LOADING
Thoracolumbar Strain is rated by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs under DC 5237 of 38 CFR § 4.71a, DC 5237 across 6 severity tiers (10% / 20% / 30% / 40% / 50%…). Service connection requires (1) a current diagnosis, (2) an in-service event, injury, or exposure, and (3) a medical nexus opinion linking the two under 38 C.F.R. § 3.303. This condition is frequently rated as secondary to Intercostal Neuralgia or Costochondritis under 38 C.F.R. § 3.310.
Thoracolumbar strain is a musculoligamentous injury of the mid-to-lower back involving the paraspinal muscles, tendons, and supporting ligaments of the thoracic and lumbar spine, typically producing pain, stiffness, muscle spasm or guarding, and restricted range of motion. It is one of the most common service-connected spine conditions, frequently arising from acute overload or chronic repetitive mechanical stress rather than disc herniation or fracture. Under VA rating, the disability is measured primarily by limitation of thoracolumbar forward flexion and combined range of motion, the presence of muscle spasm or guarding severe enough to alter gait or spinal contour, and any ankylosis.
Rating criteria reference 38 C.F.R. Part 4 (Schedule for Rating Disabilities). This entry has not yet undergone editorial review against the live regulation text — consult the authoritative source directly before relying on the criteria shown.