This rating schedule is primarily a guide in the evaluation of disability resulting from all types of diseases and injuries encountered as a result of or incident to military service. The percentage ratings represent as far as can practicably be determined the average impairment in earning capacity resulting from such diseases and injuries and their residual conditions in civil occupations. Generally, the degrees of disability specified are considered adequate to compensate for considerable loss of working time from exacerbations or illnesses proportionate to the severity of the several grades of disability. For the application of this schedule, accurate and fully descriptive medical examinations are required, with emphasis upon the limitation of activity imposed by the disabling condition. Over a period of many years, a veteran's disability claim may require reratings in accordance with changes in laws, medical knowledge and his or her physical or mental condition. It is thus essential, both in the examination and in the evaluation of disability, that each disability be viewed in relation to its history.
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SCHEDULE FOR RATING DISABILITIES
Different examiners, at different times, will not describe the same disability in the same language. Features of the disability which must have persisted unchanged may be overlooked or a change for the better or worse may not be accurately appreciated or described. It is the responsibility of the rating specialist to interpret reports of examination in the light of the whole recorded history, reconciling the various reports into a consistent picture so that the current rating may accurately reflect the elements of disability present. Each disability must be considered from the point of view of the veteran working or seeking work. If a diagnosis is not supported by the findings on the examination report or if the report does not contain sufficient detail, it is incumbent upon the rating board to return the report as inadequate for evaluation purposes.
It is the defined and consistently applied policy of the Department of Veterans Affairs to administer the law under a broad interpretation, consistent, however, with the facts shown in every case. When after careful consideration of all procurable and assembled data, a reasonable doubt arises regarding the degree of disability such doubt will be resolved in favor of the claimant. See § 3.102 of this chapter.
The element of the weight to be accorded the character of the veteran's service is but one factor entering into the considerations of the rating boards in arriving at determinations of the evaluation of disability. Every element in any way affecting the probative value to be assigned to the evidence in each individual claim must be thoroughly and conscientiously studied by each member of the rating board in the light of the established policies of the Department of Veterans Affairs to the end that decisions will be equitable and just as contemplated by the requirements of the law.
Where there is a question as to which of two evaluations shall be applied, the higher evaluation will be assigned if the disability picture more nearly approximates the criteria required for that rating. Otherwise, the lower rating will be assigned.
Mere congenital or developmental defects, absent, displaced or supernumerary parts, refractive error of the eye, personality disorder and mental deficiency are not diseases or injuries in the meaning of applicable legislation for disability compensation purposes.
The basis of disability evaluations is the ability of the body as a whole, or of the psyche, or of a system or organ of the body to function under the ordinary conditions of daily life including employment. Whether the upper or lower extremities, the back or abdominal wall, the eyes or ears, or the cardiovascular, digestive, or other system, or psyche are affected, evaluations are based upon lack of usefulness, of these parts or systems, especially in self-support. This imposes upon the medical examiner the responsibility of furnishing, in addition to the etiological, anatomical, pathological, laboratory and prognostic data required for ordinary medical classification, full description of the effects of disability upon the person's ordinary activity. In this connection, it will be remembered that a person may be too disabled to engage in employment although he or she is up and about and fairly comfortable at home or upon limited activity.
The repercussion upon a current rating of service connection when change is made of a previously assigned diagnosis or etiology must be kept in mind. The aim should be the reconciliation and continuance of the diagnosis or etiology upon which service connection for the disability had been granted. The relevant principle enunciated in § 4.125, entitled “Diagnosis of mental disorders,” should have careful attention in this connection. When any change in evaluation is to be made, the rating agency should assure itself that there has been an actual change in the conditions, for better or worse, and not merely a difference in thoroughness of the examination or in use of descriptive terms. This will not, of course, preclude the correction of erroneous ratings, nor will it preclude assignment of a rating in conformity with § 4.7.
