Thoracic Spine Strain

DC 5237Musculoskeletal38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5237

Pain and limited motion in the middle and upper back caused by muscle strain or injury. The VA rates thoracic spine strain using the General Rating Formula for Diseases of the Spine, based on how much your forward bending and overall range of motion is limited.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition primarily based on range-of-motion measurements. During your C&P exam, the examiner will use a goniometer to measure how far you can move the affected joint. Pain, flare-ups, and repetitive-use limitations also factor into the final rating.

Diagnostic code

DC 5237

Rating range

10% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5237. This guide presents a plain-language summary and is not a substitute for the full regulatory text. Always consult a VSO or VA-accredited attorney for case-specific advice.

Rating Levels

You have unfavorable ankylosis of the entire spine. Both your cervical and thoracolumbar spine are fixed in an abnormal position.

What the VA looks for

Unfavorable ankylosis of entire spine
Entire spine fixed in abnormal position
Total inability to move the spine
Severe impact on all daily activities

Common Pitfalls

⚠The thoracic spine is rated together with the lumbar spine as "thoracolumbar" — you cannot receive separate ratings for thoracic and lumbar strain. However, if you also have cervical (neck) spine problems, that is rated separately.
⚠Not reporting pain and limitations on your worst days — DeLuca factors (pain, weakness, fatigability, flare-ups) can support a higher rating even with borderline range of motion.
⚠Not filing for radiculopathy separately — if thoracic nerve roots are compressed, causing pain that radiates around the trunk, this may warrant a separate neurological rating.
⚠Not connecting thoracic spine problems to military activities — heavy lifting, rucking, parachute jumps, and vehicle vibration during service are common causes.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Back (Thoracolumbar Spine) Conditions

View evidence checklist →C&P exam prep guide →See secondary conditions →

Related Conditions

Conditions commonly associated with Thoracic Spine Strain or rated under the same body system.

Cervical Strain (Neck Pain)

DC 5237·Musculoskeletal·Possible secondary

Lumbar Strain (Low Back Pain)

DC 5237·Musculoskeletal·Possible secondary

Knee Limitation of Flexion

DC 5260·Musculoskeletal

Knee Limitation of Extension

DC 5261·Musculoskeletal

Knee Instability (Subluxation)

DC 5257·Musculoskeletal

Plantar Fasciitis (Foot Pain)

DC 5276·Musculoskeletal

Degenerative Arthritis (Osteoarthritis)

DC 5003·Musculoskeletal

Fibromyalgia

DC 5025·Musculoskeletal

Condition Rating Guides

Understand what the VA looks for at each rating level — loading conditions…

Thoracic Spine Strain

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 5237

Rating range

10% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have unfavorable ankylosis of the entire spine. Both your cervical and thoracolumbar spine are fixed in an abnormal position.

What the VA looks for

Unfavorable ankylosis of entire spine
Entire spine fixed in abnormal position
Total inability to move the spine
Severe impact on all daily activities

Common Pitfalls

⚠The thoracic spine is rated together with the lumbar spine as "thoracolumbar" — you cannot receive separate ratings for thoracic and lumbar strain. However, if you also have cervical (neck) spine problems, that is rated separately.

⚠Not reporting pain and limitations on your worst days — DeLuca factors (pain, weakness, fatigability, flare-ups) can support a higher rating even with borderline range of motion.

⚠Not filing for radiculopathy separately — if thoracic nerve roots are compressed, causing pain that radiates around the trunk, this may warrant a separate neurological rating.

⚠Not connecting thoracic spine problems to military activities — heavy lifting, rucking, parachute jumps, and vehicle vibration during service are common causes.