Cervical Spine (Neck)
Cervical spine conditions are rated under Diagnostic Codes 5235 through 5242 using the General Rating Formula for the Spine. The cervical spine has its own ROM criteria separate from the thoracolumbar spine. Veterans with conditions affecting both their neck and back can receive two separate ratings. Examiners and raters are required to consider flare-ups when measuring ROM.
VA Rating Levels
Forward flexion measures more than 30 degrees but less than 45 degrees, or combined ROM is between 175 and 340 degrees.
Forward flexion measures more than 15 degrees but not more than 30 degrees, or combined ROM is 170 degrees or less.
Forward flexion measures 15 degrees or less, or the entire cervical spine is frozen in a favorable position.
The entire cervical spine is frozen in an unfavorable position (unfavorable ankylosis).
The entire spine (neck through tailbone) is frozen in an unfavorable position (unfavorable ankylosis).
Exam Tips & Key Evidence
- →Your neck and your back are rated separately, which means you can receive two distinct spine ratings.
- →If you have radiculopathy causing pain, numbness, or tingling that radiates into your arms, each affected arm can receive its own separate rating under the nerve damage codes.
- →If your exam doesn't happen during a flare-up, the examiner is still required to estimate your range of motion on your worst day.
- →Pain with motion alone is enough to get you a minimum 10% rating.
Commonly Related Conditions
38 CFR Reference
38 CFR 4.71a, Diagnostic Codes 5237-5242