The evaluation of the same disability under various diagnoses is to be avoided. Disability from injuries to the muscles, nerves, and joints of an extremity may overlap to a great extent, so that special rules are included in the appropriate bodily system for their evaluation. Dyspnea, tachycardia, nervousness, fatigability, etc., may result from many causes; some may be service connected, others, not. Both the use of manifestations not resulting from service-connected disease or injury in establishing the service-connected evaluation, and the evaluation of the same manifestation under different diagnoses are to be avoided.
The ability to overcome the handicap of disability varies widely among individuals. The rating, however, is based primarily upon the average impairment in earning capacity, that is, upon the economic or industrial handicap which must be overcome and not from individual success in overcoming it. However, full consideration must be given to unusual physical or mental effects in individual cases, to peculiar effects of occupational activities, to defects in physical or mental endowment preventing the usual amount of success in overcoming the handicap of disability and to the effect of combinations of disability. Total disability will be considered to exist when there is present any impairment of mind or body which is sufficient to render it impossible for the average person to follow a substantially gainful occupation; Provided, That permanent total disability shall be taken to exist when the impairment is reasonably certain to continue throughout the life of the disabled person. The following will be considered to be permanent total disability: the permanent loss of the use of both hands, or of both feet, or of one hand and one foot, or of the sight of both eyes, or becoming permanently helpless or permanently bedridden. Other total disability ratings are scheduled in the various bodily systems of this schedule.
(a) Total disability ratings for compensation may be assigned, where the schedular rating is less than total, when the disabled person is, in the judgment of the rating agency, unable to secure or follow a substantially gainful occupation as a result of service-connected disabilities: Provided That, if there is only one such disability, this disability shall be ratable at 60 percent or more, and that, if there are two or more disabilities, there shall be at least one disability ratable at 40 percent or more, and sufficient additional disability to bring the combined rating to 70 percent or more. For the above purpose of one 60 percent disability, or one 40 percent disability in combination, the following will be considered as one disability: (1) Disabilities of one or both upper extremities, or of one or both lower extremities, including the bilateral factor, if applicable, (2) disabilities resulting from common etiology or a single accident, (3) disabilities affecting a single body system, e.g. orthopedic, digestive, respiratory, cardiovascular-renal, neuropsychiatric, (4) multiple injuries incurred in action, or (5) multiple disabilities incurred as a prisoner of war. It is provided further that the existence or degree of nonservice-connected disabilities or previous unemployability status will be disregarded where the percentages referred to in this paragraph for the service-connected disability or disabilities are met and in the judgment of the rating agency such service-connected disabilities render the veteran unemployable. Marginal employment shall not be considered substantially gainful employment. For purposes of this section, marginal employment generally shall be deemed to exist when a veteran's earned annual income does not exceed the amount established by the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, as the poverty threshold for one person. Marginal employment may also be held to exist, on a facts found basis (includes but is not limited to employment in a protected environment such as a family business or sheltered workshop), when earned annual income exceeds the poverty threshold. Consideration shall be given in all claims to the nature of the employment and the reason for termination.
(Authority: 38 U.S.C. 501)
(b) It is the established policy of the Department of Veterans Affairs that all veterans who are unable to secure and follow a substantially gainful occupation by reason of service-connected disabilities shall be rated totally disabled. Therefore, rating boards should submit to the Director, Compensation Service, for extra-schedular consideration all cases of veterans who are unemployable by reason of service-connected disabilities, but who fail to meet the percentage standards set forth in paragraph (a) of this section. The rating board will include a full statement as to the veteran's service-connected disabilities, employment history, educational and vocational attainment and all other factors having a bearing on the issue.
All veterans who are basically eligible and who are unable to secure and follow a substantially gainful occupation by reason of disabilities which are likely to be permanent shall be rated as permanently and totally disabled. For the purpose of pension, the permanence of the percentage requirements of § 4.16 is a requisite. When the percentage requirements are met, and the disabilities involved are of a permanent nature, a rating of permanent and total disability will be assigned if the veteran is found to be unable to secure and follow substantially gainful employment by reason of such disability. Prior employment or unemployment status is immaterial if in the judgment of the rating board the veteran's disabilities render him or her unemployable. In making such determinations, the following guidelines will be used:
(a) Marginal employment, for example, as a self-employed farmer or other person, while employed in his or her own business, or at odd jobs or while employed at less than half the usual remuneration will not be considered incompatible with a determination of unemployability, if the restriction, as to securing or retaining better employment, is due to disability.
