Does pain on motion matter if my range of motion is near normal?

Yes. Painful motion should be recognized as at least the minimum compensable rating for the joint under 38 CFR 4.59 (Burton v. Shinseki).

Can I get rated for both my back and sciatica?

Yes. Radiculopathy and other neurological problems are rated separately from the spine under the General Rating Formula, Note 1, typically using DC 8520 for the sciatic nerve.

What if my flare-up doesn't happen on exam day?

The examiner must estimate lost motion during flare-ups based on all the evidence, including your description, or explain why they can't (Sharp v. Shulkin). A flare-up log helps.

What counts as an incapacitating episode for IVDS?

A period of acute symptoms that requires bed rest prescribed by a physician and treatment by a physician (38 CFR 4.71a, IVDS Note 1).

Back and Spine Claims: Measure What Matters

How VA rates back and neck conditions under 38 CFR 4.71a: range-of-motion thresholds, IVDS episodes, flare-ups, and separate radiculopathy ratings.

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What members get here

🔒 Rule: General Rating Formula for the Spine (38 CFR 4.71a)
🔒 What the examiner must consider
🔒 Checklist
🔒 Know the normal ranges
🔒 The IVDS alternative