# musculoskeletal system Aggregated by Superinsight from public-domain sources, as of 2026-08-27. Domain: va. --- ## DC 5000 — Osteomyelitis, acute, subacute, or chronic · Acute, Subacute, or Chronic Diseases {#5000} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5000* Official source: 5000 Osteomyelitis, acute, subacute, or chronic: Of the pelvis, vertebrae, or extending into major joints, or with multiple localization or with long history of intractability and debility, anemia, amyloid liver changes, or other continuous constitutional symptoms — 100 percent. Frequent episodes, with constitutional symptoms — 60 percent. With definite involucrum or sequestrum, with or without discharging sinus — 30 percent. With discharging sinus or other evidence of active infection within the past 5 years — 20 percent. Inactive, following repeated episodes, without evidence of active infection in past 5 years — 10 percent. Note (1): A rating of 10 percent, as an exception to the amputation rule, is to be assigned in any case of active osteomyelitis where the amputation rating for the affected part is no percent. This 10 percent rating and the other partial ratings of 30 percent or less are to be combined with ratings for ankylosis, limited motion, nonunion or malunion, shortening, etc., subject, of course, to the amputation rule. The 60 percent rating, as it is based on constitutional symptoms, is not subject to the amputation rule. A rating for osteomyelitis will not be applied following cure by removal or radical resection of the affected bone. Note (2): The 20 percent rating on the basis of activity within the past 5 years is not assignable following the initial infection of active osteomyelitis with no subsequent reactivation. The prerequisite for this historical rating is an established recurrent osteomyelitis. To qualify for the 10 percent rating, 2 or more episodes following the initial infection are required. This 20 percent rating or the 10 percent rating, when applicable, will be assigned once only to cover disability at all sites of previously active infection with a future ending date in the case of the 20 percent rating. --- ## DC 5001 — Bones and joints, tuberculosis of, active or inactive · Acute, Subacute, or Chronic Diseases {#5001} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5001* Official source: 5001 Bones and joints, tuberculosis of, active or inactive: Active — 100 percent. Inactive: See §§ 4.88c and 4.89 --- ## DC 5002 — Multi-joint arthritis (except post-traumatic and gout), 2 or more joints, as an active process · Acute, Subacute, or Chronic Diseases {#5002} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5002* Official source: 5002 Multi-joint arthritis (except post-traumatic and gout), 2 or more joints, as an active process: With constitutional manifestations associated with active joint involvement, totally incapacitating — 100 percent. Less than criteria for 100% but with weight loss and anemia productive of severe impairment of health or severely incapacitating exacerbations occurring 4 or more times a year or a lesser number over prolonged periods — 60 percent. Symptom combinations productive of definite impairment of health objectively supported by examination findings or incapacitating exacerbations occurring 3 or more times a year — 40 percent. One or two exacerbations a year in a well-established diagnosis — 20 percent. Note (1): Examples of conditions rated using this diagnostic code include, but are not limited to, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and spondyloarthropathies. Note (2): For chronic residuals, rate under diagnostic code 5003. Note (3): The ratings for the active process will not be combined with the residual ratings for limitation of motion, ankylosis, or diagnostic code 5003. Instead, assign the higher evaluation. --- ## DC 5003 — Degenerative arthritis, other than post-traumatic · Acute, Subacute, or Chronic Diseases {#5003} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5003* Official source: 5003 Degenerative arthritis, other than post-traumatic: Degenerative arthritis established by X-ray findings will be rated on the basis of limitation of motion under the appropriate diagnostic codes for the specific joint or joints involved (DC 5200 etc.). When however, the limitation of motion of the specific joint or joints involved is noncompensable under the appropriate diagnostic codes, a rating of 10 pct is for application for each such major joint or group of minor joints affected by limitation of motion, to be combined, not added under diagnostic code 5003. Limitation of motion must be objectively confirmed by findings such as swelling, muscle spasm, or satisfactory evidence of painful motion. In the absence of limitation of motion, rate as below: With X-ray evidence of involvement of 2 or more major joints or 2 or more minor joint groups, with occasional incapacitating exacerbations — 20 percent. With X-ray evidence of involvement of 2 or more major joints or 2 or more minor joint groups — 10 percent. Note (1): The 20 pct and 10 pct ratings based on X-ray findings, above, will not be combined with ratings based on limitation of motion. Note (2): The 20 pct and 10 pct ratings based on X-ray findings, above, will not be utilized in rating conditions listed under diagnostic codes 5013 to 5024, inclusive. --- ## DC 5004 — Arthritis, gonorrheal · Acute, Subacute, or Chronic Diseases {#5004} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5004* Official source: 5004 Arthritis, gonorrheal. --- ## DC 5005 — Arthritis, pneumococcic · Acute, Subacute, or Chronic Diseases {#5005} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5005* Official source: 5005 Arthritis, pneumococcic. --- ## DC 5006 — Arthritis, typhoid · Acute, Subacute, or Chronic Diseases {#5006} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5006* Official source: 5006 Arthritis, typhoid. --- ## DC 5007 — Arthritis, syphilitic · Acute, Subacute, or Chronic Diseases {#5007} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5007* Official source: 5007 Arthritis, syphilitic. --- ## DC 5008 — Arthritis, streptococcic · Acute, Subacute, or Chronic Diseases {#5008} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5008* Official source: 5008 Arthritis, streptococcic. --- ## DC 5009 — Other specified forms of arthropathy (excluding gout) · Acute, Subacute, or Chronic Diseases {#5009} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5009* Official source: 5009 Other specified forms of arthropathy (excluding gout). Note (1): Other specified forms of arthropathy include, but are not limited to, Charcot neuropathic, hypertrophic, crystalline, and other autoimmune arthropathies. Note (2): With the types of arthritis, diagnostic codes 5004 through 5009, rate the acute phase under diagnostic code 5002; rate any chronic residuals under diagnostic code 5003. --- ## DC 5010 — Post-traumatic arthritis: Rate as limitation of motion, dislocation, or other specified instability under the affected joint. If there are 2 or more joints affected, each rating shall be combined in accordance with § 4.25 · Acute, Subacute, or Chronic Diseases {#5010} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5010* Official source: 5010 Post-traumatic arthritis: Rate as limitation of motion, dislocation, or other specified instability under the affected joint. If there are 2 or more joints affected, each rating shall be combined in accordance with § 4.25. --- ## DC 5011 — Decompression illness: Rate manifestations under the appropriate diagnostic code within the affected body system, such as arthritis for musculoskeletal residuals; auditory system for vestibular residuals; respiratory system for pulmonary barotrauma residuals; and neurologic system for cerebrovascular accident residuals · Acute, Subacute, or Chronic Diseases {#5011} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5011* Official source: 5011 Decompression illness: Rate manifestations under the appropriate diagnostic code within the affected body system, such as arthritis for musculoskeletal residuals; auditory system for vestibular residuals; respiratory system for pulmonary barotrauma residuals; and neurologic system for cerebrovascular accident residuals. --- ## DC 5012 — Bones, neoplasm, malignant, primary or secondary · Acute, Subacute, or Chronic Diseases {#5012} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5012* Official source: 5012 Bones, neoplasm, malignant, primary or secondary — 100 percent. Note: The 100 percent rating will be continued for 1 year following the cessation of surgical, X-ray, antineoplastic chemotherapy or other prescribed therapeutic procedure. If there has been no local recurrence or metastases, rate based on residuals. --- ## DC 5013 — Osteoporosis, residuals of · Acute, Subacute, or Chronic Diseases {#5013} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5013* Official source: 5013 Osteoporosis, residuals of. --- ## DC 5014 — Osteomalacia, residuals of · Acute, Subacute, or Chronic Diseases {#5014} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5014* Official source: 5014 Osteomalacia, residuals of. --- ## DC 5015 — Bones, neoplasm, benign · Acute, Subacute, or Chronic Diseases {#5015} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5015* Official source: 5015 Bones, neoplasm, benign. --- ## DC 5016 — Osteitis deformans · Acute, Subacute, or Chronic Diseases {#5016} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5016* Official source: 5016 Osteitis deformans. --- ## DC 5017 — Gout · Acute, Subacute, or Chronic Diseases {#5017} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5017* Official source: 5017 Gout. --- ## DC 5019 — Bursitis · Acute, Subacute, or Chronic Diseases {#5019} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5019* Official source: 5019 Bursitis. --- ## DC 5021 — Myositis · Acute, Subacute, or Chronic Diseases {#5021} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5021* Official source: 5021 Myositis. --- ## DC 5023 — Heterotopic ossification · Acute, Subacute, or Chronic Diseases {#5023} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5023* Official source: 5023 Heterotopic ossification. --- ## DC 5024 — Tenosynovitis, tendinitis, tendinosis or tendinopathy · Acute, Subacute, or Chronic Diseases {#5024} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5024* Official source: 5024 Tenosynovitis, tendinitis, tendinosis or tendinopathy. Note to DCs 5013 through 5024: Evaluate the diseases under diagnostic codes 5013 through 5024 as degenerative arthritis, based on limitation of motion of affected parts. --- ## DC 5025 — Fibromyalgia (fibrositis, primary fibromyalgia syndrome) · Acute, Subacute, or Chronic Diseases {#5025} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5025* Official source: 5025 Fibromyalgia (fibrositis, primary fibromyalgia syndrome) With widespread musculoskeletal pain and tender points, with or without associated fatigue, sleep disturbance, stiffness, paresthesias, headache, irritable bowel symptoms, depression, anxiety, or Raynaud's-like symptoms: That are constant, or nearly so, and refractory to therapy — 40 percent. That are episodic, with exacerbations often precipitated by environmental or emotional stress or by overexertion, but that are present more than one-third of the time — 20 percent. That require continuous medication for control — 10 percent. Note: Widespread pain means pain in both the left and right sides of the body, that is both above and below the waist, and that affects both the axial skeleton (i.e., cervical spine, anterior chest, thoracic spine, or low back) and the extremities. --- ## DC 5051 — Shoulder replacement (prosthesis) · Prosthetic Implants and Resurfacing {#5051} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5051* Official source: 5051 Shoulder replacement (prosthesis). Prosthetic replacement of the shoulder joint: For 1 year following implantation of prosthesis — 100 percent. With chronic residuals consisting of severe, painful motion or weakness in the affected extremity — 50 percent. With intermediate degrees of residual weakness, pain or limitation of motion, rate by analogy to diagnostic codes 5200 and 5203. Minimum rating — 20 percent. --- ## DC 5052 — Elbow replacement (prosthesis) · Prosthetic Implants and Resurfacing {#5052} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5052* Official source: 5052 Elbow replacement (prosthesis). Prosthetic replacement of the elbow joint: For 1 year following implantation of prosthesis — 100 percent. With chronic residuals consisting of severe painful motion or weakness in the affected extremity — 40 percent. With intermediate degrees of residual weakness, pain or limitation of motion rate by analogy to diagnostic codes 5205 through 5208. Minimum evaluation — 20 percent. --- ## DC 5053 — Wrist replacement (prosthesis) · Prosthetic Implants and Resurfacing {#5053} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5053* Official source: 5053 Wrist replacement (prosthesis). Prosthetic replacement of wrist joint: For 1 year following implantation of prosthesis — 100 percent. With chronic residuals consisting of severe, painful motion or weakness in the affected extremity — 30 percent. With intermediate