(b) Claims of all veterans who fail to meet the percentage standards but who meet the basic entitlement criteria and are unemployable, will be referred by the rating board to the Veterans Service Center Manager or the Pension Management Center Manager under § 3.321(b)(2) of this chapter.
A permanent and total disability rating under the provisions of §§ 4.15, 4.16 and 4.17 will not be precluded by reason of the coexistence of misconduct disability when:
(a) A veteran, regardless of employment status, also has innocently acquired 100 percent disability, or
(b) Where unemployable, the veteran has other disabilities innocently acquired which meet the percentage requirements of §§ 4.16 and 4.17 and would render, in the judgment of the rating agency, the average person unable to secure or follow a substantially gainful occupation.
A veteran may be considered as unemployable upon termination of employment which was provided on account of disability, or in which special consideration was given on account of the same, when it is satisfactorily shown that he or she is unable to secure further employment. With amputations, sequelae of fractures and other residuals of traumatism shown to be of static character, a showing of continuous unemployability from date of incurrence, or the date the condition reached the stabilized level, is a general requirement in order to establish the fact that present unemployability is the result of the disability. However, consideration is to be given to the circumstances of employment in individual claims, and, if the employment was only occasional, intermittent, tryout or unsuccessful, or eventually terminated on account of the disability, present unemployability may be attributed to the static disability. Where unemployability for pension previously has been established on the basis of combined service-connected and nonservice-connected disabilities and the service-connected disability or disabilities have increased in severity, § 4.16 is for consideration.
Age may not be considered as a factor in evaluating service-connected disability; and unemployability, in service-connected claims, associated with advancing age or intercurrent disability, may not be used as a basis for a total disability rating. Age, as such, is a factor only in evaluations of disability not resulting from service, i.e. , for the purposes of pension.
When an unlisted condition is encountered it will be permissible to rate under a closely related disease or injury in which not only the functions affected, but the anatomical localization and symptomatology are closely analogous. Conjectural analogies will be avoided, as will the use of analogous ratings for conditions of doubtful diagnosis, or for those not fully supported by clinical and laboratory findings. Nor will ratings assigned to organic diseases and injuries be assigned by analogy to conditions of functional origin.
In view of the number of atypical instances it is not expected, especially with the more fully described grades of disabilities, that all cases will show all the findings specified. Findings sufficiently characteristic to identify the disease and the disability therefrom, and above all, coordination of rating with impairment of function will, however, be expected in all instances.
In cases involving aggravation by active service, the rating will reflect only the degree of disability over and above the degree existing at the time of entrance into the active service, whether the particular condition was noted at the time of entrance into the active service, or it is determined upon the evidence of record to have existed at that time. It is necessary therefore, in all cases of this character to deduct from the present degree of disability the degree, if ascertainable, of the disability existing at the time of entrance into active service, in terms of the rating schedule, except that if the disability is total (100 percent) no deduction will be made. The resulting difference will be recorded on the rating sheet. If the degree of disability at the time of entrance into the service is not ascertainable in terms of the schedule, no deduction will be made.
It is to be remembered that the majority of applicants are disabled persons who are seeking benefits of law to which they believe themselves entitled. In the exercise of his or her functions, rating officers must not allow their personal feelings to intrude; an antagonistic, critical, or even abusive attitude on the part of a claimant should not in any instance influence the officers in the handling of the case. Fairness and courtesy must at all times be shown to applicants by all employees whose duties bring them in contact, directly or indirectly, with the Department's claimants.
