C&P Exam Prep: Lumbar Spine Exam

Preparing for Your VA Lumbar Spine C&P Exam | What Veterans Need to Know

This episode walks you through the lumbosacral spine compensation and pension exam step by step. Learn how to translate your lower back pain and limitations into the specific language the VA uses to determine your disability rating.

What We Cover:

• Understanding the exam – How the DBQ works and why it's designed to capture your worst days
• Anatomy basics – How your L1-L5 vertebrae, discs, and nerves connect to symptoms in your legs and feet
• Building your evidence – MRIs, X-rays, EMG nerve studies, and why PT records matter
• The interview – How to describe your history, flare-ups, and real-world limitations
• The physical exam – What to expect with palpation, strength tests, reflexes, and the straight leg raise
• The stop-at-pain rule – Why you say "ouch" the moment pain begins, not when you physically can't move anymore
• IVDS and incapacitating episodes – How bed rest criteria affect your rating
• Nerve damage ratings – How sciatic nerve issues are rated separately from your spine

Resources mentioned: VA Form 21-4138 (Statement in Support of Claim)

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