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Evidence checklist

Spinal Stenosis

DC 523838 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 4 collected
Neurological evaluation documenting stenosis symptoms and neurological deficitsCritical

Examination documenting neurogenic claudication (leg pain/weakness with walking relieved by sitting), sensory deficits, weakness, reflex changes, and how far you can walk before symptoms occur.

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

A medical opinion connecting your spinal stenosis to in-service injury, degenerative changes from military duties, or a service-connected disc condition that progressed to stenosis.

Private provider · independent opinion
Spinal range of motion measurementsCritical

Examination documenting lumbar or cervical range of motion in degrees, as VA rates the spine primarily on forward flexion and other motion measurements under 38 CFR 4.71a.

Private provider · independent opinion
Documentation of radiculopathy (separate ratings for nerve involvement)

Records documenting which nerve roots are involved and the severity of motor and sensory deficits, which may support separate ratings for associated radiculopathy in the extremities.

Private provider · independent opinion
02

Treatment records

0 of 2 collected
MRI documenting degree of spinal canal or foraminal stenosisCritical

MRI findings quantifying the degree of central canal stenosis, lateral recess narrowing, or foraminal stenosis, and identifying the levels affected and any cord or nerve root compression.

VA or private records · written request
Treatment records (epidural injections, physical therapy, surgical decompression)

Records documenting epidural steroid injections, laminectomy or laminotomy, spinal fusion, physical therapy, and response to treatment.

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, stenosis diagnosis, neurological findings, 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
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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