Diagnostic Code 5238 · 38 CFR §4.71a
Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal that puts pressure on the spinal cord and nerve roots. This narrowing can be caused by bone spurs, thickened ligaments, disc bulging, or a combination of degenerative changes. Symptoms include pain, numbness, and weakness in the arms or legs depending on which part of the spine is affected. Lumbar stenosis typically causes leg pain and weakness that worsens with walking, a pattern called neurogenic claudication. Cervical stenosis can cause arm weakness and balance problems. Veterans commonly develop stenosis from years of heavy physical work, spinal injuries during service, or the natural progression of service-connected disc disease.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 100% | |
| 50% | |
| 40% | |
| 20% | |
| 10% |
MRI or CT scan showing spinal canal narrowing, Medical records linking spinal stenosis to service or a service-connected condition, Spinal range of motion measurements, Neurological examination results documenting nerve involvement, Documentation of how walking distance is limited by symptoms