degrees of residual weakness, pain or limitation of motion, rate by analogy to diagnostic code 5214. Minimum rating — 20 percent. --- ## DC 5054 — Hip, resurfacing or replacement (prosthesis) · Prosthetic Implants and Resurfacing {#5054} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5054* Official source: 5054 Hip, resurfacing or replacement (prosthesis): For 4 months following implantation of prosthesis or resurfacing — 100 percent. Prosthetic replacement of the head of the femur or of the acetabulum: Following implantation of prosthesis with painful motion or weakness such as to require the use of crutches — 90 percent. Markedly severe residual weakness, pain or limitation of motion following implantation of prosthesis — 70 percent. Moderately severe residuals of weakness, pain or limitation of motion — 50 percent. Minimum evaluation, total replacement only — 30 percent. Note: At the conclusion of the 100 percent evaluation period, evaluate resurfacing under diagnostic codes 5250 through 5255; there is no minimum evaluation for resurfacing. --- ## DC 5055 — Knee, resurfacing or replacement (prosthesis) · Prosthetic Implants and Resurfacing {#5055} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5055* Official source: 5055 Knee, resurfacing or replacement (prosthesis): For 4 months following implantation of prosthesis or resurfacing — 100 percent. Prosthetic replacement of knee joint: With chronic residuals consisting of severe painful motion or weakness in the affected extremity — 60 percent. With intermediate degrees of residual weakness, pain or limitation of motion rate by analogy to diagnostic codes 5256, 5261, or 5262. Minimum evaluation, total replacement only — 30 percent. Note: At the conclusion of the 100 percent evaluation period, evaluate resurfacing under diagnostic codes 5256 through 5262; there is no minimum evaluation for resurfacing. --- ## DC 5056 — Ankle replacement (prosthesis) · Prosthetic Implants and Resurfacing {#5056} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5056* Official source: 5056 Ankle replacement (prosthesis). Prosthetic replacement of ankle joint: For 1 year following implantation of prosthesis — 100 percent. With chronic residuals consisting of severe painful motion or weakness — 40 percent. With intermediate degrees of residual weakness, pain or limitation of motion rate by analogy to 5270 or 5271. Minimum rating — 20 percent. combinations of disabilities --- ## DC 5104 — Anatomical loss of one hand and loss of use of one foot · Prosthetic Implants and Resurfacing {#5104} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5104* Official source: 5104 Anatomical loss of one hand and loss of use of one foot — 100 percent. --- ## DC 5105 — Anatomical loss of one foot and loss of use of one hand · Prosthetic Implants and Resurfacing {#5105} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5105* Official source: 5105 Anatomical loss of one foot and loss of use of one hand — 100 percent. --- ## DC 5106 — Anatomical loss of both hands · Prosthetic Implants and Resurfacing {#5106} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5106* Official source: 5106 Anatomical loss of both hands — 100 percent. --- ## DC 5107 — Anatomical loss of both feet · Prosthetic Implants and Resurfacing {#5107} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5107* Official source: 5107 Anatomical loss of both feet — 100 percent. --- ## DC 5108 — Anatomical loss of one hand and one foot · Prosthetic Implants and Resurfacing {#5108} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5108* Official source: 5108 Anatomical loss of one hand and one foot — 100 percent. --- ## DC 5109 — Loss of use of both hands · Prosthetic Implants and Resurfacing {#5109} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5109* Official source: 5109 Loss of use of both hands — 100 percent. --- ## DC 5110 — Loss of use of both feet · Prosthetic Implants and Resurfacing {#5110} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5110* Official source: 5110 Loss of use of both feet — 100 percent. --- ## DC 5111 — Loss of use of one hand and one foot · Prosthetic Implants and Resurfacing {#5111} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5111* Official source: 5111 Loss of use of one hand and one foot — 100 percent. Also entitled to special monthly compensation. --- ## DC 5120 — Complete amputation, upper extremity · Amputations: Upper Extremity {#5120} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5120* Official source: 5120 Complete amputation, upper extremity: Forequarter amputation (involving complete removal of the humerus along with any portion of the scapula, clavicle, and/or ribs) — 100 percent. Disarticulation (involving complete removal of the humerus only) — 90 percent. --- ## DC 5121 — Above insertion of deltoid · Amputations: Upper Extremity {#5121} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5121* Official source: 5121 Above insertion of deltoid — 80 percent. --- ## DC 5122 — Below insertion of deltoid · Amputations: Upper Extremity {#5122} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5122* Official source: 5122 Below insertion of deltoid — 70 percent. Forearm, amputation of: --- ## DC 5123 — Above insertion of pronator teres · Amputations: Upper Extremity {#5123} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5123* Official source: 5123 Above insertion of pronator teres — 70 percent. --- ## DC 5124 — Below insertion of pronator teres · Amputations: Upper Extremity {#5124} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5124* Official source: 5124 Below insertion of pronator teres — 60 percent. --- ## DC 5125 — Hand, loss of use of · Amputations: Upper Extremity {#5125} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5125* Official source: 5125 Hand, loss of use of — 60 percent. multiple finger amputations --- ## DC 5126 — Five digits of one hand, amputation of · Amputations: Upper Extremity {#5126} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5126* Official source: 5126 Five digits of one hand, amputation of — 60 percent. Four digits of one hand, amputation of: --- ## DC 5127 — Thumb, index, long and ring · Amputations: Upper Extremity {#5127} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5127* Official source: 5127 Thumb, index, long and ring — 60 percent. --- ## DC 5128 — Thumb, index, long and little · Amputations: Upper Extremity {#5128} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5128* Official source: 5128 Thumb, index, long and little — 60 percent. --- ## DC 5129 — Thumb, index, ring and little · Amputations: Upper Extremity {#5129} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5129* Official source: 5129 Thumb, index, ring and little — 60 percent. --- ## DC 5130 — Thumb, long, ring and little · Amputations: Upper Extremity {#5130} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5130* Official source: 5130 Thumb, long, ring and little — 60 percent. --- ## DC 5131 — Index, long, ring and little · Amputations: Upper Extremity {#5131} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5131* Official source: 5131 Index, long, ring and little — 50 percent. Three digits of one hand, amputation of: --- ## DC 5132 — Thumb, index and long · Amputations: Upper Extremity {#5132} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5132* Official source: 5132 Thumb, index and long — 50 percent. --- ## DC 5133 — Thumb, index and ring · Amputations: Upper Extremity {#5133} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5133* Official source: 5133 Thumb, index and ring — 50 percent. --- ## DC 5134 — Thumb, index and little · Amputations: Upper Extremity {#5134} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5134* Official source: 5134 Thumb, index and little — 50 percent. --- ## DC 5135 — Thumb, long and ring · Amputations: Upper Extremity {#5135} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5135* Official source: 5135 Thumb, long and ring — 50 percent. --- ## DC 5136 — Thumb, long and little · Amputations: Upper Extremity {#5136} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5136* Official source: 5136 Thumb, long and little — 50 percent. --- ## DC 5137 — Thumb, ring and little · Amputations: Upper Extremity {#5137} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5137* Official source: 5137 Thumb, ring and little — 50 percent. --- ## DC 5138 — Index, long and ring · Amputations: Upper Extremity {#5138} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5138* Official source: 5138 Index, long and ring — 40 percent. --- ## DC 5139 — Index, long and little · Amputations: Upper Extremity {#5139} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5139* Official source: 5139 Index, long and little — 40 percent. --- ## DC 5140 — Index, ring and little · Amputations: Upper Extremity {#5140} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5140* Official source: 5140 Index, ring and little — 40 percent. --- ## DC 5141 — Long, ring and little · Amputations: Upper Extremity {#5141} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5141* Official source: 5141 Long, ring and little — 30 percent. Two digits of one hand, amputation of: --- ## DC 5142 — Thumb and index · Amputations: Upper Extremity {#5142} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5142* Official source: 5142 Thumb and index — 40 percent. --- ## DC 5143 — Thumb and long · Amputations: Upper Extremity {#5143} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5143* Official source: 5143 Thumb and long — 40 percent. --- ## DC 5144 — Thumb and ring · Amputations: Upper Extremity {#5144} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5144* Official source: 5144 Thumb and ring — 40 percent. --- ## DC 5145 — Thumb and little · Amputations: Upper Extremity {#5145} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5145* Official source: 5145 Thumb and little — 40 percent. --- ## DC 5146 — Index and long · Amputations: Upper Extremity {#5146} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5146* Official source: 5146 Index and long — 30 percent. --- ## DC 5147 — Index and ring · Amputations: Upper Extremity {#5147} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5147* Official source: 5147 Index and ring — 30 percent. --- ## DC 5148 — Index and little · Amputations: Upper Extremity {#5148} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5148* Official source: 5148 Index and little — 30 percent. --- ## DC 5149 — Long and ring · Amputations: Upper Extremity {#5149} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5149* Official source: 5149 Long and ring — 20 percent. --- ## DC 5150 — Long and little · Amputations: Upper Extremity {#5150} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5150* Official source: 5150 Long and little — 20 percent. --- ## DC 5151 — Ring and little · Amputations: Upper Extremity {#5151} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5151* Official source: 5151 Ring and little — 20 percent. (a) The ratings for multiple finger amputations apply to amputations at the proximal interphalangeal joints or through proximal phalanges. (b) Amputation through middle phalanges will be rated as prescribed for unfavorable ankylosis of the fingers. (c) Amputations at distal joints, or through distal phalanges, other than negligible losses, will be rated as prescribed for favorable ankylosis of the fingers. (d) Amputation or resection of metacarpal bones (more than one-half the bone lost) in multiple fingers injuries will require a rating of 10 percent added to (not combined with) the ratings, multiple finger amputations, subject to the amputation rule applied to the forearm. (e) Combinations of finger amputations at various levels, or finger amputations with ankylosis or limitation of motion of the fingers will be rated on the basis of the grade of disability; i.e., amputation, unfavorable ankylosis, most representative of the levels or combinations. With an even number of fingers involved, and adjacent grades of disability, select the higher of the two grades. (f) Loss of use of the hand will be held to exist when no effective function remains other than that which would be equally well served by an amputation stump with a suitable prosthetic appliance. single finger amputations --- ## DC 5152 — Thumb, amputation of · Amputations: Upper Extremity {#5152} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5152* Official source: 5152 Thumb, amputation of: With metacarpal resection — 30 percent. At metacarpophalangeal joint or through proximal phalanx — 20 percent. At distal joint or through distal phalanx — 20 percent. --- ## DC 5153 — Index finger, amputation of · Amputations: Upper Extremity {#5153} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5153* Official source: 5153 Index finger, amputation of With metacarpal resection (more than one-half the bone lost) — 20 percent. Without metacarpal resection, at proximal interphalangeal joint or proximal thereto — 20 percent. Through middle phalanx or at distal joint — 10 percent. --- ## DC 5154 — Long finger, amputation of · Amputations: Upper Extremity {#5154} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5154* Official source: 5154 Long finger, amputation of: With metacarpal resection (more than