Degenerative Disc Disease VA Rating Guide

Overview

A condition where the discs between vertebrae break down, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Common in veterans from heavy lifting, carrying equipment, vehicle operation, parachute jumps, and physical training.

• VA Disability Code: 5242
• ICD Code: M51.36
• Category: Musculoskeletal

Rating Percentages & Criteria

100% Rating

Criteria: Unfavorable ankylosis of the entire spine.

Examples:

• Complete spinal fusion in unfavorable position
• Cannot bend at all
• Severe deformity

50% Rating

Criteria: Unfavorable ankylosis of the entire thoracolumbar spine.

Examples:

• Cannot bend forward at all
• Fixed spinal position
• Severe limitation

40% Rating

Criteria: Forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine 30 degrees or less; or, favorable ankylosis of the entire thoracolumbar spine.

Examples:

• Severely limited bending
• Chronic severe pain
• Requires assistive devices

20% Rating

Criteria: Forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine greater than 30 degrees but not greater than 60 degrees; or, combined range of motion not greater than 120 degrees; or, muscle spasm or guarding severe enough to result in abnormal gait or abnormal spinal contour.

Examples:

• Moderate bending limitation
• Frequent muscle spasms
• Abnormal posture

10% Rating

Criteria: Forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine greater than 60 degrees but not greater than 85 degrees; or, combined range of motion greater than 120 degrees but not greater than 235 degrees; or, muscle spasm, guarding, or localized tenderness not resulting in abnormal gait or spinal contour.

Examples:

• Mild limitation
• Occasional pain
• Some stiffness

Symptoms & Functional Impact

Common symptoms associated with this condition:

• Chronic back pain
• Stiffness, especially in the morning
• Pain that radiates to buttocks or legs
• Numbness or tingling in extremities
• Weakness in legs
• Reduced range of motion
• Pain worsened by sitting or bending

Evidence Requirements for Your Claim

To support your claim, gather the following evidence:

• X-rays or MRI showing disc degeneration
• Medical records documenting diagnosis
• Service records showing physical demands
• Range of motion measurements
• Documentation of treatment

Secondary Conditions Commonly Connected

This condition often leads to secondary disabilities:

Radiculopathy (Strong Connection)

DDD commonly causes nerve compression leading to radiculopathy

Sciatica (Strong Connection)

Lumbar DDD frequently causes sciatic nerve compression

Depression (Moderate Connection)

Chronic pain from DDD can lead to depression

Compensation & Pension (C&P) Exam Tips

Prepare for your C&P exam with these strategic tips:

• Describe your worst days and flare-ups
• Explain how pain affects work and daily activities
• Mention any incapacitating episodes requiring bed rest
• Document all radiating symptoms
• Bring imaging results (X-rays, MRI)

Frequently Asked Questions

How is DDD different from general back pain?

DDD specifically refers to disc breakdown shown on imaging, while back pain is a symptom. DDD provides clearer diagnostic criteria for VA claims.

Can I get separate ratings for DDD and radiculopathy?

Yes. Neurological symptoms like radiculopathy are rated separately from the spinal condition under different diagnostic codes.

Key Points for Your Claim

When filing for Degenerative Disc Disease:

1. Document everything - Every medical visit, treatment, and symptom counts
2. Get a nexus letter - A medical opinion linking your condition to service is crucial
3. Be thorough - Don't downplay your symptoms in your claim
4. Track progression - Show how the condition has worsened over time
5. Claim secondary conditions - Degenerative Disc Disease often causes other disabilities

Ready to File Your Claim?

The VA disability system is complex, but you don't have to navigate it alone. We help veterans understand their benefits, gather strong evidence, and maximize their ratings.

Related Rating Guides:

• Radiculopathy VA Rating Guide
• Sciatica VA Rating Guide
• Depression VA Rating Guide