Diagnostic Code 5242 · 38 CFR §4.71a
Degenerative arthritis of the spine is the breakdown of cartilage and bone in the spinal joints, causing pain, stiffness, and loss of motion. It is extremely common among veterans due to the physical demands of military service — carrying heavy loads, operating vehicles, physical training, and sustained stress on the spine over years of service. DC 5242 is rated using the General Rating Formula for Diseases and Injuries of the Spine, the same criteria used for DC 5237 (lumbosacral strain) and other spinal conditions. The rating is based on range of motion measurements and the presence of muscle spasm, guarding, or abnormal spinal contour.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 10% | Forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine greater than 60 but not greater than 85 degrees; or combined ROM greater than 120 but not greater than 235 degrees; or muscle spasm, guarding, or localized tenderness not resulting in abnormal gait or spinal contour. |
| 20% | Forward flexion greater than 30 but not greater than 60 degrees; or combined ROM not greater than 120 degrees; or muscle spasm or guarding severe enough to result in abnormal gait or spinal contour. |
| 30% | For cervical spine conditions: forward flexion of the cervical spine 15 degrees or less, or favorable ankylosis of the entire cervical spine. |
| 40% | Forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine 30 degrees or less, or favorable ankylosis of the entire thoracolumbar spine. |
| 50% | Unfavorable ankylosis of the entire thoracolumbar spine. |
| 100% | Unfavorable ankylosis of the entire spine. |
X-ray or MRI evidence showing degenerative changes in the spine. Range of motion measurements. Service treatment records documenting spinal complaints or injuries during service. Treatment records showing ongoing management. Document any associated radiculopathy for separate rating.
No. DC 5242 (degenerative arthritis of the spine) and DC 5237 (lumbosacral strain) are both rated under the same General Rating Formula for Diseases of the Spine, using the same ROM criteria. The distinction is in the underlying pathology, not the rating methodology.
Yes. The cervical spine and the thoracolumbar spine are rated separately. If you have degenerative arthritis in both your neck and lower back, each is evaluated independently with its own rating.