VASRD 5237 · Musculoskeletal System – Spine
Lumbosacral or Cervical Strain at 20% VA Disability Rating
Moderate loss of back or neck motion, or muscle spasm severe enough to visibly change posture or walking.
20%: single veteran, no dependents
$356.66
$4,279.92/year · tax-free · effective December 1, 2025
VA Rating Criteria for 20%
Forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine greater than 30 but not greater than 60 degrees; or forward flexion of the cervical spine greater than 15 but not greater than 30 degrees; or combined range of motion of the thoracolumbar spine not greater than 120 degrees; or combined range of motion of the cervical spine not greater than 170 degrees; or muscle spasm or guarding severe enough to cause an abnormal gait or abnormal spinal contour.
20% Pay by Household (2026)
Monthly compensation amounts for Lumbosacral or Cervical Strain rated at 20%. Dependent additions apply at 30% and above.
| Single (no dependents) | $356.66 |
| With spouse | $356.66 |
| With spouse + 1 child | $356.66 |
| With spouse + 2 children | $356.66 |
| Single + 1 child (no spouse) | $356.66 |
Lower tier
10% Lumbosacral or Cervical Strain
$180.42 /mo single
Higher tier
30% Lumbosacral or Cervical Strain
$552.47 /mo single
Common questions about 20% for Lumbosacral or Cervical Strain
- How much does a 20% VA rating for Lumbosacral or Cervical Strain pay?
- A single veteran rated 20% for Lumbosacral or Cervical Strain receives $356.66 per month ($4,279.92/year) under the 2026 VA rates, effective December 1, 2025. VA disability compensation is tax-free. With a spouse and one child, the monthly amount is $356.66.
- What does it take to get a 20% rating for Lumbosacral or Cervical Strain?
- Forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine greater than 30 but not greater than 60 degrees; or forward flexion of the cervical spine greater than 15 but not greater than 30 degrees; or combined range of motion of the thoracolumbar spine not greater than 120 degrees; or combined range of motion of the cervical spine no…
- What's the difference between 20% and 30% for Lumbosacral or Cervical Strain?
- 20%: Moderate loss of back or neck motion, or muscle spasm severe enough to visibly change posture or walking. 30%: Neck can barely bend forward, 15 degrees or less.
- Can a secondary condition raise my rating above 20%?
- Yes. If a condition like Radiculopathy is service-connected as secondary to Lumbosacral or Cervical Strain, the VA combines both ratings using the official combined-ratings formula (38 CFR 4.25), which can produce a combined rating higher than 20% alone.
See all rating tiers and evidence guidance
Full VASRD criteria, best evidence, exam pitfalls, and secondary conditions for Lumbosacral or Cervical Strain are on the main condition page.
View full Lumbosacral or Cervical Strain guide