VASRD 5239 · Musculoskeletal System – Spine

Spondylolisthesis or Segmental Instability VA Disability Rating

Spondylolisthesis is when one vertebra slips forward over another, often causing back pain and nerve compression.

VA Rating Tiers

RatingCriteria
100%Spinal segments have shifted badly and fused, causing severe dysfunction.
40%Severe instability and stiffness in spine limiting movement.
20%Moderate instability that limits bending and turning.
10%Back instability that causes mild discomfort or limited movement.

How the VA Evaluates Spondylolisthesis or Segmental Instability

Spine X-rays, MRI, or flexion-extension views documenting vertebral slippage or instability.

Approval rate

Moderate – higher with imaging and neuro symptoms.

Annual service-connected

11,100 veterans

Average rating

30%

Best Evidence to Gather

  • •Flexion-extension spinal X-rays
  • •MRI or CT showing slippage
  • •ROM testing and nerve assessments
  • •Personal statements describing flare-ups

Strategy Tips

  • •Use dynamic spine imaging (flexion-extension)
  • •Describe activities limited by instability
  • •Mention neurologic signs like tingling or weakness

C&P Exam Pitfalls

  • •Not providing imaging of segmental movement
  • •Overlapping diagnosis with general back pain
  • •Lack of detail about nerve symptoms

Common Filing Mistakes

  • •No proof of vertebral instability
  • •Incomplete ROM or neurologic documentation
  • •Submitting under general low back pain

Onset Patterns

  • •Often develops from trauma, degeneration, or repetitive stress
  • •May present with sudden back pain or radiating leg symptoms

Secondary Conditions

Conditions commonly linked to Spondylolisthesis or Segmental Instability. Service-connecting a secondary condition can increase your combined rating.

  • Radiculopathy

    Shifting vertebrae often pinch spinal nerves.

  • Chronic Pain Syndrome

    Instability leads to long-term musculoskeletal stress.

Common questions about Spondylolisthesis or Segmental Instability

Is Spondylolisthesis or Segmental Instability a VA-rated disability?
Yes. The VA rates Spondylolisthesis or Segmental Instability under VASRD diagnostic code 5239 (Musculoskeletal System – Spine). Spondylolisthesis is when one vertebra slips forward over another, often causing back pain and nerve compression.
What VA disability rating can I get for Spondylolisthesis or Segmental Instability?
Possible VA ratings for Spondylolisthesis or Segmental Instability are 100%, 40%, 20%, 10%. Examples: 100% — Spinal segments have shifted badly and fused, causing severe dysfunction.; 40% — Severe instability and stiffness in spine limiting movement.; 20% — Moderate instability that limits bending and turning..
What's the typical VA rating awarded for Spondylolisthesis or Segmental Instability?
The average awarded rating for Spondylolisthesis or Segmental Instability is 30%. Roughly 11,100 veterans are service-connected for Spondylolisthesis or Segmental Instability each year. Typical approval likelihood: Moderate – higher with imaging and neuro symptoms..
What evidence helps prove Spondylolisthesis or Segmental Instability for VA disability?
Strong evidence for a Spondylolisthesis or Segmental Instability claim includes: Flexion-extension spinal X-rays; MRI or CT showing slippage; ROM testing and nerve assessments; Personal statements describing flare-ups.
What mistakes should veterans avoid when claiming Spondylolisthesis or Segmental Instability?
Common pitfalls when filing for Spondylolisthesis or Segmental Instability: No proof of vertebral instability; Incomplete ROM or neurologic documentation; Submitting under general low back pain.
What conditions are commonly secondary to Spondylolisthesis or Segmental Instability?
Conditions often service-connected as secondary to Spondylolisthesis or Segmental Instability include: Radiculopathy, Chronic Pain Syndrome. Filing for secondary conditions can increase a veteran's combined VA rating.

Estimate your combined rating

See how Spondylolisthesis or Segmental Instability combines with your other service-connected conditions using the official VA combined-ratings formula.

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