one-half the bone lost) — 20 percent. Without metacarpal resection, at proximal interphalangeal joint or proximal thereto — 10 percent. --- ## DC 5155 — Ring finger, amputation of · Amputations: Upper Extremity {#5155} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5155* Official source: 5155 Ring finger, amputation of: With metacarpal resection (more than one-half the bone lost) — 20 percent. Without metacarpal resection, at proximal interphalangeal joint or proximal thereto — 10 percent. --- ## DC 5156 — Little finger, amputation of · Amputations: Upper Extremity {#5156} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5156* Official source: 5156 Little finger, amputation of: With metacarpal resection (more than one-half the bone lost) — 20 percent. Without metacarpal resection, at proximal interphalangeal joint or proximal thereto — 10 percent. Note: The single finger amputation ratings are the only applicable ratings for amputations of whole or part of single fingers. Entitled to special monthly compensation. --- ## DC 5160 — Complete amputation, lower extremity · Amputations: Lower Extremity {#5160} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5160* Official source: 5160 Complete amputation, lower extremity: Trans-pelvic amputation (involving complete removal of the femur and intrinsic pelvic musculature along with any portion of the pelvic bones) — 100 percent. Disarticulation (involving complete removal of the femur and intrinsic pelvic musculature only) — 90 percent. Note: Separately evaluate residuals involving other body systems (e.g., bowel impairment, bladder impairment) under the appropriate diagnostic code. --- ## DC 5161 — Upper third, one-third of the distance from perineum to knee joint measured from perineum · Amputations: Lower Extremity {#5161} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5161* Official source: 5161 Upper third, one-third of the distance from perineum to knee joint measured from perineum — 80 percent. --- ## DC 5162 — Middle or lower thirds · Amputations: Lower Extremity {#5162} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5162* Official source: 5162 Middle or lower thirds — 60 percent. Leg, amputation of: --- ## DC 5163 — With defective stump, thigh amputation recommended · Amputations: Lower Extremity {#5163} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5163* Official source: 5163 With defective stump, thigh amputation recommended — 60 percent. --- ## DC 5164 — Amputation not improvable by prosthesis controlled by natural knee action · Amputations: Lower Extremity {#5164} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5164* Official source: 5164 Amputation not improvable by prosthesis controlled by natural knee action — 60 percent. --- ## DC 5165 — At a lower level, permitting prosthesis · Amputations: Lower Extremity {#5165} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5165* Official source: 5165 At a lower level, permitting prosthesis — 40 percent. --- ## DC 5166 — Forefoot, amputation proximal to metatarsal bones (more than one-half of metatarsal loss) · Amputations: Lower Extremity {#5166} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5166* Official source: 5166 Forefoot, amputation proximal to metatarsal bones (more than one-half of metatarsal loss) — 40 percent. --- ## DC 5167 — Foot, loss of use of · Amputations: Lower Extremity {#5167} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5167* Official source: 5167 Foot, loss of use of — 40 percent. --- ## DC 5170 — Toes, all, amputation of, without metatarsal loss or transmetatarsal, amputation of, with up to half of metatarsal loss · Amputations: Lower Extremity {#5170} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5170* Official source: 5170 Toes, all, amputation of, without metatarsal loss or transmetatarsal, amputation of, with up to half of metatarsal loss — 30 percent. --- ## DC 5171 — Toe, great, amputation of · Amputations: Lower Extremity {#5171} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5171* Official source: 5171 Toe, great, amputation of: With removal of metatarsal head — 30 percent. Without metatarsal involvement — 10 percent. --- ## DC 5172 — Toes, other than great, amputation of, with removal of metatarsal head · Amputations: Lower Extremity {#5172} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5172* Official source: 5172 Toes, other than great, amputation of, with removal of metatarsal head: One or two — 20 percent. Without metatarsal involvement — 0 percent. --- ## DC 5173 — Toes, three or four, amputation of, without metatarsal involvement · Amputations: Lower Extremity {#5173} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5173* Official source: 5173 Toes, three or four, amputation of, without metatarsal involvement: Including great toe — 20 percent. Not including great toe — 10 percent. Also entitled to special monthly compensation. --- ## DC 5200 — Scapulohumeral articulation, ankylosis of · The Shoulder and Arm {#5200} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5200* Official source: 5200 Scapulohumeral articulation, ankylosis of: Note: The scapula and humerus move as one piece. Unfavorable, abduction limited to 25° from side — 40 percent. Intermediate between favorable and unfavorable — 30 percent. Favorable, abduction to 60°, can reach mouth and head — 20 percent. --- ## DC 5201 — Arm, limitation of motion of · The Shoulder and Arm {#5201} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5201* Official source: 5201 Arm, limitation of motion of: Flexion and/or abduction limited to 25° from side — 30 percent. Midway between side and shoulder level (flexion and/or abduction limited to 45°) — 20 percent. At shoulder level (flexion and/or abduction limited to 90°) — 20 percent. --- ## DC 5202 — Humerus, other impairment of · The Shoulder and Arm {#5202} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5202* Official source: 5202 Humerus, other impairment of: Loss of head of (flail shoulder) — 70 percent. Nonunion of (false flail joint) — 50 percent. Fibrous union of — 40 percent. Recurrent dislocation of at scapulohumeral joint: With frequent episodes and guarding of all arm movements — 20 percent. With infrequent episodes and guarding of movement only at shoulder level (flexion and/or abduction at 90 °) — 20 percent. Malunion of: Marked deformity — 20 percent. Moderate deformity — 20 percent. --- ## DC 5203 — Clavicle or scapula, impairment of · The Shoulder and Arm {#5203} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5203* Official source: 5203 Clavicle or scapula, impairment of: Dislocation of — 20 percent. Nonunion of: With loose movement — 20 percent. Without loose movement — 10 percent. Malunion of — 10 percent. Or rate on impairment of function of contiguous joint. --- ## DC 5205 — Elbow, ankylosis of · The Elbow and Forearm {#5205} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5205* Official source: 5205 Elbow, ankylosis of: Unfavorable, at an angle of less than 50° or with complete loss of supination or pronation — 50 percent. Intermediate, at an angle of more than 90°, or between 70° and 50° — 40 percent. Favorable, at an angle between 90° and 70° — 30 percent. --- ## DC 5206 — Forearm, limitation of flexion of · The Elbow and Forearm {#5206} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5206* Official source: 5206 Forearm, limitation of flexion of: Flexion limited to 45° — 40 percent. Flexion limited to 55° — 30 percent. Flexion limited to 70° — 20 percent. Flexion limited to 90° — 20 percent. Flexion limited to 100° — 10 percent. Flexion limited to 110° — 0 percent. --- ## DC 5207 — Forearm, limitation of extension of · The Elbow and Forearm {#5207} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5207* Official source: 5207 Forearm, limitation of extension of: Extension limited to 110° — 40 percent. Extension limited to 100° — 30 percent. Extension limited to 90° — 20 percent. Extension limited to 75° — 20 percent. Extension limited to 60° — 10 percent. Extension limited to 45° — 10 percent. --- ## DC 5208 — Forearm, flexion limited to 100° and extension to 45° · The Elbow and Forearm {#5208} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5208* Official source: 5208 Forearm, flexion limited to 100° and extension to 45° — 20 percent. --- ## DC 5209 — Elbow, other impairment of Flail joint · The Elbow and Forearm {#5209} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5209* Official source: 5209 Elbow, other impairment of Flail joint — 50 percent. Joint fracture, with marked cubitus varus or cubitus valgus deformity or with ununited fracture of head of radius — 20 percent. --- ## DC 5210 — Radius and ulna, nonunion of, with flail false joint · The Elbow and Forearm {#5210} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5210* Official source: 5210 Radius and ulna, nonunion of, with flail false joint — 40 percent. --- ## DC 5211 — Ulna, impairment of · The Elbow and Forearm {#5211} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5211* Official source: 5211 Ulna, impairment of: Nonunion in upper half, with false movement: With loss of bone substance (1 inch (2.5 cms.) or more) and marked deformity — 30 percent. Without loss of bone substance or deformity — 20 percent. Nonunion in lower half — 20 percent. Malunion of, with bad alignment — 10 percent. --- ## DC 5212 — Radius, impairment of · The Elbow and Forearm {#5212} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5212* Official source: 5212 Radius, impairment of: Nonunion in lower half, with false movement: With loss of bone substance (1 inch (2.5 cms.) or more) and marked deformity — 30 percent. Without loss of bone substance or deformity — 20 percent. Nonunion in upper half — 20 percent. Malunion of, with bad alignment — 10 percent. --- ## DC 5213 — Supination and pronation, impairment of · The Elbow and Forearm {#5213} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5213* Official source: 5213 Supination and pronation, impairment of: Loss of (bone fusion): The hand fixed in supination or hyperpronation — 30 percent. The hand fixed in full pronation — 20 percent. The hand fixed near the middle of the arc or moderate pronation — 20 percent. Limitation of pronation: Motion lost beyond middle of arc — 20 percent. Motion lost beyond last quarter of arc, the hand does not approach full pronation — 20 percent. Limitation of supination: To 30° or less — 10 percent. Note: In all the forearm and wrist injuries, codes 5205 through 5213, multiple impaired finger movements due to tendon tie-up, muscle or nerve injury, are to be separately rated and combined not to exceed rating for loss of use of hand. --- ## DC 5214 — Wrist, ankylosis of · The Wrist {#5214} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5214* Official source: 5214 Wrist, ankylosis of: Unfavorable, in any degree of palmar flexion, or with ulnar or radial deviation — 40 percent. Any other position, except favorable — 30 percent. Favorable in 20° to 30° dorsiflexion — 20 percent. Note: Extremely unfavorable ankylosis will be rated as loss of use of hands under diagnostic code 5125. --- ## DC 5215 — Wrist, limitation of motion of · The Wrist {#5215} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5215* Official source: 5215 Wrist, limitation of motion of: Dorsiflexion less than 15° — 10 percent. Palmar flexion limited in line with forearm — 10 percent. --- ## DC 5216 — Five digits of one hand, unfavorable ankylosis of · Evaluation of Ankylosis or Limitation of Motion of Single or Multiple Digits of the Hand {#5216} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5216* Official source: 5216 Five digits of one hand, unfavorable ankylosis of — 50 percent. Note: Also consider whether evaluation as amputation is warranted. --- ## DC 5217 — Four digits of one hand, unfavorable ankylosis of · Evaluation of Ankylosis or Limitation of Motion of Single or Multiple Digits of the Hand {#5217} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5217* Official source: 5217 Four digits of one hand, unfavorable ankylosis of: Thumb and any three fingers — 50 percent. Index, long, ring, and little fingers — 40 percent. Note: Also consider whether evaluation as amputation is warranted. --- ## DC 5218 — Three digits of one hand, unfavorable ankylosis of · Evaluation of Ankylosis or Limitation of Motion of Single or Multiple Digits of the Hand {#5218} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5218* Official source: 5218 Three digits of one hand, unfavorable ankylosis of: Thumb and any two fingers — 40 percent. Index, long, and ring; index, long, and little; or index, ring, and little fingers — 30 percent. Long, ring, and little fingers — 20 percent. Note: Also consider whether evaluation as amputation is warranted. --- ## DC 5219 — Two digits of one hand, unfavorable ankylosis of · Evaluation of Ankylosis or Limitation of Motion of Single or Multiple Digits of the Hand {#5219} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5219* Official source: 5219 Two digits of one hand, unfavorable ankylosis of: Thumb and any finger — 30 percent. Index and long; index and ring; or index and little fingers — 20 percent. Long and ring; long and little; or ring and little fingers — 20 percent. Note: Also consider whether