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Evidence checklist

Scoliosis

DC 5299-523738 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 2 collected
Orthopedic evaluation with spinal curvature and range of motion assessmentCritical

Examination documenting thoracic or lumbar curvature, any rib hump (Adam's forward bend test), spinal range of motion in degrees, and any associated pain or neurological symptoms.

Private provider · independent opinion
Nexus opinion linking scoliosis to service ("at least as likely as not")Critical

A medical opinion connecting your scoliosis to military service, or establishing that service significantly aggravated a pre-existing scoliosis beyond its natural progression.

Private provider · independent opinion
02

Treatment records

0 of 3 collected
Full-length standing spine X-ray with Cobb angle measurementCritical

Posteroanterior standing scoliosis series documenting the Cobb angle (severity of curvature), curve type and location, and any vertebral rotation. VA rates scoliosis under the spine schedule based on motion limitation, not Cobb angle alone.

VA or private records · written request
Documentation of pain, functional limitations, and flare-ups

Records documenting back pain, fatigue from compensatory muscle use, limitations in prolonged standing or sitting, and DeLuca factors affecting daily activities.

VA or private records · written request
Treatment records (physical therapy, bracing, surgery)

Records documenting scoliosis brace use, spinal stabilization physical therapy, and any surgical intervention (spinal instrumentation and fusion).

VA or private records · written request
03

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 →
04

Benefits questionnaire

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

Standardized form capturing spinal range of motion, curvature findings, pain, and functional limitations.

Provider-completed · VA DBQ formHow to get this →
05

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

What you mark here is saved in this browser, on this device only — not to an account. Changing the target rating shows different items, but never loses what you have already marked.