Diagnostic code
Diagnostic Code 5242: Degenerative Arthritis of the Spine Rating Criteria
- CFR section
- 38 CFR § 4.71a
- Rating range
- 10% to 40%
- Rating levels
- 3
- Body system
- Musculoskeletal system
The VA rates Degenerative Arthritis of the Spine under diagnostic code 5242 in 38 CFR § 4.71a. The table below is the full set of rating criteria, from the schedule itself, with the evidence factors raters look for at each level.
DC 5242 rating criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 10% | Forward flexion 60-85 degrees What raters look formild limitation |
| 20% | Forward flexion 30-60 degrees What raters look formoderate limitation |
| 40% | Forward flexion 30 degrees or less What raters look forsevere limitation |
Condition guide
The rating criteria are only part of the picture for Degenerative Disc Disease. The Degenerative Disc Disease condition page covers service connection, common evidence problems, secondary conditions, and Board outcome patterns in depth.
Other conditions rated under this code: Thoracic Spine, Cervical Spine (Neck), Back (Lumbar Spine).
What happens to Degenerative Disc Disease appeals at the Board
Claim Raven's analysis of 483 decided Board of Veterans' Appeals cases with Degenerative Disc Disease as the primary issue. The Degenerative Disc Disease condition page has the full breakdown, including which evidence types are associated with better outcomes.
Method: outcomes are coded per case from the Board's published decisions, rolled up as granted (including partial grants), denied, or remanded, excluding dismissals. The dataset codes the condition on appeal, not the diagnostic code, so these numbers describe Degenerative Disc Disease appeals generally rather than DC 5242 specifically. Board outcomes describe appealed claims, not initial decisions.
Frequently asked questions
What is VA diagnostic code 5242?
Diagnostic code 5242 is the VA rating schedule entry for Degenerative Arthritis of the Spine, found in 38 CFR § 4.71a. The VA assigns this code when it rates the condition and applies the criteria listed on this page.
What ratings are possible under DC 5242?
DC 5242 provides ratings of 10%, 20%, 40%. The percentage depends on which criteria your medical evidence documents, not on the diagnosis alone.
What does the highest rating under DC 5242 require?
The 40% rating for Degenerative Arthritis of the Spine requires: Forward flexion 30 degrees or less.