evaluation as amputation is warranted. II. Multiple Digits: Favorable Ankylosis --- ## DC 5220 — Five digits of one hand, favorable ankylosis of · Evaluation of Ankylosis or Limitation of Motion of Single or Multiple Digits of the Hand {#5220} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5220* Official source: 5220 Five digits of one hand, favorable ankylosis of — 40 percent. --- ## DC 5221 — Four digits of one hand, favorable ankylosis of · Evaluation of Ankylosis or Limitation of Motion of Single or Multiple Digits of the Hand {#5221} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5221* Official source: 5221 Four digits of one hand, favorable ankylosis of: Thumb and any three fingers — 40 percent. Index, long, ring, and little fingers — 30 percent. --- ## DC 5222 — Three digits of one hand, favorable ankylosis of · Evaluation of Ankylosis or Limitation of Motion of Single or Multiple Digits of the Hand {#5222} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5222* Official source: 5222 Three digits of one hand, favorable ankylosis of: Thumb and any two fingers — 30 percent. Index, long, and ring; index, long, and little; or index, ring, and little fingers — 20 percent. Long, ring and little fingers — 20 percent. --- ## DC 5223 — Two digits of one hand, favorable ankylosis of · Evaluation of Ankylosis or Limitation of Motion of Single or Multiple Digits of the Hand {#5223} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5223* Official source: 5223 Two digits of one hand, favorable ankylosis of: Thumb and any finger — 20 percent. Index and long; index and ring; or index and little fingers — 20 percent. Long and ring; long and little; or ring and little fingers — 10 percent. III. Ankylosis of Individual Digits --- ## DC 5224 — Thumb, ankylosis of · Evaluation of Ankylosis or Limitation of Motion of Single or Multiple Digits of the Hand {#5224} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5224* Official source: 5224 Thumb, ankylosis of: Unfavorable — 20 percent. Favorable — 10 percent. Note: Also consider whether evaluation as amputation is warranted and whether an additional evaluation is warranted for resulting limitation of motion of other digits or interference with overall function of the hand. --- ## DC 5225 — Index finger, ankylosis of · Evaluation of Ankylosis or Limitation of Motion of Single or Multiple Digits of the Hand {#5225} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5225* Official source: 5225 Index finger, ankylosis of: Unfavorable or favorable — 10 percent. Note: Also consider whether evaluation as amputation is warranted and whether an additional evaluation is warranted for resulting limitation of motion of other digits or interference with overall function of the hand. --- ## DC 5226 — Long finger, ankylosis of · Evaluation of Ankylosis or Limitation of Motion of Single or Multiple Digits of the Hand {#5226} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5226* Official source: 5226 Long finger, ankylosis of: Unfavorable or favorable — 10 percent. Note: Also consider whether evaluation as amputation is warranted and whether an additional evaluation is warranted for resulting limitation of motion of other digits or interference with overall function of the hand. --- ## DC 5227 — Ring or little finger, ankylosis of · Evaluation of Ankylosis or Limitation of Motion of Single or Multiple Digits of the Hand {#5227} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5227* Official source: 5227 Ring or little finger, ankylosis of: Unfavorable or favorable — 0 percent. Note: Also consider whether evaluation as amputation is warranted and whether an additional evaluation is warranted for resulting limitation of motion of other digits or interference with overall function of the hand. IV. Limitation of Motion of Individual Digits --- ## DC 5228 — Thumb, limitation of motion · Evaluation of Ankylosis or Limitation of Motion of Single or Multiple Digits of the Hand {#5228} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5228* Official source: 5228 Thumb, limitation of motion: With a gap of more than two inches (5.1 cm.) between the thumb pad and the fingers, with the thumb attempting to oppose the fingers — 20 percent. With a gap of one to two inches (2.5 to 5.1 cm.) between the thumb pad and the fingers, with the thumb attempting to oppose the fingers — 10 percent. With a gap of less than one inch (2.5 cm.) between the thumb pad and the fingers, with the thumb attempting to oppose the fingers — 0 percent. --- ## DC 5229 — Index or long finger, limitation of motion · Evaluation of Ankylosis or Limitation of Motion of Single or Multiple Digits of the Hand {#5229} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5229* Official source: 5229 Index or long finger, limitation of motion: With a gap of one inch (2.5 cm.) or more between the fingertip and the proximal transverse crease of the palm, with the finger flexed to the extent possible, or; with extension limited by more than 30 degrees — 10 percent. With a gap of less than one inch (2.5 cm.) between the fingertip and the proximal transverse crease of the palm, with the finger flexed to the extent possible, and; extension is limited by no more than 30 degrees — 0 percent. --- ## DC 5230 — Ring or little finger, limitation of motion · Evaluation of Ankylosis or Limitation of Motion of Single or Multiple Digits of the Hand {#5230} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5230* Official source: 5230 Ring or little finger, limitation of motion: Any limitation of motion — 0 percent. --- ## DC 5235 — Vertebral fracture or dislocation · The Spine {#5235} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5235* Official source: 5235 Vertebral fracture or dislocation General Rating Formula for Diseases and Injuries of the Spine: (For diagnostic codes 5235 to 5243 unless 5243 is evaluated under the Formula for Rating Intervertebral Disc Syndrome Based on Incapacitating Episodes): With or without symptoms such as pain (whether or not it radiates), stiffness, or aching in the area of the spine affected by residuals of injury or disease Unfavorable ankylosis of the entire spine — 100 percent. Unfavorable ankylosis of the entire thoracolumbar spine — 50 percent. Unfavorable ankylosis of the entire cervical spine; or, forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine 30 degrees or less; or, favorable ankylosis of the entire thoracolumbar spine — 40 percent. Forward flexion of the cervical spine 15 degrees or less; or, favorable ankylosis of the entire cervical spine — 30 percent. Forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine greater than 30 degrees but not greater than 60 degrees; or, forward flexion of the cervical spine greater than 15 degrees but not greater than 30 degrees; or, the combined range of motion of the thoracolumbar spine not greater than 120 degrees; or, the combined range of motion of the cervical spine not greater than 170 degrees; or, muscle spasm or guarding severe enough to result in an abnormal gait or abnormal spinal contour such as scoliosis, reversed lordosis, or abnormal kyphosis — 20 percent. Forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine greater than 60 degrees but not greater than 85 degrees; or, forward flexion of the cervical spine greater than 30 degrees but not greater than 40 degrees; or, combined range of motion of the thoracolumbar spine greater than 120 degrees but not greater than 235 degrees; or, combined range of motion of the cervical spine greater than 170 degrees but not greater than 335 degrees; or, muscle spasm, guarding, or localized tenderness not resulting in abnormal gait or abnormal spinal contour; or, vertebral body fracture with loss of 50 percent or more of the height — 10 percent. Note (1): Evaluate any associated objective neurologic abnormalities, including, but not limited to, bowel or bladder impairment, separately, under an appropriate diagnostic code. Note (2): (See also Plate V.) For VA compensation purposes, normal forward flexion of the cervical spine is zero to 45 degrees, extension is zero to 45 degrees, left and right lateral flexion are zero to 45 degrees, and left and right lateral rotation are zero to 80 degrees. Normal forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine is zero to 90 degrees, extension is zero to 30 degrees, left and right lateral flexion are zero to 30 degrees, and left and right lateral rotation are zero to 30 degrees. The combined range of motion refers to the sum of the range of forward flexion, extension, left and right lateral flexion, and left and right rotation. The normal combined range of motion of the cervical spine is 340 degrees and of the thoracolumbar spine is 240 degrees. The normal ranges of motion for each component of spinal motion provided in this note are the maximum that can be used for calculation of the combined range of motion. Note (3): In exceptional cases, an examiner may state that because of age, body habitus, neurologic disease, or other factors not the result of disease or injury of the spine, the range of motion of the spine in a particular individual should be considered normal for that individual, even though it does not conform to the normal range of motion stated in Note (2). Provided that the examiner supplies an explanation, the examiner's assessment that the range of motion is normal for that individual will be accepted. Note (4): Round each range of motion measurement to the nearest five degrees. Note (5): For VA compensation purposes, unfavorable ankylosis is a condition in which the entire cervical spine, the entire thoracolumbar spine, or the entire spine is fixed in flexion or extension, and the ankylosis results in one or more of the following: difficulty walking because of a limited line of vision; restricted opening of the mouth and chewing; breathing limited to diaphragmatic respiration; gastrointestinal symptoms due to pressure of the costal margin on the abdomen; dyspnea or dysphagia; atlantoaxial or cervical subluxation or dislocation; or neurologic symptoms due to nerve root stretching. Fixation of a spinal segment in neutral position (zero degrees) always represents favorable ankylosis. Note (6): Separately evaluate disability of the thoracolumbar and cervical spine segments, except when there is unfavorable ankylosis of both segments, which will be rated as a single disability. --- ## DC 5236 — Sacroiliac injury and weakness · The Spine {#5236} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5236* Official source: 5236 Sacroiliac injury and weakness General Rating Formula for Diseases and Injuries of the Spine: (For diagnostic codes 5235 to 5243 unless 5243 is evaluated under the Formula for Rating Intervertebral Disc Syndrome Based on Incapacitating Episodes): With or without symptoms such as pain (whether or not it radiates), stiffness, or aching in the area of the spine affected by residuals of injury or disease Unfavorable ankylosis of the entire spine — 100 percent. Unfavorable ankylosis of the entire thoracolumbar spine — 50 percent. Unfavorable ankylosis of the entire cervical spine; or, forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine 30 degrees or less; or, favorable ankylosis of the entire thoracolumbar spine — 40 percent. Forward flexion of the cervical spine 15 degrees or less; or, favorable ankylosis of the entire cervical spine — 30 percent. Forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine greater than 30 degrees but not greater than 60 degrees; or, forward flexion of the cervical spine greater than 15 degrees but not greater than 30 degrees; or, the combined range of motion of the thoracolumbar spine not greater than 120 degrees; or, the combined range of motion of the cervical spine not greater than 170 degrees; or, muscle spasm or guarding severe enough to result in an abnormal gait or abnormal spinal contour such as scoliosis, reversed lordosis, or abnormal kyphosis — 20 percent. Forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine greater than 60 degrees but not greater than 85 degrees; or, forward flexion of the cervical spine greater than 30 degrees but not greater than 40 degrees; or, combined range of motion of the thoracolumbar spine greater than 120 degrees but not greater than 235 degrees; or, combined range of motion of the cervical spine greater than 170 degrees but not greater than 335 degrees; or, muscle spasm, guarding, or localized tenderness not resulting in abnormal gait or abnormal spinal contour; or, vertebral body fracture with loss of 50 percent or more of the height — 10 percent. Note (1): Evaluate any associated objective neurologic abnormalities, including, but not limited to, bowel or bladder impairment, separately, under an appropriate diagnostic code. Note (2): (See also Plate V.) For VA compensation purposes, normal forward flexion of the cervical spine is zero to 45 degrees, extension is zero to 45 degrees, left and right lateral flexion are zero to 45 degrees, and left and right lateral rotation are zero to 80 degrees. Normal forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine is zero to 90 degrees, extension is zero to 30 degrees, left and right lateral flexion are zero to 30 degrees, and left and right lateral