The Veteran's initial ratings for chronic low back pain with spondylolisthesis of L5 and intermittent sciatica were increased to 40 percent effective June 20, 2013. The Veteran's initial rating for migraine headaches was not increased.
The deciding factor: Effective June 20, 2013, the Veteran's chronic low back pain with spondylolisthesis of L5 and intermittent sciatica is manifested by forward flexion limited to 50 degrees, weekly muscle spasms, and an altered gait. This meets the criteria for a 40 percent rating under Diagnostic Code 5237.
- Claimed conditions
- Chronic low back pain with spondylolisthesis of L5 and intermittent sciatica
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating
- Not verified here — check the original decision
- Decision date
- February 27, 2014
- Citation
- 1408583
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. Read the original VA decision (opens in a new tab) using citation 1408583.
What this means for you
A final Board denial may be appealed to the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims, generally within 120 days of the Board mailing date. A Supplemental Claim with new and relevant evidence is a separate option. Another Higher-Level Review of the Board decision is not available. Check your own notice: this historical decision does not set your deadline.
What you can do next
Use your own notice and decision stage. A remanded issue is not a final court-appealable denial. VA review guidance and CAVC filing instructions (U.S. federal; reviewed October 7, 2026).
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