What Is Lumbosacral Strain?
Lumbar strain VA disability claims are among the most common back-related filings submitted by veterans. Years of physically demanding service—lifting gear, enduring jolting rides, or repetitive movements—can leave lasting damage to the lower back. If you’re a veteran suffering from lower back pain due to lumbar strain, you may be entitled to VA compensation.
At Chad Barr Law, we help veterans fight back when their claims are denied or when their disability ratings fail to reflect the true impact of their condition.
What Is Lumbar Strain and How Does It Affect VA Disability Claims?
Lumbar strain—also called lumbosacral strain—refers to a muscle or tendon injury in the lower back. For veterans, this injury often stems from the repetitive wear and tear of service, including carrying equipment, prolonged standing, or traumatic incidents.
Common symptoms include:
Persistent or sharp lower back pain
Muscle spasms and tightness
Limited flexibility or stiffness
Pain during movement, sitting, or standing
Radiating nerve pain (radiculopathy)
These symptoms can interfere with daily activities and employment, making it critical for veterans to pursue lumbar strain VA disability benefits if the condition is service-connected.
VA Ratings for Lumbar Strain VA Disability
The VA disability rating for lumbar strain is determined using Diagnostic Code 5237 under the General Rating Formula for Diseases and Injuries of the Spine. Ratings are based on range of motion, pain, and functional impairment.
10%: Minor range-of-motion loss or pain with minimal functional impact
20%: Moderate range limitation, muscle spasms, or functional limitation
40% or higher: Severe limitation, including stiffness (ankylosis) of the spine
VA ratings for lumbar strain can be increased if the condition worsens or leads to additional impairments like nerve damage or inability to work.
Proving Service Connection in a Lumbar Strain VA Disability Claim
To receive VA benefits for lumbar strain, a veteran must show that their back injury is service-connected. This requires three key elements:
A current diagnosis of lumbar strain
Evidence of an in-service event or injury (e.g., lifting injury, fall, physical strain)
A medical nexus linking your current condition to your military service
Lay statements, buddy letters, and consistent medical documentation can strengthen your claim.
C&P Exams and Lumbar Strain VA Disability Ratings
A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam is a vital step in any lumbar strain VA disability claim. During this exam, the VA examiner will assess:
Spinal range of motion using a goniometer
Pain levels and muscle tightness
Neurological issues like radiculopathy or sciatica
How the condition limits your ability to work or function
Be honest and specific about how your lumbar strain affects your daily life and employment. These details directly impact your VA rating.
Here is the Disability Benefits Questionnaire for BACK (THORACOLUMBAR SPINE) conditions.
Secondary Conditions Linked to Lumbar Strain VA Disability
Lumbar strain doesn’t just stop at back pain—it can cause or aggravate other disabling conditions that may qualify for additional compensation:
Radiculopathy – Nerve pain, numbness, or weakness in the legs
Sciatica – Pain radiating down the leg due to lumbar nerve compression
Degenerative Disc Disease – Progressive disc deterioration caused by spinal strain
Mental health conditions – Chronic pain may contribute to anxiety or depression
If your lumbar strain has caused or worsened these secondary conditions, they should be included in your claim or appeal for a higher combined rating.
Lumbar Strain VA Disability and TDIU
For veterans whose lumbar strain VA disability prevents them from maintaining gainful employment, Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU) may be available.
TDIU allows qualified veterans to receive benefits at the 100% compensation rate—even if their actual combined rating is below 100%. To qualify, you must demonstrate that your lumbar strain and any related conditions make it impossible to work consistently.
TDIU for Veterans
Appealing a Denied Lumbar Strain VA Disability Claim
It’s not uncommon for veterans to receive low ratings or outright denials for lumbar strain claims. Reasons may include:
Lack of a formal nexus opinion
Incomplete service or medical records
Mischaracterization of severity at a C&P exam
At Chad Barr Law, we assist veterans with denied claims or appeals by:
Reviewing your rating decision and service history
Gathering additional medical evidence or expert opinions
Strengthening your case for secondary conditions
Advocating for an increased rating or TDIU benefits
Contact Chad Barr Law for Help With Your Lumbar Strain VA Disability Appeal
If you believe your lumbar strain has been underrated or unfairly denied, don’t settle. You fought for your country—now let us fight for the benefits you deserve.
Schedule a free consultation with Chad Barr Law to review your case and discuss the next steps in your VA appeal or rating increase.
Related Blogs:
VA Ratings for Degenerative Disc Disease
VA Disability Ratings for Back Pain
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average VA rating for lumbar strain?
Most veterans receive a 10% to 20% rating. However, severe cases involving limited mobility or secondary conditions can be rated higher.
Can I receive a separate rating for radiculopathy with lumbar strain?
Yes. Radiculopathy is rated separately based on severity and may increase your overall disability rating.
What if my VA claim for lumbar strain was denied?
You have the right to appeal. An experienced VA disability attorney can help you gather evidence, secure medical opinions, and fight for the proper rating.