rotation are zero to 30 degrees. The combined range of motion refers to the sum of the range of forward flexion, extension, left and right lateral flexion, and left and right rotation. The normal combined range of motion of the cervical spine is 340 degrees and of the thoracolumbar spine is 240 degrees. The normal ranges of motion for each component of spinal motion provided in this note are the maximum that can be used for calculation of the combined range of motion. Note (3): In exceptional cases, an examiner may state that because of age, body habitus, neurologic disease, or other factors not the result of disease or injury of the spine, the range of motion of the spine in a particular individual should be considered normal for that individual, even though it does not conform to the normal range of motion stated in Note (2). Provided that the examiner supplies an explanation, the examiner's assessment that the range of motion is normal for that individual will be accepted. Note (4): Round each range of motion measurement to the nearest five degrees. Note (5): For VA compensation purposes, unfavorable ankylosis is a condition in which the entire cervical spine, the entire thoracolumbar spine, or the entire spine is fixed in flexion or extension, and the ankylosis results in one or more of the following: difficulty walking because of a limited line of vision; restricted opening of the mouth and chewing; breathing limited to diaphragmatic respiration; gastrointestinal symptoms due to pressure of the costal margin on the abdomen; dyspnea or dysphagia; atlantoaxial or cervical subluxation or dislocation; or neurologic symptoms due to nerve root stretching. Fixation of a spinal segment in neutral position (zero degrees) always represents favorable ankylosis. Note (6): Separately evaluate disability of the thoracolumbar and cervical spine segments, except when there is unfavorable ankylosis of both segments, which will be rated as a single disability. --- ## DC 5237 — Lumbosacral or cervical strain · The Spine {#5237} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5237* Official source: 5237 Lumbosacral or cervical strain General Rating Formula for Diseases and Injuries of the Spine: (For diagnostic codes 5235 to 5243 unless 5243 is evaluated under the Formula for Rating Intervertebral Disc Syndrome Based on Incapacitating Episodes): With or without symptoms such as pain (whether or not it radiates), stiffness, or aching in the area of the spine affected by residuals of injury or disease Unfavorable ankylosis of the entire spine — 100 percent. Unfavorable ankylosis of the entire thoracolumbar spine — 50 percent. Unfavorable ankylosis of the entire cervical spine; or, forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine 30 degrees or less; or, favorable ankylosis of the entire thoracolumbar spine — 40 percent. Forward flexion of the cervical spine 15 degrees or less; or, favorable ankylosis of the entire cervical spine — 30 percent. Forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine greater than 30 degrees but not greater than 60 degrees; or, forward flexion of the cervical spine greater than 15 degrees but not greater than 30 degrees; or, the combined range of motion of the thoracolumbar spine not greater than 120 degrees; or, the combined range of motion of the cervical spine not greater than 170 degrees; or, muscle spasm or guarding severe enough to result in an abnormal gait or abnormal spinal contour such as scoliosis, reversed lordosis, or abnormal kyphosis — 20 percent. Forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine greater than 60 degrees but not greater than 85 degrees; or, forward flexion of the cervical spine greater than 30 degrees but not greater than 40 degrees; or, combined range of motion of the thoracolumbar spine greater than 120 degrees but not greater than 235 degrees; or, combined range of motion of the cervical spine greater than 170 degrees but not greater than 335 degrees; or, muscle spasm, guarding, or localized tenderness not resulting in abnormal gait or abnormal spinal contour; or, vertebral body fracture with loss of 50 percent or more of the height — 10 percent. Note (1): Evaluate any associated objective neurologic abnormalities, including, but not limited to, bowel or bladder impairment, separately, under an appropriate diagnostic code. Note (2): (See also Plate V.) For VA compensation purposes, normal forward flexion of the cervical spine is zero to 45 degrees, extension is zero to 45 degrees, left and right lateral flexion are zero to 45 degrees, and left and right lateral rotation are zero to 80 degrees. Normal forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine is zero to 90 degrees, extension is zero to 30 degrees, left and right lateral flexion are zero to 30 degrees, and left and right lateral rotation are zero to 30 degrees. The combined range of motion refers to the sum of the range of forward flexion, extension, left and right lateral flexion, and left and right rotation. The normal combined range of motion of the cervical spine is 340 degrees and of the thoracolumbar spine is 240 degrees. The normal ranges of motion for each component of spinal motion provided in this note are the maximum that can be used for calculation of the combined range of motion. Note (3): In exceptional cases, an examiner may state that because of age, body habitus, neurologic disease, or other factors not the result of disease or injury of the spine, the range of motion of the spine in a particular individual should be considered normal for that individual, even though it does not conform to the normal range of motion stated in Note (2). Provided that the examiner supplies an explanation, the examiner's assessment that the range of motion is normal for that individual will be accepted. Note (4): Round each range of motion measurement to the nearest five degrees. Note (5): For VA compensation purposes, unfavorable ankylosis is a condition in which the entire cervical spine, the entire thoracolumbar spine, or the entire spine is fixed in flexion or extension, and the ankylosis results in one or more of the following: difficulty walking because of a limited line of vision; restricted opening of the mouth and chewing; breathing limited to diaphragmatic respiration; gastrointestinal symptoms due to pressure of the costal margin on the abdomen; dyspnea or dysphagia; atlantoaxial or cervical subluxation or dislocation; or neurologic symptoms due to nerve root stretching. Fixation of a spinal segment in neutral position (zero degrees) always represents favorable ankylosis. Note (6): Separately evaluate disability of the thoracolumbar and cervical spine segments, except when there is unfavorable ankylosis of both segments, which will be rated as a single disability. --- ## DC 5238 — Spinal stenosis · The Spine {#5238} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5238* Official source: 5238 Spinal stenosis General Rating Formula for Diseases and Injuries of the Spine: (For diagnostic codes 5235 to 5243 unless 5243 is evaluated under the Formula for Rating Intervertebral Disc Syndrome Based on Incapacitating Episodes): With or without symptoms such as pain (whether or not it radiates), stiffness, or aching in the area of the spine affected by residuals of injury or disease Unfavorable ankylosis of the entire spine — 100 percent. Unfavorable ankylosis of the entire thoracolumbar spine — 50 percent. Unfavorable ankylosis of the entire cervical spine; or, forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine 30 degrees or less; or, favorable ankylosis of the entire thoracolumbar spine — 40 percent. Forward flexion of the cervical spine 15 degrees or less; or, favorable ankylosis of the entire cervical spine — 30 percent. Forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine greater than 30 degrees but not greater than 60 degrees; or, forward flexion of the cervical spine greater than 15 degrees but not greater than 30 degrees; or, the combined range of motion of the thoracolumbar spine not greater than 120 degrees; or, the combined range of motion of the cervical spine not greater than 170 degrees; or, muscle spasm or guarding severe enough to result in an abnormal gait or abnormal spinal contour such as scoliosis, reversed lordosis, or abnormal kyphosis — 20 percent. Forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine greater than 60 degrees but not greater than 85 degrees; or, forward flexion of the cervical spine greater than 30 degrees but not greater than 40 degrees; or, combined range of motion of the thoracolumbar spine greater than 120 degrees but not greater than 235 degrees; or, combined range of motion of the cervical spine greater than 170 degrees but not greater than 335 degrees; or, muscle spasm, guarding, or localized tenderness not resulting in abnormal gait or abnormal spinal contour; or, vertebral body fracture with loss of 50 percent or more of the height — 10 percent. Note (1): Evaluate any associated objective neurologic abnormalities, including, but not limited to, bowel or bladder impairment, separately, under an appropriate diagnostic code. Note (2): (See also Plate V.) For VA compensation purposes, normal forward flexion of the cervical spine is zero to 45 degrees, extension is zero to 45 degrees, left and right lateral flexion are zero to 45 degrees, and left and right lateral rotation are zero to 80 degrees. Normal forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine is zero to 90 degrees, extension is zero to 30 degrees, left and right lateral flexion are zero to 30 degrees, and left and right lateral rotation are zero to 30 degrees. The combined range of motion refers to the sum of the range of forward flexion, extension, left and right lateral flexion, and left and right rotation. The normal combined range of motion of the cervical spine is 340 degrees and of the thoracolumbar spine is 240 degrees. The normal ranges of motion for each component of spinal motion provided in this note are the maximum that can be used for calculation of the combined range of motion. Note (3): In exceptional cases, an examiner may state that because of age, body habitus, neurologic disease, or other factors not the result of disease or injury of the spine, the range of motion of the spine in a particular individual should be considered normal for that individual, even though it does not conform to the normal range of motion stated in Note (2). Provided that the examiner supplies an explanation, the examiner's assessment that the range of motion is normal for that individual will be accepted. Note (4): Round each range of motion measurement to the nearest five degrees. Note (5): For VA compensation purposes, unfavorable ankylosis is a condition in which the entire cervical spine, the entire thoracolumbar spine, or the entire spine is fixed in flexion or extension, and the ankylosis results in one or more of the following: difficulty walking because of a limited line of vision; restricted opening of the mouth and chewing; breathing limited to diaphragmatic respiration; gastrointestinal symptoms due to pressure of the costal margin on the abdomen; dyspnea or dysphagia; atlantoaxial or cervical subluxation or dislocation; or neurologic symptoms due to nerve root stretching. Fixation of a spinal segment in neutral position (zero degrees) always represents favorable ankylosis. Note (6): Separately evaluate disability of the thoracolumbar and cervical spine segments, except when there is unfavorable ankylosis of both segments, which will be rated as a single disability. --- ## DC 5239 — Spondylolisthesis or segmental instability · The Spine {#5239} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5239* Official source: 5239 Spondylolisthesis or segmental instability General Rating Formula for Diseases and Injuries of the Spine: (For diagnostic codes 5235 to 5243 unless 5243 is evaluated under the Formula for Rating Intervertebral Disc Syndrome Based on Incapacitating Episodes): With or without symptoms such as pain (whether or not it radiates), stiffness, or aching in the area of the spine affected by residuals of injury or disease Unfavorable ankylosis of the entire spine — 100 percent. Unfavorable ankylosis of the entire thoracolumbar spine — 50 percent. Unfavorable ankylosis of the entire cervical spine; or, forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine 30 degrees or less; or, favorable ankylosis of the entire thoracolumbar spine — 40 percent. Forward flexion of the cervical spine 15 degrees or less; or, favorable ankylosis of the entire cervical spine — 30 percent. Forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine greater than 30 degrees but not greater than 60 degrees; or, forward flexion of the cervical spine greater than 15 degrees but not greater than 30 degrees; or, the combined range of motion of the thoracolumbar spine not greater than 120 degrees; or, the combined range of motion of the cervical spine not greater than 170 degrees; or, muscle spasm or guarding severe enough to result in an abnormal gait or abnormal spinal contour such as scoliosis, reversed lordosis, or abnormal kyphosis — 20 percent. Forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine greater