The Veteran's claim for a higher rating for spondylolisthesis at L5-S1 with fusion before July 2, 2010 was denied as the evidence did not show limitation of motion to less than 30 degrees or favorable ankylosis.
The deciding factor: The VA examinations showed no limitation of forward flexion to 30 degrees or less and no unfavorable ankylosis. The Veteran's symptoms were primarily related to pain, which does not meet the criteria for a higher rating under the General Rating Formula.
- Claimed conditions
- spondylolisthesis at L5-S1
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 20%
- Decision date
- July 31, 2014
- Citation
- 1434228
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 1434228.
What this means for you
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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 service-connected spondylolisthesis at L5-S1 with persistent back pain from February 12, 2020 is denied. The case has been remanded due to issues related to TDIU.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has reopened the Veteran's claims for service connection for various conditions, but has remanded them for further development and consideration.
- Granted
The Board has determined that the Veteran's current lumbar spine disability, including degenerative disc disease and spondylolisthesis at L5-S1, is presumed to be related to service due to continuity of symptoms since service. The appeal for service connection is granted.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Veteran's claim for service connection for bilateral hearing loss has been reopened, and he is now entitled to a disability rating of 20 percent for his spondylolisthesis at L5-S1. His right lower extremity radiculopathy also warrants a 40 percent disability rating. However, the TDIU claim was denied as the Veteran's service-connected conditions do not render him unable to secure or follow a substantially gainful occupation.
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