musculoskeletalDC 5239

Spondylolisthesis

Spondylolisthesis occurs when one vertebra slips forward over the vertebra below it. Spondylolysis (a stress fracture in the vertebra) can lead to spondylolisthesis. Under the VA (DC 5239), this condition is rated on the same thoracolumbar or cervical spine ROM table as other spine conditions. The specific diagnosis matters less than how much it limits the veteran's range of motion. Multiple spine conditions affecting the same section result in only one rating for that section.

VA Rating Levels

10%

Forward flexion more than 60 degrees but no more than 85 degrees (thoracolumbar), or combined ROM between 125 and 240 degrees. Also muscle spasm or guarding NOT resulting in abnormal gait.

20%

Forward flexion more than 30 degrees but no more than 60 degrees (thoracolumbar), or combined ROM of 120 degrees or less. Also muscle spasm or guarding causing abnormal gait, or abnormal spinal contour.

40%

Forward flexion 30 degrees or less, or thoracolumbar spine frozen in a favorable position.

50%

Entire thoracolumbar spine frozen in an unfavorable position.

100%

Entire spine frozen in an unfavorable position.

Exam Tips & Key Evidence

→The specific diagnosis (spondylolisthesis vs. strain vs. DDD) generally does not change how the VA rates spine conditions. The focus is on ROM limitation.
→Radiculopathy is a common secondary condition. If the slipped vertebra compresses nerve roots causing pain, numbness, or weakness in the legs, claim these as separate secondary conditions.
→The examiner must consider flare-ups when measuring ROM.
→Pain with motion alone warrants at least a 10% rating.
→If this condition also qualifies as IVDS, compare the incapacitating episode-based rating with the ROM-based rating and pursue whichever is higher.

Commonly Related Conditions

Thoracolumbar Spine (Lower and Mid Back)Lumbosacral Strain Intervertebral Disc Syndrome (IVDS)Spinal Stenosis Radiculopathy - Lower Extremities (Lumbar)

38 CFR Reference

38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5239