than 60 degrees but not greater than 85 degrees; or, forward flexion of the cervical spine greater than 30 degrees but not greater than 40 degrees; or, combined range of motion of the thoracolumbar spine greater than 120 degrees but not greater than 235 degrees; or, combined range of motion of the cervical spine greater than 170 degrees but not greater than 335 degrees; or, muscle spasm, guarding, or localized tenderness not resulting in abnormal gait or abnormal spinal contour; or, vertebral body fracture with loss of 50 percent or more of the height — 10 percent. Note (1): Evaluate any associated objective neurologic abnormalities, including, but not limited to, bowel or bladder impairment, separately, under an appropriate diagnostic code. Note (2): (See also Plate V.) For VA compensation purposes, normal forward flexion of the cervical spine is zero to 45 degrees, extension is zero to 45 degrees, left and right lateral flexion are zero to 45 degrees, and left and right lateral rotation are zero to 80 degrees. Normal forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine is zero to 90 degrees, extension is zero to 30 degrees, left and right lateral flexion are zero to 30 degrees, and left and right lateral rotation are zero to 30 degrees. The combined range of motion refers to the sum of the range of forward flexion, extension, left and right lateral flexion, and left and right rotation. The normal combined range of motion of the cervical spine is 340 degrees and of the thoracolumbar spine is 240 degrees. The normal ranges of motion for each component of spinal motion provided in this note are the maximum that can be used for calculation of the combined range of motion. Note (3): In exceptional cases, an examiner may state that because of age, body habitus, neurologic disease, or other factors not the result of disease or injury of the spine, the range of motion of the spine in a particular individual should be considered normal for that individual, even though it does not conform to the normal range of motion stated in Note (2). Provided that the examiner supplies an explanation, the examiner's assessment that the range of motion is normal for that individual will be accepted. Note (4): Round each range of motion measurement to the nearest five degrees. Note (5): For VA compensation purposes, unfavorable ankylosis is a condition in which the entire cervical spine, the entire thoracolumbar spine, or the entire spine is fixed in flexion or extension, and the ankylosis results in one or more of the following: difficulty walking because of a limited line of vision; restricted opening of the mouth and chewing; breathing limited to diaphragmatic respiration; gastrointestinal symptoms due to pressure of the costal margin on the abdomen; dyspnea or dysphagia; atlantoaxial or cervical subluxation or dislocation; or neurologic symptoms due to nerve root stretching. Fixation of a spinal segment in neutral position (zero degrees) always represents favorable ankylosis. Note (6): Separately evaluate disability of the thoracolumbar and cervical spine segments, except when there is unfavorable ankylosis of both segments, which will be rated as a single disability. --- ## DC 5240 — Ankylosing spondylitis · The Spine {#5240} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5240* Official source: 5240 Ankylosing spondylitis General Rating Formula for Diseases and Injuries of the Spine: (For diagnostic codes 5235 to 5243 unless 5243 is evaluated under the Formula for Rating Intervertebral Disc Syndrome Based on Incapacitating Episodes): With or without symptoms such as pain (whether or not it radiates), stiffness, or aching in the area of the spine affected by residuals of injury or disease Unfavorable ankylosis of the entire spine — 100 percent. Unfavorable ankylosis of the entire thoracolumbar spine — 50 percent. Unfavorable ankylosis of the entire cervical spine; or, forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine 30 degrees or less; or, favorable ankylosis of the entire thoracolumbar spine — 40 percent. Forward flexion of the cervical spine 15 degrees or less; or, favorable ankylosis of the entire cervical spine — 30 percent. Forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine greater than 30 degrees but not greater than 60 degrees; or, forward flexion of the cervical spine greater than 15 degrees but not greater than 30 degrees; or, the combined range of motion of the thoracolumbar spine not greater than 120 degrees; or, the combined range of motion of the cervical spine not greater than 170 degrees; or, muscle spasm or guarding severe enough to result in an abnormal gait or abnormal spinal contour such as scoliosis, reversed lordosis, or abnormal kyphosis — 20 percent. Forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine greater than 60 degrees but not greater than 85 degrees; or, forward flexion of the cervical spine greater than 30 degrees but not greater than 40 degrees; or, combined range of motion of the thoracolumbar spine greater than 120 degrees but not greater than 235 degrees; or, combined range of motion of the cervical spine greater than 170 degrees but not greater than 335 degrees; or, muscle spasm, guarding, or localized tenderness not resulting in abnormal gait or abnormal spinal contour; or, vertebral body fracture with loss of 50 percent or more of the height — 10 percent. Note (1): Evaluate any associated objective neurologic abnormalities, including, but not limited to, bowel or bladder impairment, separately, under an appropriate diagnostic code. Note (2): (See also Plate V.) For VA compensation purposes, normal forward flexion of the cervical spine is zero to 45 degrees, extension is zero to 45 degrees, left and right lateral flexion are zero to 45 degrees, and left and right lateral rotation are zero to 80 degrees. Normal forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine is zero to 90 degrees, extension is zero to 30 degrees, left and right lateral flexion are zero to 30 degrees, and left and right lateral rotation are zero to 30 degrees. The combined range of motion refers to the sum of the range of forward flexion, extension, left and right lateral flexion, and left and right rotation. The normal combined range of motion of the cervical spine is 340 degrees and of the thoracolumbar spine is 240 degrees. The normal ranges of motion for each component of spinal motion provided in this note are the maximum that can be used for calculation of the combined range of motion. Note (3): In exceptional cases, an examiner may state that because of age, body habitus, neurologic disease, or other factors not the result of disease or injury of the spine, the range of motion of the spine in a particular individual should be considered normal for that individual, even though it does not conform to the normal range of motion stated in Note (2). Provided that the examiner supplies an explanation, the examiner's assessment that the range of motion is normal for that individual will be accepted. Note (4): Round each range of motion measurement to the nearest five degrees. Note (5): For VA compensation purposes, unfavorable ankylosis is a condition in which the entire cervical spine, the entire thoracolumbar spine, or the entire spine is fixed in flexion or extension, and the ankylosis results in one or more of the following: difficulty walking because of a limited line of vision; restricted opening of the mouth and chewing; breathing limited to diaphragmatic respiration; gastrointestinal symptoms due to pressure of the costal margin on the abdomen; dyspnea or dysphagia; atlantoaxial or cervical subluxation or dislocation; or neurologic symptoms due to nerve root stretching. Fixation of a spinal segment in neutral position (zero degrees) always represents favorable ankylosis. Note (6): Separately evaluate disability of the thoracolumbar and cervical spine segments, except when there is unfavorable ankylosis of both segments, which will be rated as a single disability. --- ## DC 5241 — Spinal fusion · The Spine {#5241} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5241* Official source: 5241 Spinal fusion General Rating Formula for Diseases and Injuries of the Spine: (For diagnostic codes 5235 to 5243 unless 5243 is evaluated under the Formula for Rating Intervertebral Disc Syndrome Based on Incapacitating Episodes): With or without symptoms such as pain (whether or not it radiates), stiffness, or aching in the area of the spine affected by residuals of injury or disease Unfavorable ankylosis of the entire spine — 100 percent. Unfavorable ankylosis of the entire thoracolumbar spine — 50 percent. Unfavorable ankylosis of the entire cervical spine; or, forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine 30 degrees or less; or, favorable ankylosis of the entire thoracolumbar spine — 40 percent. Forward flexion of the cervical spine 15 degrees or less; or, favorable ankylosis of the entire cervical spine — 30 percent. Forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine greater than 30 degrees but not greater than 60 degrees; or, forward flexion of the cervical spine greater than 15 degrees but not greater than 30 degrees; or, the combined range of motion of the thoracolumbar spine not greater than 120 degrees; or, the combined range of motion of the cervical spine not greater than 170 degrees; or, muscle spasm or guarding severe enough to result in an abnormal gait or abnormal spinal contour such as scoliosis, reversed lordosis, or abnormal kyphosis — 20 percent. Forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine greater than 60 degrees but not greater than 85 degrees; or, forward flexion of the cervical spine greater than 30 degrees but not greater than 40 degrees; or, combined range of motion of the thoracolumbar spine greater than 120 degrees but not greater than 235 degrees; or, combined range of motion of the cervical spine greater than 170 degrees but not greater than 335 degrees; or, muscle spasm, guarding, or localized tenderness not resulting in abnormal gait or abnormal spinal contour; or, vertebral body fracture with loss of 50 percent or more of the height — 10 percent. Note (1): Evaluate any associated objective neurologic abnormalities, including, but not limited to, bowel or bladder impairment, separately, under an appropriate diagnostic code. Note (2): (See also Plate V.) For VA compensation purposes, normal forward flexion of the cervical spine is zero to 45 degrees, extension is zero to 45 degrees, left and right lateral flexion are zero to 45 degrees, and left and right lateral rotation are zero to 80 degrees. Normal forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine is zero to 90 degrees, extension is zero to 30 degrees, left and right lateral flexion are zero to 30 degrees, and left and right lateral rotation are zero to 30 degrees. The combined range of motion refers to the sum of the range of forward flexion, extension, left and right lateral flexion, and left and right rotation. The normal combined range of motion of the cervical spine is 340 degrees and of the thoracolumbar spine is 240 degrees. The normal ranges of motion for each component of spinal motion provided in this note are the maximum that can be used for calculation of the combined range of motion. Note (3): In exceptional cases, an examiner may state that because of age, body habitus, neurologic disease, or other factors not the result of disease or injury of the spine, the range of motion of the spine in a particular individual should be considered normal for that individual, even though it does not conform to the normal range of motion stated in Note (2). Provided that the examiner supplies an explanation, the examiner's assessment that the range of motion is normal for that individual will be accepted. Note (4): Round each range of motion measurement to the nearest five degrees. Note (5): For VA compensation purposes, unfavorable ankylosis is a condition in which the entire cervical spine, the entire thoracolumbar spine, or the entire spine is fixed in flexion or extension, and the ankylosis results in one or more of the following: difficulty walking because of a limited line of vision; restricted opening of the mouth and chewing; breathing limited to diaphragmatic respiration; gastrointestinal symptoms due to pressure of the costal margin on the abdomen; dyspnea or dysphagia; atlantoaxial or cervical subluxation or dislocation; or neurologic symptoms due to nerve root stretching. Fixation of a spinal segment in neutral position (zero degrees) always represents favorable ankylosis. Note (6): Separately evaluate disability of the thoracolumbar and cervical spine segments, except when there is unfavorable ankylosis of both segments, which will be rated as a single disability. --- ## DC 5242 — Degenerative arthritis, degenerative disc disease other than intervertebral disc syndrome (also, see either DC 5003 or 5010) · The Spine {#5242} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5242* Official source: 5242 Degenerative arthritis, degenerative disc disease other than intervertebral disc syndrome (also, see either DC 5003 or 5010) General Rating Formula for Diseases and Injuries of the Spine: (For diagnostic codes 5235 