Vertebral fractures
History of vertebral fractures
What This Code Means
Receiving DQ code D227.41 means the DoDMERB physician reviewer determined that your medical history or exam findings related to vertebral fractures do not currently meet Department of Defense accession standards as defined in DoDI 6130.03.
This does not end your candidacy. Many conditions flagged under this code are waiverable. The next step is understanding the exact standard that applies to your situation and whether a waiver request is appropriate for your commissioning source.
Official Regulation Text
From DoDI 6130.03-V1, “Medical Standards for Military Service,” Change 6 (February 3, 2026)
“History of vertebral fractures: (1) Current compression fracture, or history of compression fracture within the last 12 months, or with residual deformity. (2) History of burst fracture. (3) History of fracture-dislocation. (4) History of any other vertebral fracture within the last 12 months or with complications.”
“History of congenital fusion or failure of segmentation involving more than 2 vertebral bodies. Current congenital fusion or failure of segmentation involving any number of vertebral bodies with demonstrable abnormality.”
“Current or history of vertebral dislocation or subluxation.”
“History of spinal dysraphisms, including, but not limited to, spina bifida, meningocele, or myelomeningocele, unless the condition is asymptomatic and the defect involves fewer than 2 vertebral levels.”
“History of ankylosing spondylitis or other inflammatory spondylopathy.”
Waiver Outlook for Musculoskeletal Conditions
Key Factors for Waiver Approval
- Documentation of full rehabilitation, strength, and agility
- No recurrent dislocations or chronic pain
- Full range of motion confirmed by orthopedic evaluation
- Active participation in competitive sports post-recovery
For scoliosis cases, the key threshold is the Cobb angle measurement. Having your own imaging and specialist evaluation ready — rather than relying solely on DoDMERB's assessment — can strengthen your case.
This condition is covered in depth in The Ultimate DoDMERB Handbook by LTC Kirkland & Capt Dach — including real success scenarios, remedial exam strategies, and the complete waiver playbook. Get the handbook →
Read Our Full Guide on Musculoskeletal Conditions
Learn how DoDMERB evaluates musculoskeletal conditions, common waiver scenarios, documentation tips, and what to expect throughout the process.
Read the musculoskeletal guide