All correspondence relative to the interpretation of the schedule for rating disabilities, requests for advisory opinions, questions regarding lack of clarity or application to individual cases involving unusual difficulties, will be addressed to the Director, Compensation Service. A clear statement will be made of the point or points upon which information is desired, and the complete case file will be simultaneously forwarded to Central Office. Rating agencies will assure themselves that the recent report of physical examination presents an adequate picture of the claimant's condition. Claims in regard to which the schedule evaluations are considered inadequate or excessive, and errors in the schedule will be similarly brought to attention.
Table I, Combined Ratings Table, results from the consideration of the efficiency of the individual as affected first by the most disabling condition, then by the less disabling condition, then by other less disabling conditions, if any, in the order of severity. Thus, a person having a 60 percent disability is considered 40 percent efficient. Proceeding from this 40 percent efficiency, the effect of a further 30 percent disability is to leave only 70 percent of the efficiency remaining after consideration of the first disability, or 28 percent efficiency altogether. The individual is thus 72 percent disabled, as shown in table I opposite 60 percent and under 30 percent.
(a) To use table I, the disabilities will first be arranged in the exact order of their severity, beginning with the greatest disability and then combined with use of table I as hereinafter indicated. For example, if there are two disabilities, the degree of one disability will be read in the left column and the degree of the other in the top row, whichever is appropriate. The figures appearing in the space where the column and row intersect will represent the combined value of the two. This combined value will then be converted to the nearest number divisible by 10, and combined values ending in 5 will be adjusted upward. Thus, with a 50 percent disability and a 30 percent disability, the combined value will be found to be 65 percent, but the 65 percent must be converted to 70 percent to represent the final degree of disability. Similarly, with a disability of 40 percent, and another disability of 20 percent, the combined value is found to be 52 percent, but the 52 percent must be converted to the nearest degree divisible by 10, which is 50 percent. If there are more than two disabilities, the disabilities will also be arranged in the exact order of their severity and the combined value for the first two will be found as previously described for two disabilities. The combined value, exactly as found in table I, will be combined with the degree of the third disability (in order of severity). The combined value for the three disabilities will be found in the space where the column and row intersect, and if there are only three disabilities will be converted to the nearest degree divisible by 10, adjusting final 5's upward. Thus, if there are three disabilities ratable at 60 percent, 40 percent, and 20 percent, respectively, the combined value for the first two will be found opposite 60 and under 40 and is 76 percent. This 76 will be combined with 20 and the combined value for the three is 81 percent. This combined value will be converted to the nearest degree divisible by 10 which is 80 percent. The same procedure will be employed when there are four or more disabilities. (See table I).
(b) Except as otherwise provided in this schedule, the disabilities arising from a single disease entity, e.g., arthritis, multiple sclerosis, cerebrovascular accident, etc., are to be rated separately as are all other disabiling conditions, if any. All disabilities are then to be combined as described in paragraph (a) of this section. The conversion to the nearest degree divisible by 10 will be done only once per rating decision, will follow the combining of all disabilities, and will be the last procedure in determining the combined degree of disability.