to 5243 unless 5243 is evaluated under the Formula for Rating Intervertebral Disc Syndrome Based on Incapacitating Episodes): With or without symptoms such as pain (whether or not it radiates), stiffness, or aching in the area of the spine affected by residuals of injury or disease Unfavorable ankylosis of the entire spine — 100 percent. Unfavorable ankylosis of the entire thoracolumbar spine — 50 percent. Unfavorable ankylosis of the entire cervical spine; or, forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine 30 degrees or less; or, favorable ankylosis of the entire thoracolumbar spine — 40 percent. Forward flexion of the cervical spine 15 degrees or less; or, favorable ankylosis of the entire cervical spine — 30 percent. Forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine greater than 30 degrees but not greater than 60 degrees; or, forward flexion of the cervical spine greater than 15 degrees but not greater than 30 degrees; or, the combined range of motion of the thoracolumbar spine not greater than 120 degrees; or, the combined range of motion of the cervical spine not greater than 170 degrees; or, muscle spasm or guarding severe enough to result in an abnormal gait or abnormal spinal contour such as scoliosis, reversed lordosis, or abnormal kyphosis — 20 percent. Forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine greater than 60 degrees but not greater than 85 degrees; or, forward flexion of the cervical spine greater than 30 degrees but not greater than 40 degrees; or, combined range of motion of the thoracolumbar spine greater than 120 degrees but not greater than 235 degrees; or, combined range of motion of the cervical spine greater than 170 degrees but not greater than 335 degrees; or, muscle spasm, guarding, or localized tenderness not resulting in abnormal gait or abnormal spinal contour; or, vertebral body fracture with loss of 50 percent or more of the height — 10 percent. Note (1): Evaluate any associated objective neurologic abnormalities, including, but not limited to, bowel or bladder impairment, separately, under an appropriate diagnostic code. Note (2): (See also Plate V.) For VA compensation purposes, normal forward flexion of the cervical spine is zero to 45 degrees, extension is zero to 45 degrees, left and right lateral flexion are zero to 45 degrees, and left and right lateral rotation are zero to 80 degrees. Normal forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine is zero to 90 degrees, extension is zero to 30 degrees, left and right lateral flexion are zero to 30 degrees, and left and right lateral rotation are zero to 30 degrees. The combined range of motion refers to the sum of the range of forward flexion, extension, left and right lateral flexion, and left and right rotation. The normal combined range of motion of the cervical spine is 340 degrees and of the thoracolumbar spine is 240 degrees. The normal ranges of motion for each component of spinal motion provided in this note are the maximum that can be used for calculation of the combined range of motion. Note (3): In exceptional cases, an examiner may state that because of age, body habitus, neurologic disease, or other factors not the result of disease or injury of the spine, the range of motion of the spine in a particular individual should be considered normal for that individual, even though it does not conform to the normal range of motion stated in Note (2). Provided that the examiner supplies an explanation, the examiner's assessment that the range of motion is normal for that individual will be accepted. Note (4): Round each range of motion measurement to the nearest five degrees. Note (5): For VA compensation purposes, unfavorable ankylosis is a condition in which the entire cervical spine, the entire thoracolumbar spine, or the entire spine is fixed in flexion or extension, and the ankylosis results in one or more of the following: difficulty walking because of a limited line of vision; restricted opening of the mouth and chewing; breathing limited to diaphragmatic respiration; gastrointestinal symptoms due to pressure of the costal margin on the abdomen; dyspnea or dysphagia; atlantoaxial or cervical subluxation or dislocation; or neurologic symptoms due to nerve root stretching. Fixation of a spinal segment in neutral position (zero degrees) always represents favorable ankylosis. Note (6): Separately evaluate disability of the thoracolumbar and cervical spine segments, except when there is unfavorable ankylosis of both segments, which will be rated as a single disability. --- ## DC 5243 — Intervertebral disc syndrome: Assign this diagnostic code only when there is disc herniation with compression and/or irritation of the adjacent nerve root; assign diagnostic code 5242 for all other disc diagnoses · The Spine {#5243} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5243* Official source: 5243 Intervertebral disc syndrome: Assign this diagnostic code only when there is disc herniation with compression and/or irritation of the adjacent nerve root; assign diagnostic code 5242 for all other disc diagnoses. Evaluate intervertebral disc syndrome (preoperatively or postoperatively) either under the General Rating Formula for Diseases and Injuries of the Spine or under the Formula for Rating Intervertebral Disc Syndrome Based on Incapacitating Episodes, whichever method results in the higher evaluation when all disabilities are combined under § 4.25. General Rating Formula for Diseases and Injuries of the Spine: (For diagnostic codes 5235 to 5243 unless 5243 is evaluated under the Formula for Rating Intervertebral Disc Syndrome Based on Incapacitating Episodes): With or without symptoms such as pain (whether or not it radiates), stiffness, or aching in the area of the spine affected by residuals of injury or disease Unfavorable ankylosis of the entire spine — 100 percent. Unfavorable ankylosis of the entire thoracolumbar spine — 50 percent. Unfavorable ankylosis of the entire cervical spine; or, forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine 30 degrees or less; or, favorable ankylosis of the entire thoracolumbar spine — 40 percent. Forward flexion of the cervical spine 15 degrees or less; or, favorable ankylosis of the entire cervical spine — 30 percent. Forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine greater than 30 degrees but not greater than 60 degrees; or, forward flexion of the cervical spine greater than 15 degrees but not greater than 30 degrees; or, the combined range of motion of the thoracolumbar spine not greater than 120 degrees; or, the combined range of motion of the cervical spine not greater than 170 degrees; or, muscle spasm or guarding severe enough to result in an abnormal gait or abnormal spinal contour such as scoliosis, reversed lordosis, or abnormal kyphosis — 20 percent. Forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine greater than 60 degrees but not greater than 85 degrees; or, forward flexion of the cervical spine greater than 30 degrees but not greater than 40 degrees; or, combined range of motion of the thoracolumbar spine greater than 120 degrees but not greater than 235 degrees; or, combined range of motion of the cervical spine greater than 170 degrees but not greater than 335 degrees; or, muscle spasm, guarding, or localized tenderness not resulting in abnormal gait or abnormal spinal contour; or, vertebral body fracture with loss of 50 percent or more of the height — 10 percent. Note (1): Evaluate any associated objective neurologic abnormalities, including, but not limited to, bowel or bladder impairment, separately, under an appropriate diagnostic code. Note (2): (See also Plate V.) For VA compensation purposes, normal forward flexion of the cervical spine is zero to 45 degrees, extension is zero to 45 degrees, left and right lateral flexion are zero to 45 degrees, and left and right lateral rotation are zero to 80 degrees. Normal forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine is zero to 90 degrees, extension is zero to 30 degrees, left and right lateral flexion are zero to 30 degrees, and left and right lateral rotation are zero to 30 degrees. The combined range of motion refers to the sum of the range of forward flexion, extension, left and right lateral flexion, and left and right rotation. The normal combined range of motion of the cervical spine is 340 degrees and of the thoracolumbar spine is 240 degrees. The normal ranges of motion for each component of spinal motion provided in this note are the maximum that can be used for calculation of the combined range of motion. Note (3): In exceptional cases, an examiner may state that because of age, body habitus, neurologic disease, or other factors not the result of disease or injury of the spine, the range of motion of the spine in a particular individual should be considered normal for that individual, even though it does not conform to the normal range of motion stated in Note (2). Provided that the examiner supplies an explanation, the examiner's assessment that the range of motion is normal for that individual will be accepted. Note (4): Round each range of motion measurement to the nearest five degrees. Note (5): For VA compensation purposes, unfavorable ankylosis is a condition in which the entire cervical spine, the entire thoracolumbar spine, or the entire spine is fixed in flexion or extension, and the ankylosis results in one or more of the following: difficulty walking because of a limited line of vision; restricted opening of the mouth and chewing; breathing limited to diaphragmatic respiration; gastrointestinal symptoms due to pressure of the costal margin on the abdomen; dyspnea or dysphagia; atlantoaxial or cervical subluxation or dislocation; or neurologic symptoms due to nerve root stretching. Fixation of a spinal segment in neutral position (zero degrees) always represents favorable ankylosis. Note (6): Separately evaluate disability of the thoracolumbar and cervical spine segments, except when there is unfavorable ankylosis of both segments, which will be rated as a single disability. --- ## DC 5244 — Traumatic paralysis, complete · The Spine {#5244} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5244* Official source: 5244 Traumatic paralysis, complete: Paraplegia: Rate under diagnostic code 5110. Quadriplegia: Rate separately under diagnostic codes 5109 and 5110 and combine evaluations in accordance with § 4.25. Note: If traumatic paralysis does not cause loss of use of both hands or both feet, it is incomplete paralysis. Evaluate residuals of incomplete traumatic paralysis under the appropriate diagnostic code (e.g., § 4.124a, Diseases of the Peripheral Nerves). --- ## DC 5250 — Hip, ankylosis of · The Hip and Thigh {#5250} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5250* Official source: 5250 Hip, ankylosis of: Unfavorable, extremely unfavorable ankylosis, the foot not reaching ground, crutches necessitated — 90 percent. Intermediate — 70 percent. Favorable, in flexion at an angle between 20° and 40°, and slight adduction or abduction — 60 percent. --- ## DC 5251 — Thigh, limitation of extension of · The Hip and Thigh {#5251} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5251* Official source: 5251 Thigh, limitation of extension of: Extension limited to 5° — 10 percent. --- ## DC 5252 — Thigh, limitation of flexion of · The Hip and Thigh {#5252} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5252* Official source: 5252 Thigh, limitation of flexion of: Flexion limited to 10° — 40 percent. Flexion limited to 20° — 30 percent. Flexion limited to 30° — 20 percent. Flexion limited to 45° — 10 percent. --- ## DC 5253 — Thigh, impairment of · The Hip and Thigh {#5253} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5253* Official source: 5253 Thigh, impairment of: Limitation of abduction of, motion lost beyond 10° — 20 percent. Limitation of adduction of, cannot cross legs — 10 percent. Limitation of rotation of, cannot toe-out more than 15°, affected leg — 10 percent. --- ## DC 5254 — Hip, flail joint · The Hip and Thigh {#5254} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5254* Official source: 5254 Hip, flail joint — 80 percent. --- ## DC 5255 — Femur, impairment of · The Hip and Thigh {#5255} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5255* Official source: 5255 Femur, impairment of: Fracture of shaft or anatomical neck of: With nonunion, with loose motion (spiral or oblique fracture) — 80 percent. With nonunion, without loose motion, weight bearing preserved with aid of brace — 60 percent. Fracture of surgical neck of, with false joint — 60 percent. Malunion of: Evaluate under diagnostic codes 5256, 5257, 5260, or 5261 for the knee, or 5250-5254 for the hip, whichever results in the highest evaluation. Entitled to special monthly compensation. --- ## DC 5256 — Knee, ankylosis of · The Knee and Leg {#5256} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5256* Official source: 5256 Knee, ankylosis of: Extremely unfavorable, in flexion at an angle of 45° or more — 60 percent. In flexion between 20° and 45° — 50 percent. In flexion between 10° and 20° — 40 percent. Favorable angle in full extension, or in slight flexion between 0° and 10° — 30 