VASRD 5238 · Musculoskeletal System – Spine

Spinal Stenosis VA Disability Rating

Spinal stenosis is narrowing of the spinal canal that puts pressure on the spinal cord and nerves.

VA Rating Tiers

RatingCriteria
100%Severe spine narrowing causing paralysis-like symptoms or immobility.
50%Bad back fusion with nerve pain or numbness in limbs.
20%Moderate stiffness in spine making it hard to bend or twist.
10%Mild narrowing of spine causing back pain with limited bending.

How the VA Evaluates Spinal Stenosis

MRI or CT confirming stenosis, physical exam documenting ROM and neurological impairment.

Approval rate

High – when supported with imaging and ROM loss.

Annual service-connected

25,900 veterans

Average rating

30%

Best Evidence to Gather

  • •MRI or CT scan showing narrowing
  • •Neurological testing (EMG or reflex tests)
  • •C&P exam results showing ROM loss or symptoms
  • •Statements describing pain and mobility issues

Strategy Tips

  • •Submit imaging early with claim
  • •Get full ROM and neuro testing
  • •Include lay evidence about walking or balance issues

C&P Exam Pitfalls

  • •Missing imaging proof of spinal narrowing
  • •No ROM documentation
  • •Underreporting neurological impact

Common Filing Mistakes

  • •No imaging documentation
  • •Claimed without describing nerve issues or mobility loss
  • •Submitted under general back pain

Onset Patterns

  • •Often develops gradually from age or trauma
  • •Symptoms worsen with standing or walking

Secondary Conditions

Conditions commonly linked to Spinal Stenosis. Service-connecting a secondary condition can increase your combined rating.

  • Radiculopathy

    Nerve compression from stenosis is common.

  • Neurogenic Claudication

    Leg pain and weakness when walking due to nerve pressure.

Common questions about Spinal Stenosis

Is Spinal Stenosis a VA-rated disability?
Yes. The VA rates Spinal Stenosis under VASRD diagnostic code 5238 (Musculoskeletal System – Spine). Spinal stenosis is narrowing of the spinal canal that puts pressure on the spinal cord and nerves.
What VA disability rating can I get for Spinal Stenosis?
Possible VA ratings for Spinal Stenosis are 100%, 50%, 20%, 10%. Examples: 100% — Severe spine narrowing causing paralysis-like symptoms or immobility.; 50% — Bad back fusion with nerve pain or numbness in limbs.; 20% — Moderate stiffness in spine making it hard to bend or twist..
What's the typical VA rating awarded for Spinal Stenosis?
The average awarded rating for Spinal Stenosis is 30%. Roughly 25,900 veterans are service-connected for Spinal Stenosis each year. Typical approval likelihood: High – when supported with imaging and ROM loss..
What evidence helps prove Spinal Stenosis for VA disability?
Strong evidence for a Spinal Stenosis claim includes: MRI or CT scan showing narrowing; Neurological testing (EMG or reflex tests); C&P exam results showing ROM loss or symptoms; Statements describing pain and mobility issues.
What mistakes should veterans avoid when claiming Spinal Stenosis?
Common pitfalls when filing for Spinal Stenosis: No imaging documentation; Claimed without describing nerve issues or mobility loss; Submitted under general back pain.
What conditions are commonly secondary to Spinal Stenosis?
Conditions often service-connected as secondary to Spinal Stenosis include: Radiculopathy, Neurogenic Claudication. Filing for secondary conditions can increase a veteran's combined VA rating.

Estimate your combined rating

See how Spinal Stenosis combines with your other service-connected conditions using the official VA combined-ratings formula.

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