Table I—Combined Ratings Table
[10 combined with 10 is 19]
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
19
27
35
43
51
60
68
76
84
92
20
28
36
44
52
60
68
76
84
92
21
29
37
45
53
61
68
76
84
92
22
30
38
45
53
61
69
77
84
92
23
31
38
46
54
62
69
77
85
92
24
32
39
47
54
62
70
77
85
92
25
33
40
48
55
63
70
78
85
93
26
33
41
48
56
63
70
78
85
93
27
34
42
49
56
64
71
78
85
93
28
35
42
50
57
64
71
78
86
93
29
36
43
50
57
65
72
79
86
93
30
37
44
51
58
65
72
79
86
93
31
38
45
52
59
66
72
79
86
93
32
39
46
52
59
66
73
80
86
93
33
40
46
53
60
67
73
80
87
93
34
41
47
54
60
67
74
80
87
93
35
42
48
55
61
68
74
81
87
94
36
42
49
55
62
68
74
81
87
94
37
43
50
56
62
69
75
81
87
94
38
44
50
57
63
69
75
81
88
94
39
45
51
57
63
70
76
82
88
94
40
46
52
58
64
70
76
82
88
94
41
47
53
59
65
71
76
82
88
94
42
48
54
59
65
71
77
83
88
94
43
49
54
60
66
72
77
83
89
94
44
50
55
61
66
72
78
83
89
94
45
51
56
62
67
73
78
84
89
95
46
51
57
62
68
73
78
84
89
95
47
52
58
63
68
74
79
84
89
95
48
53
58
64
69
74
79
84
90
95
49
54
59
64
69
75
80
85
90
95
50
55
60
65
70
75
80
85
90
95
51
56
61
66
71
76
80
85
90
95
52
57
62
66
71
76
81
86
90
95
53
58
62
67
72
77
81
86
91
95
54
59
63
68
72
77
82
86
91
95
55
60
64
69
73
78
82
87
91
96
56
60
65
69
74
78
82
87
91
96
57
61
66
70
74
79
83
87
91
96
58
62
66
71
75
79
83
87
92
96
59
63
67
71
75
80
84
88
92
96
60
64
68
72
76
80
84
88
92
96
61
65
69
73
77
81
84
88
92
96
62
66
70
73
77
81
85
89
92
96
63
67
70
74
78
82
85
89
93
96
64
68
71
75
78
82
86
89
93
96
65
69
72
76
79
83
86
90
93
97
66
69
73
76
80
83
86
90
93
97
67
70
74
77
80
84
87
90
93
97
68
71
74
78
81
84
87
90
94
97
69
72
75
78
81
85
88
91
94
97
70
73
76
79
82
85
88
91
94
97
71
74
77
80
83
86
88
91
94
97
72
75
78
80
83
86
89
92
94
97
73
76
78
81
84
87
89
92
95
97
74
77
79
82
84
87
90
92
95
97
75
78
80
83
85
88
90
93
95
98
76
78
81
83
86
88
90
93
95
98
77
79
82
84
86
89
91
93
95
98
78
80
82
85
87
89
91
93
96
98
79
81
83
85
87
90
92
94
96
98
80
82
84
86
88
90
92
94
96
98
81
83
85
87
89
91
92
94
96
98
82
84
86
87
89
91
93
95
96
98
83
85
86
88
90
92
93
95
97
98
84
86
87
89
90
92
94
95
97
98
85
87
88
90
91
93
94
96
97
99
86
87
89
90
92
93
94
96
97
99
87
88
90
91
92
94
95
96
97
99
88
89
90
92
93
94
95
96
98
99
89
90
91
92
93
95
96
97
98
99
90
91
92
93
94
95
96
97
98
99
91
92
93
94
95
96
96
97
98
99
92
93
94
94
95
96
97
98
98
99
93
94
94
95
96
97
97
98
99
99
94
95
95
96
96
97
98
98
99
99
Except as provided in paragraph (d) of this section, when a partial disability results from disease or injury of both arms, or of both legs, or of paired skeletal muscles, the ratings for the disabilities of the right and left sides will be combined as usual, and 10 percent of this value will be added ( i.e., not combined) before proceeding with further combinations, or converting to degree of disability. The bilateral factor will be applied to such bilateral disabilities before other combinations are carried out and the rating for such disabilities including the bilateral factor in this section will be treated as one disability for the purpose of arranging in order of severity and for all further combinations. For example, with disabilities evaluated at 60 percent, 20 percent, 10 percent and 10 percent (with the two 10 percent evaluations being bilateral disabilities), the order of severity would be 60, 21 and 20. The 60 and 21 combine to 68 percent and the 68 and 20 combine to 74 percent, converted to 70 percent as the final degree of disability.
(a) Definitions. The use of the terms “arms” and “legs” is not intended to distinguish between the arm, forearm and hand, or the thigh, leg, and foot, but relates to the upper extremities and lower extremities as a whole. Thus with a compensable disability of the right thigh, for example, amputation, and one of the left foot, for example, pes planus, the bilateral factor applies, and similarly whenever there are compensable disabilities affecting use of paired extremities regardless of location or specified type of impairment.
