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DC 5243Musculoskeletal System38 CFR § 4.71a, DC 5243, Formula for Rating IVDS Based on Incapacitating Episodes

Intervertebral Disc Syndrome (IVDS)

VA disability rating criteria for Intervertebral Disc Syndrome (IVDS) under Diagnostic Code 5243. The VA assigns ratings of 0%, 10%, 20%, 40%, 60% based on the severity and functional impact of your condition.

Rating Criteria

0%Disability Rating

Intervertebral disc syndrome diagnosed but with no incapacitating episodes and range of motion not meeting criteria for a compensable rating under the General Rating Formula for Diseases and Injuries of the Spine.

Note: IVDS may be rated under either the General Rating Formula for Diseases and Injuries of the Spine or the Formula for Rating IVDS Based on Incapacitating Episodes, whichever method results in the higher evaluation. An incapacitating episode is a period of acute signs and symptoms due to IVDS that requires bed rest prescribed by a physician and treatment by a physician.

10%Disability Rating

Incapacitating episodes having a total duration of at least one week but less than 2 weeks during the past 12 months.

Note: An incapacitating episode is defined as a period of acute signs and symptoms due to IVDS that requires bed rest prescribed by a physician and treatment by a physician. If the General Rating Formula yields a higher rating, use that instead.

20%Disability Rating

Incapacitating episodes having a total duration of at least 2 weeks but less than 4 weeks during the past 12 months.

40%Disability Rating

Incapacitating episodes having a total duration of at least 4 weeks but less than 6 weeks during the past 12 months.

60%Disability Rating

Incapacitating episodes having a total duration of at least 6 weeks during the past 12 months.

Note: 60% is the maximum rating under the IVDS incapacitating episodes formula. Consider whether the General Rating Formula yields a higher evaluation.

Secondary Conditions

2 known secondary conditions linked to Intervertebral Disc Syndrome (IVDS)

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