Reviewed by Jonathan Teplitsky · Updated June 2026
How does the VA rate a bulging disc?
The VA rates a bulging or herniated disc under 38 CFR § 4.71a, the same section it uses for all spine conditions. It scores your disc two different ways - the General Rating Formula for the Spine (based on how far your spine bends) and the Formula for Intervertebral Disc Syndrome, or IVDS (based on doctor-ordered bed rest). The VA then assigns whichever rating is higher. Most veterans with a single disc bulge land between 10% and 40%. You may also qualify for a separate rating for nerve pain, which is added on top.
The General Spine Formula (range of motion)
This formula looks at how far your lower back bends forward (forward flexion) and your combined range of motion. An examiner measures these with a goniometer at your C&P exam. Lower numbers mean a higher rating.
| Rating | Criteria (thoracolumbar spine) |
|---|---|
| 10% | Forward flexion 60-85°, or combined range of motion 120-235°. |
| 20% | Forward flexion 30-60°, or combined range of motion 120° or less, or muscle spasm/guarding causing abnormal gait or spinal contour. |
| 40% | Forward flexion 30° or less, or favorable ankylosis of the entire thoracolumbar spine. |
| 50% | Unfavorable ankylosis of the entire thoracolumbar spine. |
| 100% | Unfavorable ankylosis of the entire spine. |
The IVDS Formula (incapacitating episodes)
The second path counts incapacitating episodes - periods of physician-prescribed bed rest - over the past 12 months. This is rated under DC 5243. Only bed rest a doctor actually ordered in your records counts.
| Rating | Total bed rest in past 12 months |
|---|---|
| 10% | At least 1 week but less than 2 weeks. |
| 20% | At least 2 weeks but less than 4 weeks. |
| 40% | At least 4 weeks but less than 6 weeks. |
| 60% | At least 6 weeks. |
The VA runs both tables and gives you the higher number. If your bed rest adds up to 6 weeks, IVDS gives you 60% - more than most range-of-motion scores. If you barely lose motion but have severe episodes, IVDS may win. If you have stiffness but no bed rest, the General Formula wins.
Radiculopathy is rated separately - and added
This is the point most veterans miss. When a disc presses on a nerve, the pain, numbness, or weakness that shoots into your leg is called radiculopathy. The VA rates radiculopathy separately under DC 8520 (sciatic nerve) and adds it to your spine rating. It is not part of the disc rating itself.
That means a veteran with a 20% spine rating plus 20% radiculopathy in each leg can combine to a much higher total. If your decision letter rated only the disc and ignored leg symptoms, you may be leaving points on the table. Read our full guide to lower-extremity radiculopathy to see how the nerve ratings work.
How a bulging disc differs from related conditions
The VA treats these as distinct injuries, even though they all use 38 CFR § 4.71a:
- Bulging or herniated disc - an acute, specific disc injury, usually confirmed on an MRI. That is this page.
- Degenerative disc disease - gradual, age-related wear across multiple discs over years. See degenerative disc disease.
- Lumbar spine strain - a soft-tissue muscle and ligament injury, not a disc problem. See lumbar spine strain.
Filing the right condition matters. A disc bulge documented on imaging is harder for the VA to deny than a strain, and it opens the IVDS bed-rest path that a strain alone does not.
Evidence that wins a disc claim
Build your file around four things:
- MRI showing the disc bulge or herniation and the level (for example, L5-S1).
- Range-of-motion measurements taken with a goniometer.
- Records of incapacitating episodes - doctor's notes ordering bed rest, with dates.
- Neurological findings - reflex, strength, and sensation tests showing nerve involvement.
If your disc traces to an in-service event, a nexus letter tying the injury to your service is strong support.
How to file and what to expect at the C&P exam
File your claim and list both the disc and any leg symptoms. The VA will schedule a Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam. The examiner measures your forward flexion and combined motion, checks reflexes and strength for nerve damage, and reviews any prescribed bed rest. Their report drives your rating, so describe your worst days honestly. You can estimate your combined number with our VA disability rating calculator before you file.
Quick answers
Will the VA always use the higher of the two formulas?
Yes. The VA must calculate your disc under both the General Spine Formula and the IVDS formula and assign whichever gives the higher rating.
Does a bulging disc and a herniated disc rate the same?
Yes. Both are rated under 38 CFR § 4.71a using the same two formulas. The label does not change the math.
Can I get more than 40% for one disc?
The spine alone can rate higher for ankylosis, and adding separate radiculopathy ratings for each affected leg can push your combined rating well past 40%.
What if my MRI shows a bulge but I have no bed rest?
Then the VA rates you under the General Spine Formula on range of motion. The IVDS bed-rest path simply will not apply.
Where do I find the exact rules?
The full criteria are in 38 CFR § 4.71a on the eCFR site.