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Evidence checklist

Intervertebral Disc Syndrome (IVDS)

DC 524338 CFR § 4.71aMusculoskeletal

Evidence strength

Mark what you already have below and your evidence strength appears here.

Target
Saved locally
01

Specialist opinion

Highest value0 of 3 collected
Nexus opinion linking IVDS to service ("at least as likely as not")Critical

A medical opinion connecting your intervertebral disc disease to in-service injury, heavy lifting, or repetitive spinal stress during military duties.

Private provider · independent opinion
Documentation of radiculopathy symptoms (radiation, paresthesia, weakness)

Records documenting nerve root involvement including radiating pain, numbness, tingling, weakness, or reflex changes in the extremities -- these may support additional separate ratings for radiculopathy.

Private provider · independent opinion
Spinal range of motion measurements during and between flares

Examination documenting lumbar or cervical range of motion in degrees, including measurements taken during flare periods where possible to reflect true functional limitation.

Private provider · independent opinion
02

Treating physician

0 of 1 collected
Documentation of incapacitating episodes (frequency, duration, bed rest required)Critical

Medical records and personal logs documenting episodes requiring prescribed bed rest or hospitalization. VA rates IVDS under DC 5243 based on total weeks of incapacitating episodes per year -- this documentation drives the rating.

Your treating provider · written request
03

Treatment records

0 of 1 collected
MRI of spine documenting disc herniation, bulge, or protrusionCritical

MRI findings confirming disc pathology including herniation, protrusion, extrusion, annular fissure, or foraminal/central stenosis contributing to nerve root or cord compression.

VA or private records · written request
04

Lay statements

0 of 2 collected
Buddy statement from spouse, family, or fellow service member

A written statement from someone who can describe observable symptoms and how your condition affects daily life.

You or a witness · VA Form 21-4138 or 21-10210How to get this →
Personal statement describing symptoms and functional impact

Your own written account of how this condition affects your daily activities, work, and relationships. Describe your worst days.

You or a witness · VA Form 21-4138 or 21-10210How to get this →
05

Benefits questionnaire

0 of 1 collected
Completed DBQ Back (Thoracolumbar Spine) ConditionsCritical

Standardized form capturing IVDS diagnosis, incapacitating episode history, spinal range of motion, and neurological findings.

Provider-completed · VA DBQ formHow to get this →
06

Service records

0 of 1 collected
Service treatment records (STRs)Critical

Military medical records showing in-service treatment, complaints, or injuries related to this condition.

NPRC / milConnect · SF-180
Condition guideRating criteria and what VA looks forC&P exam prepWhat the examiner will askBuddy statement builderGuided VA Form 21-10210

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