Spondylolisthesis

DC 5239Musculoskeletal38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5239

A condition where one vertebra slips forward over the one below it, often due to a stress fracture (spondylolysis) or degenerative changes. This causes lower back pain, stiffness, and sometimes nerve compression. The VA rates spondylolisthesis under the General Rating Formula for Diseases and Injuries of the Spine based on limitation of spinal motion.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on objective clinical measurements and test results. The examiner will use standardized tests or lab values to determine the severity of your condition rather than relying primarily on subjective symptom reports.

Diagnostic code

DC 5239

Rating range

10% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5239. This guide presents a plain-language summary and is not a substitute for the full regulatory text. Always consult a VSO or VA-accredited attorney for case-specific advice.

Rating Levels

You have unfavorable ankylosis of the entire spine due to spondylolisthesis and its surgical treatment or complications.

What the VA looks for

Unfavorable ankylosis of entire spine documented
Complete loss of spinal mobility from cervical through lumbar
Total inability to flex, extend, or rotate the spine
Significant impairment of respiratory function from spinal rigidity

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting standing X-rays — spondylolisthesis is best visualized on standing lateral X-rays or flexion/extension views, which show the degree of vertebral slippage. Supine imaging may underestimate the slip.
⚠Overlooking associated radiculopathy — the slipped vertebra often compresses nerve roots. Document any leg pain, numbness, or weakness and claim it separately.
⚠Not connecting the condition to service — if you had physically demanding duties (infantry, airborne, heavy equipment), document how repetitive stress or injury caused or aggravated the spondylolysis that led to the listhesis.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Back (Thoracolumbar Spine) Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

Understand what the VA looks for at each rating level — loading conditions…

Spondylolisthesis

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 5239

Rating range

10% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have unfavorable ankylosis of the entire spine due to spondylolisthesis and its surgical treatment or complications.

What the VA looks for

Unfavorable ankylosis of entire spine documented
Complete loss of spinal mobility from cervical through lumbar
Total inability to flex, extend, or rotate the spine
Significant impairment of respiratory function from spinal rigidity

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting standing X-rays — spondylolisthesis is best visualized on standing lateral X-rays or flexion/extension views, which show the degree of vertebral slippage. Supine imaging may underestimate the slip.

⚠Overlooking associated radiculopathy — the slipped vertebra often compresses nerve roots. Document any leg pain, numbness, or weakness and claim it separately.

⚠Not connecting the condition to service — if you had physically demanding duties (infantry, airborne, heavy equipment), document how repetitive stress or injury caused or aggravated the spondylolysis that led to the listhesis.