VASRD 5320 · Musculoskeletal System

Muscle Group XX - Spinal muscles at 10% VA Disability Rating

Moderate damage in the neck or mid-back.

10%: single veteran, no dependents

$180.42

$2,165.04/year · tax-free · effective December 1, 2025

VA Rating Criteria for 10%

Moderate injury of Muscle Group XX in the cervical or thoracic region. The lumbar sub-table has no 10 percent step.

10% Pay by Household (2026)

Monthly compensation amounts for Muscle Group XX - Spinal muscles rated at 10%. Dependent additions apply at 30% and above.

Single (no dependents)$180.42
With spouse$180.42
With spouse + 1 child$180.42
With spouse + 2 children$180.42
Single + 1 child (no spouse)$180.42

Higher tier

20% Muscle Group XX - Spinal muscles

$356.66 /mo single

Common questions about 10% for Muscle Group XX - Spinal muscles

How much does a 10% VA rating for Muscle Group XX - Spinal muscles pay?
A single veteran rated 10% for Muscle Group XX - Spinal muscles receives $180.42 per month ($2,165.04/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 $180.42.
What does it take to get a 10% rating for Muscle Group XX - Spinal muscles?
Moderate injury of Muscle Group XX in the cervical or thoracic region. The lumbar sub-table has no 10 percent step.
What's the difference between 10% and 20% for Muscle Group XX - Spinal muscles?
10%: Moderate damage in the neck or mid-back. 20%: Moderately severe damage in the neck or mid-back, or moderate damage in the lower back.
Can a secondary condition raise my rating above 10%?
Yes. If a condition like Chronic back pain is service-connected as secondary to Muscle Group XX - Spinal muscles, the VA combines both ratings using the official combined-ratings formula (38 CFR 4.25), which can produce a combined rating higher than 10% alone.

Official sources

  1. 38 CFR § 4.73 — Schedule of ratings — muscle injuries (Diagnostic Code 5320)
  2. VA.gov — 2026 veteran disability compensation rates, effective December 1, 2025

Pay amounts on this page were last checked against VA.gov on August 16, 2026.

See all rating tiers and evidence guidance

Full VASRD criteria, best evidence, exam pitfalls, and secondary conditions for Muscle Group XX - Spinal muscles are on the main condition page.

View full Muscle Group XX - Spinal muscles guide
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