Exposed Vet Productions: Cervical Spine: Breaking Down the DBQ

The cervical spine DBQ process has undergone significant improvements, providing clearer guidelines for examiners and potentially better outcomes for veterans with neck conditions.

• Cervical spine anatomy includes vertebrae, discs, and nerve roots that can be compressed through injury or degeneration
• Recent improvements to the DBQ require examiners to document when pain begins during range of motion testing, not just maximum movement
• Veterans should be rated based on where pain starts—verbalize when you feel pain during the exam by saying "ouch"
• Physical therapy records during flare-ups provide valuable evidence for claims and appeals
• Bring your own imaging (X-rays, MRIs, CT scans) and nerve conduction studies to C&P exams
• Submit a separate statement in support of claim for each condition being evaluated
• Radiculopathy (nerve involvement) symptoms should be documented including location, severity, and quality of pain, numbness, or tingling
• Examiners are now instructed to use clinical judgment and consider veterans' subjective reports

For assistance with independent medical opinions or disability evaluations, contact Valor 4 Vet or text our team at 888-448-1011. 

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