Diagnostic Code 5235 · 38 CFR §4.71a
DC 5235 covers residuals of vertebral fractures or dislocations of the spine. A vertebral fracture is a break in one of the bones that make up your spinal column. These fractures can occur in the cervical, thoracic, or lumbar spine and may result from high-energy trauma like vehicle accidents, falls, blast injuries, or parachute landings. Compression fractures from osteoporosis are also included. The residual effects typically include chronic pain, limited spinal motion, muscle spasm, and in severe cases, neurological deficits from spinal cord or nerve root involvement. VA rates this condition under the General Rating Formula for Diseases and Injuries of the Spine.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 100% | |
| 50% | |
| 40% | |
| 30% | |
| 20% | |
| 10% |
Imaging showing the vertebral fracture or dislocation, Medical records from the injury event during service, Spinal range of motion measurements, Documentation of muscle spasm, guarding, or abnormal gait, Neurological examination results if radiculopathy is present