percent. --- ## DC 5257 — Knee, other impairment of · The Knee and Leg {#5257} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5257* Official source: 5257 Knee, other impairment of: Recurrent subluxation or instability: Unrepaired or failed repair of complete ligament tear causing persistent instability, and a medical provider prescribes both an assistive device (e.g., cane(s), crutch(es), walker) and bracing for ambulation — 30 percent. One of the following: (a) Sprain, incomplete ligament tear, or repaired complete ligament tear causing persistent instability, and a medical provider prescribes a brace and/or assistive device (e.g., cane(s), crutch(es), walker) for ambulation. (b) Unrepaired or failed repair of complete ligament tear causing persistent instability, and a medical provider prescribes either an assistive device (e.g., cane(s), crutch(es), walker) or bracing for ambulation — 20 percent. Sprain, incomplete ligament tear, or complete ligament tear (repaired, unrepaired, or failed repair) causing persistent instability, without a prescription from a medical provider for an assistive device (e.g., cane(s), crutch(es), walker) or bracing for ambulation — 10 percent. Patellar instability: A diagnosed condition involving the patellofemoral complex with recurrent instability after surgical repair that requires a prescription by a medical provider for a brace and either a cane or a walker — 30 percent. A diagnosed condition involving the patellofemoral complex with recurrent instability after surgical repair that requires a prescription by a medical provider for one of the following: A brace, cane, or walker — 20 percent. A diagnosed condition involving the patellofemoral complex with recurrent instability (with or without history of surgical repair) that does not require a prescription from a medical provider for a brace, cane, or walker — 10 percent. Note (1): For patellar instability, the patellofemoral complex consists of the quadriceps tendon, the patella, and the patellar tendon. Note (2): A surgical procedure that does not involve repair of one or more patellofemoral components that contribute to the underlying instability shall not qualify as surgical repair for patellar instability (including, but not limited to, arthroscopy to remove loose bodies and joint aspiration). --- ## DC 5258 — Cartilage, semilunar, dislocated, with frequent episodes of “locking,” pain, and effusion into the joint · The Knee and Leg {#5258} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5258* Official source: 5258 Cartilage, semilunar, dislocated, with frequent episodes of “locking,” pain, and effusion into the joint — 20 percent. --- ## DC 5259 — Cartilage, semilunar, removal of, symptomatic · The Knee and Leg {#5259} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5259* Official source: 5259 Cartilage, semilunar, removal of, symptomatic — 10 percent. --- ## DC 5260 — Leg, limitation of flexion of · The Knee and Leg {#5260} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5260* Official source: 5260 Leg, limitation of flexion of: Flexion limited to 15° — 30 percent. Flexion limited to 30° — 20 percent. Flexion limited to 45° — 10 percent. Flexion limited to 60° — 0 percent. --- ## DC 5261 — Leg, limitation of extension of · The Knee and Leg {#5261} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5261* Official source: 5261 Leg, limitation of extension of: Extension limited to 45° — 50 percent. Extension limited to 30° — 40 percent. Extension limited to 20° — 30 percent. Extension limited to 15° — 20 percent. Extension limited to 10° — 10 percent. Extension limited to 5° — 0 percent. --- ## DC 5262 — Tibia and fibula, impairment of · The Knee and Leg {#5262} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5262* Official source: 5262 Tibia and fibula, impairment of: Nonunion of, with loose motion, requiring brace — 40 percent. Malunion of: Evaluate under diagnostic codes 5256, 5257, 5260, or 5261 for the knee, or 5270 or 5271 for the ankle, whichever results in the highest evaluation. Medial tibial stress syndrome (MTSS), or shin splints: Requiring treatment for no less than 12 consecutive months, and unresponsive to surgery and either shoe orthotics or other conservative treatment, both lower extremities — 30 percent. Requiring treatment for no less than 12 consecutive months, and unresponsive to surgery and either shoe orthotics or other conservative treatment, one lower extremity — 20 percent. Requiring treatment for no less than 12 consecutive months, and unresponsive to either shoe orthotics or other conservative treatment, one or both lower extremities — 10 percent. Treatment less than 12 consecutive months, one or both lower extremities — 0 percent. --- ## DC 5263 — Genu recurvatum (acquired, traumatic, with weakness and insecurity in weight-bearing objectively demonstrated) · The Knee and Leg {#5263} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5263* Official source: 5263 Genu recurvatum (acquired, traumatic, with weakness and insecurity in weight-bearing objectively demonstrated) — 10 percent. --- ## DC 5269 — Plantar fasciitis · The Foot {#5269} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5269* Official source: 5269 Plantar fasciitis: No relief from both non-surgical and surgical treatment, bilateral — 30 percent. No relief from both non-surgical and surgical treatment, unilateral — 20 percent. Otherwise, unilateral or bilateral — 10 percent. Note (1): With actual loss of use of the foot, rate 40 percent Note (2): If a veteran has been recommended for surgical intervention, but is not a surgical candidate, evaluate under the 20 percent or 30 percent criteria, whichever is applicable --- ## DC 5270 — Ankle, ankylosis of · The Ankle {#5270} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5270* Official source: 5270 Ankle, ankylosis of: In plantar flexion at more than 40°, or in dorsiflexion at more than 10° or with abduction, adduction, inversion or eversion deformity — 40 percent. In plantar flexion, between 30° and 40°, or in dorsiflexion, between 0° and 10° — 30 percent. In plantar flexion, less than 30° — 20 percent. --- ## DC 5271 — Ankle, limited motion of · The Ankle {#5271} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5271* Official source: 5271 Ankle, limited motion of: Marked (less than 5 degrees dorsiflexion or less than 10 degrees plantar flexion) — 20 percent. Moderate (less than 15 degrees dorsiflexion or less than 30 degrees plantar flexion) — 10 percent. --- ## DC 5272 — Subastragalar or tarsal joint, ankylosis of · The Ankle {#5272} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5272* Official source: 5272 Subastragalar or tarsal joint, ankylosis of: In poor weight-bearing position — 20 percent. In good weight-bearing position — 10 percent. --- ## DC 5273 — Os calcis or astragalus, malunion of · The Ankle {#5273} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5273* Official source: 5273 Os calcis or astragalus, malunion of: Marked deformity — 20 percent. Moderate deformity — 10 percent. --- ## DC 5274 — Astragalectomy · The Ankle {#5274} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5274* Official source: 5274 Astragalectomy — 20 percent. --- ## DC 5275 — Bones, of the lower extremity, shortening of · Shortening of the Lower Extremity {#5275} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5275* Official source: 5275 Bones, of the lower extremity, shortening of: Over 4 inches (10.2 cms.) — 60 percent. 3⁄2 to 4 inches (8.9 cms. to 10.2 cms.) — 50 percent. 3 to 3⁄2 inches (7.6 cms. to 8.9 cms.) — 40 percent. 2⁄2 to 3 inches (6.4 cms. to 7.6 cms.) — 30 percent. 2 to 2⁄2 inches (5.1 cms. to 6.4 cms.) — 20 percent. 1⁄4 to 2 inches (3.2 cms. to 5.1 cms.) — 10 percent. Note: Measure both lower extremities from anterior superior spine of the ilium to the internal malleolus of the tibia. Not to be combined with other ratings for fracture or faulty union in the same extremity. Also entitled to special monthly compensation. --- ## DC 5276 — Flatfoot, acquired · The Foot {#5276} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5276* Official source: 5276 Flatfoot, acquired: Pronounced; marked pronation, extreme tenderness of plantar surfaces of the feet, marked inward displacement and severe spasm of the tendo achillis on manipulation, not improved by orthopedic shoes or appliances Bilateral — 50 percent. Unilateral — 30 percent. Severe; objective evidence of marked deformity (pronation, abduction, etc.), pain on manipulation and use accentuated, indication of swelling on use, characteristic callosities: Bilateral — 30 percent. Unilateral — 20 percent. Moderate; weight-bearing line over or medial to great toe, inward bowing of the tendo achillis, pain on manipulation and use of the feet, bilateral or unilateral — 10 percent. Mild; symptoms relieved by built-up shoe or arch support — 0 percent. --- ## DC 5277 — Weak foot, bilateral · The Foot {#5277} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5277* Official source: 5277 Weak foot, bilateral: A symptomatic condition secondary to many constitutional conditions, characterized by atrophy of the musculature, disturbed circulation, and weakness: Rate the underlying condition, minimum rating — 10 percent. --- ## DC 5278 — Claw foot (pes cavus), acquired · The Foot {#5278} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5278* Official source: 5278 Claw foot (pes cavus), acquired: Marked contraction of plantar fascia with dropped forefoot, all toes hammer toes, very painful callosities, marked varus deformity: Bilateral — 50 percent. Unilateral — 30 percent. All toes tending to dorsiflexion, limitation of dorsiflexion at ankle to right angle, shortened plantar fascia, and marked tenderness under metatarsal heads: Bilateral — 30 percent. Unilateral — 20 percent. Great toe dorsiflexed, some limitation of dorsiflexion at ankle, definite tenderness under metatarsal heads: Bilateral — 10 percent. Unilateral — 10 percent. Slight — 0 percent. --- ## DC 5279 — Metatarsalgia, anterior (Morton's disease), unilateral, or bilateral · The Foot {#5279} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5279* Official source: 5279 Metatarsalgia, anterior (Morton's disease), unilateral, or bilateral — 10 percent. --- ## DC 5280 — Hallux valgus, unilateral · The Foot {#5280} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5280* Official source: 5280 Hallux valgus, unilateral: Operated with resection of metatarsal head — 10 percent. Severe, if equivalent to amputation of great toe — 10 percent. --- ## DC 5281 — Hallux rigidus, unilateral, severe · The Foot {#5281} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5281* Official source: 5281 Hallux rigidus, unilateral, severe: Rate as hallux valgus, severe. Note: Not to be combined with claw foot ratings. --- ## DC 5282 — Hammer toe · The Foot {#5282} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5282* Official source: 5282 Hammer toe: All toes, unilateral without claw foot — 10 percent. Single toes — 0 percent. --- ## DC 5283 — Tarsal, or metatarsal bones, malunion of, or nonunion of · The Foot {#5283} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5283* Official source: 5283 Tarsal, or metatarsal bones, malunion of, or nonunion of: Severe — 30 percent. Moderately severe — 20 percent. Moderate — 10 percent. Note: With actual loss of use of the foot, rate 40 percent. --- ## DC 5284 — Foot injuries, other · The Foot {#5284} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5284* Official source: 5284 Foot injuries, other: Severe — 30 percent. Moderately severe — 20 percent. Moderate — 10 percent. Note: With actual loss of use of the foot, rate 40 percent. --- ## DC 5296 — Skull, loss of part of, both inner and outer tables · The Skull {#5296} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5296* Official source: 5296 Skull, loss of part of, both inner and outer tables: With brain hernia — 80 percent. Without brain hernia: Area larger than size of a 50-cent piece or 1.140 in (7.355 cm ) — 50 percent. Area intermediate — 30 percent. Area smaller than the size of a 25-cent piece or 0.716 in (4.619 cm ) — 10 percent. Note: Rate separately for intracranial complications. --- ## DC 5297 — Ribs, removal of · The Ribs {#5297} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5297* Official source: 5297 Ribs, removal of: More than six — 50 percent. Five or six — 40 percent. Three or four — 30 percent. Two — 20 percent. One or resection of two or more ribs without regeneration — 10 percent. Note (1): The rating for rib resection or removal is not to be applied with ratings for purrulent pleurisy, lobectomy, pneumonectomy or injuries of pleural cavity. Note (2): However, rib resection will be considered as rib removal in thoracoplasty performed for collapse therapy or to accomplish obliteration of space and will be combined with the rating for lung collapse, or with the rating for lobectomy, pneumonectomy or the graduated ratings for pulmonary tuberculosis. --- ## DC 5298 — Coccyx, removal of · The Coccyx {#5298} *38 C.F.R. § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5298* Official source: 5298 Coccyx, removal of: Partial or complete, with painful residuals — 10 percent. Without painful residuals — 0 percent.