The VA denied an increased evaluation for the veteran's service-connected spondylolisthesis, L5-S1, currently rated at 10 percent. The evidence showed that prior to September 26, 2003, the disability was characterized by pain on motion; however, as of September 26, 2003, it included decreased range of motion and localized tenderness not resulting in abnormal gait.
The deciding factor: The veteran's symptoms did not meet the criteria for a higher evaluation under the revised spine rating criteria effective September 26, 2003.
- Claimed conditions
- spondylolisthesis, L5-S1
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 10%
- Decision date
- April 13, 2005
- Citation
- 0510633
This is a plain-language summary generated by AI from a public Board of Veterans’ Appeals decision. It can contain errors — always verify against the original. Look up the original decision on VA.gov (opens in a new tab) using citation 0510633.
What this means for you
A denial is a starting point, not the end of the road. You can see why this claim fell short — and, if you are still inside the one-year window, the appeal lanes that may remain open to you.
What you can do next
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has decided to remand the claims for further evaluation due to a lack of adequate examination and duty to assist errors.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has decided to remand the case due to insufficient medical evidence on whether the Veteran's spondylolisthesis, L5-S1, is caused by or aggravated by his in-service forklift injury.
- Granted
The Veteran's claim for a higher rating for his lumbar spine disability was granted, with an evaluation of 40 percent. Service connection for radiculopathy of the left lower extremity associated with his lumbar spine disability was also granted.
- Granted
The Veteran meets the schedular requirement for TDIU due to his service-connected disabilities, which render him unemployable.
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