward flexion >15° but ≤30° |
| 10% | THORACOLUMBAR: Forward flexion >60° but ≤85° OR combined ROM >120° but ≤235°. CERVICAL: Forward flexion >30° but ≤40° OR combined ROM >170° but ≤335°. ALSO: Muscle spasm, guarding, or localized tenderness not resulting in abnormal gait or abnormal spinal contour |
Important Notes
Spine ratings differ for cervical vs thoracolumbar. The 10% criteria includes 'muscle spasm, guarding, or localized tenderness' - allows compensable rating with full ROM but documented objective pain signs. Combined ROM = flexion + extension + lateral flexion (L+R) + rotation (L+R).
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 5235 to understand what symptoms warrant higher ratings.