The veteran's postoperative low back disability, resulting from spondylolysis at L5 with laminectomy and spinal fusion, is currently rated as 20 percent disabling. The evidence does not support a higher evaluation due to moderate limitation of motion.
The deciding factor: The VA examination reports did not show severe limitation of motion or ankylosis of the thoracolumbar spine, which are required for a higher rating under the current schedular criteria.
- Claimed conditions
- Spondylolysis, Laminectomy, Spinal Fusion
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 20%
- Decision date
- October 26, 2006
- Citation
- 0633137
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 0633137.
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 Veteran's claim for a higher rating for his lumbar spine disability was denied. The Board found that the evidence did not meet the criteria for a rating in excess of 20 percent, as there was no forward flexion limited to 30 degrees or less and no ankylosis. The case is remanded due to other issues.
- Granted
The Board has determined that the Veteran's current low back disability, including spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis at L5-S1, is due to his active service. The evidence shows a pre-existing condition without aggravation during service.
- Dismissed
The Board has dismissed the Veteran's appeals for increased ratings on lumbosacral strain, right sciatica, and major depressive disorder (including PTSD) as they are part of an active legacy appeal. The issues have not been withdrawn.
- Granted
The Board granted service connection for obstructive sleep apnea, effective from the date of the February 2025 rating decision.
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