Degenerative Arthritis of the Spine — VA Disability Rating Criteria (DC 5242)
Diagnostic Code 5242 · 38 CFR §4.71a
What Is It?
Degenerative arthritis of the spine is the breakdown of cartilage and bone in the spinal joints, causing pain, stiffness, and loss of motion. It is extremely common among veterans due to the physical demands of military service — carrying heavy loads, operating vehicles, physical training, and sustained stress on the spine over years of service. DC 5242 is rated using the General Rating Formula for Diseases and Injuries of the Spine, the same criteria used for DC 5237 (lumbosacral strain) and other spinal conditions. The rating is based on range of motion measurements and the presence of muscle spasm, guarding, or abnormal spinal contour.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 100% | Unfavorable ankylosis of the entire spine. |
| 50% | Unfavorable ankylosis of the entire thoracolumbar spine. |
| 40% | Forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine 30 degrees or less, or favorable ankylosis of the entire thoracolumbar spine. |
| 30% | For cervical spine conditions: forward flexion of the cervical spine 15 degrees or less, or favorable ankylosis of the entire cervical spine. |
| 20% | Forward flexion greater than 30 but not greater than 60 degrees; or combined ROM not greater than 120 degrees; or muscle spasm or guarding severe enough to result in abnormal gait or spinal contour. |
| 10% | Forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine greater than 60 but not greater than 85 degrees; or combined ROM greater than 120 but not greater than 235 degrees; or muscle spasm, guarding, or localized tenderness not resulting in abnormal gait or spinal contour. |
Evidence Needed
X-ray or MRI evidence showing degenerative changes in the spine. Range of motion measurements. Service treatment records documenting spinal complaints or injuries during service. Treatment records showing ongoing management. Document any associated radiculopathy for separate rating.
C&P Exam Tips
The exam is the same as for other spine conditions under the General Rating Formula. ROM in six directions, DeLuca factors, and documentation of muscle spasm or guarding. The same tips apply — be honest about pain, describe flare-ups clearly, and mention any associated nerve symptoms.
How to File
File on VA Form 21-526EZ listing degenerative arthritis of the spine and the affected spinal segment. Include imaging reports and treatment records. Claim associated radiculopathy separately if present.
Common Mistakes
The same mistakes apply as for DC 5237 — not claiming radiculopathy separately, not describing flare-ups, and not requesting DeLuca factor consideration. Additionally, veterans with both cervical (neck) and lumbar (lower back) arthritis should claim each spinal segment separately, as they are rated independently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is spinal arthritis rated differently from a back strain?
No. DC 5242 (degenerative arthritis of the spine) and DC 5237 (lumbosacral strain) are both rated under the same General Rating Formula for Diseases of the Spine, using the same ROM criteria. The distinction is in the underlying pathology, not the rating methodology.
Can I get separate ratings for neck and back arthritis?
Yes. The cervical spine and the thoracolumbar spine are rated separately. If you have degenerative arthritis in both your neck and lower back, each is evaluated independently with its own rating.