Diagnostic Code 5320 · 38 CFR §4.73
Muscle Group XX consists of the spinal muscles including the sacrospinalis (erector spinae), longissimus, spinalis, and the deep muscles along the spine such as the multifidus and rotatores. These muscles extend, rotate, and laterally bend the spine, and they are essential for maintaining upright posture. Damage to these muscles from penetrating wounds, blast injuries, or severe back trauma can cause chronic pain, postural instability, and profound limitations in almost every physical activity since the spine is involved in virtually all movements.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 0% | |
| 10% | |
| 20% | |
| 40% |
Service records documenting the back muscle injury, Treatment and surgical records, Spine range of motion measurements, Documentation of paraspinal muscle spasm, atrophy, or tenderness, Statements about difficulty with prolonged standing, sitting, bending, and lifting