Broken or displaced vertebra from trauma or pathological process (osteoporosis, cancer). Compression fractures most common. May cause acute or chronic pain, deformity, neurological deficit if spinal cord or nerves compressed. Treatment ranges from conservative to surgical stabilization depending on stability and neurological involvement.
Fracture with complete or near-complete paralysis (evaluate as spinal cord injury)
Fracture with moderate neurological deficit (incomplete paralysis, radiculopathy), or severe chronic pain
Unstable fracture requiring surgical stabilization, or healed fracture with significant pain and marked limitation of motion
Healed fracture with moderate residual pain and some limitation of spinal motion, or mild neurological symptoms
Healed stable compression fracture with minimal pain and no neurological deficit
Medical Evidence
Current diagnosis from a qualified healthcare provider, medical records documenting symptoms and treatment history
Service Connection
Evidence linking your condition to military service (service treatment records, incident reports, or nexus letter)
Personal Statement
Your detailed account of how vertebral fracture or dislocation affects your daily life and when symptoms began
Lay Evidence
Buddy letters from fellow service members or family who can corroborate your symptoms
During your Compensation & Pension exam for vertebral fracture or dislocation, examiners will assess your symptoms against the rating criteria above.
Be specific: Describe your worst day, not your average day
Document everything: Bring copies of all medical records and evidence
Functional impact: Explain how symptoms affect work, sleep, and daily activities
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