Spine Codes
The VASRD (Veterans Affairs Schedule for Rating Disabilities) used a different system for rating spine conditions. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the older codes, their descriptions, and their updates under the new system:
Vertebral Fracture
VASRD 5235:
- Fracture of a vertebra.
- 100%: Spinal cord damage requiring long leg braces or bedridden status.
- 60%: Requires a neck brace but no spinal cord damage.
- Other fractures rated on limited motion of the spine (Codes 5286–5292).
Complete Bony Fixation of the Spine
5240 and 5241:
- Fusion of the spine with no movement.
- 100%: Spine is fused in an unnatural position (e.g., severe curve).
- 60%: Spine is fused in a normal position.
Intervertebral Disc Syndrome
Code 5243:
- Dysfunctional disc conditions (herniation, degeneration).
- Rated on Incapacitating Episodes (as it is now) or:
- Additional ratings for symptoms like nerve pain or limited motion.
- Combined ratings calculated using VA Math for one overall score.
Sacroiliac Injury and Weakness
Code 5236:
- Injury or weakness in the Sacroiliac Joint.
Lumbosacral Strain
Code 5237:
- Pain or injury in the Lumbosacral Joint.
- 40%: Severe symptoms, including significant motion limitation or abnormal spine positioning.
- 20%: Muscle spasms when bending forward or inability to bend sideways.
- 10%: Pain with motion.
- 0%: Minor symptoms.
Key Notes on Old Spine Ratings
- Segments Rated Separately:
- Cervical, dorsal, and lumbar sections could be rated individually if significantly affected.
- Minor involvement in other segments would not receive separate ratings.
- Analogous Ratings:
- Any spine condition not directly covered by the old codes was rated analogously using the closest match.
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