Common symptoms
- ▸Chronic low or upper back pain
- ▸Stiffness, limited motion
- ▸Radiating pain / numbness (radiculopathy)
- ▸Flare-ups limiting daily activities
Common evidence
- ▸MRI / X-ray
- ▸ROM measurements
- ▸PT notes
- ▸STR showing in-service back complaints
- ▸Lay statement on flare-ups
Primary service connection examples
- ▸Documented in-service back injury
- ▸Repetitive heavy lifting MOS
- ▸Parachute jumps
- ▸Vehicle accidents in service
Secondary service connection examples
- ▸Radiculopathy secondary to back
- ▸Knee/hip condition secondary to altered gait
- ▸Bowel/bladder issues secondary to severe back
Rating basics
Lumbar: 10% (forward flexion 60–85°), 20% (30–60°), 40% (≤30°), 50% (unfavorable ankylosis), 100% (unfavorable ankylosis of entire spine). Rate radiculopathy separately.
Common denial reasons
- ✕No in-service complaint or treatment
- ✕ROM measured without considering pain on motion (DeLuca)
- ✕Failure to claim radiculopathy