(b) Procedure for four affected extremities. The correct procedure when applying the bilateral factor to disabilities affecting both upper extremities and both lower extremities is to combine the ratings of the disabilities affecting the 4 extremities in the order of their individual severity and apply the bilateral factor by adding, not combining, 10 percent of the combined value thus attained.
(c) Applicability. The bilateral factor is not applicable unless there is partial disability of compensable degree in each of 2 paired extremities, or paired skeletal muscles.
(d) Exception. In cases where the combined evaluation is lower than what could be achieved by not including one or more bilateral disabilities in the bilateral factor calculation, those bilateral disabilities will be removed from the bilateral factor calculation and combined separately, to achieve the combined evaluation most favorable to the veteran.
The diagnostic code numbers appearing opposite the listed ratable disabilities are arbitrary numbers for the purpose of showing the basis of the evaluation assigned and for statistical analysis in the Department of Veterans Affairs, and as will be observed, extend from 5000 to a possible 9999. Great care will be exercised in the selection of the applicable code number and in its citation on the rating sheet. No other numbers than these listed or hereafter furnished are to be employed for rating purposes, with an exception as described in this section, as to unlisted conditions. When an unlisted disease, injury, or residual condition is encountered, requiring rating by analogy, the diagnostic code number will be “built-up” as follows: The first 2 digits will be selected from that part of the schedule most closely identifying the part, or system, of the body involved; the last 2 digits will be “99” for all unlisted conditions. This procedure will facilitate a close check of new and unlisted conditions, rated by analogy. In the selection of code numbers, injuries will generally be represented by the number assigned to the residual condition on the basis of which the rating is determined. With diseases, preference is to be given to the number assigned to the disease itself; if the rating is determined on the basis of residual conditions, the number appropriate to the residual condition will be added, preceded by a hyphen. Thus, rheumatoid (atrophic) arthritis rated as ankylosis of the lumbar spine should be coded “5002-5240.” In this way, the exact source of each rating can be easily identified. In the citation of disabilities on rating sheets, the diagnostic terminology will be that of the medical examiner, with no attempt to translate the terms into schedule nomenclature. Residuals of diseases or therapeutic procedures will not be cited without reference to the basic disease.
The following ratings may be assigned, in lieu of ratings prescribed elsewhere, under the conditions stated for disability from any disease or injury. The prestabilization rating is not to be assigned in any case in which a total rating is immediately assignable under the regular provisions of the schedule or on the basis of individual unemployability. The prestabilization 50-percent rating is not to be used in any case in which a rating of 50 percent or more is immediately assignable under the regular provisions.
Rating
Unstabilized condition with severe disability—
Substantially gainful employment is not feasible or advisable
100
Unhealed or incompletely healed wounds or injuries—
Material impairment of employability likely
50
Note (1):
Department of Veterans Affairs examination is not required prior to assignment of prestabilization ratings; however, the fact that examination was accomplished will not preclude assignment of these benefits. Prestabilization ratings are for assignment in the immediate postdischarge period. They will continue for a 12-month period following discharge from service. However, prestabilization ratings may be changed to a regular schedular total rating or one authorizing a greater benefit at any time. In each prestabilization rating an examination will be requested to be accomplished not earlier than 6 months nor more than 12 months following discharge. In those prestabilization ratings in which following examination reduction in evaluation is found to be warranted, the higher evaluation will be continued to the end of the 12th month following discharge or to the end of the period provided under § 3.105(e) of this chapter, whichever is later. Special monthly compensation should be assigned concurrently in these cases whenever records are adequate to establish entitlement.
Note (2):
Diagnosis of disease, injury, or residuals will be cited, with diagnostic code number assigned from this rating schedule for conditions listed therein.
A total disability rating (100 percent) will be assigned without regard to other provisions of the rating schedule when it is established that a service-connected disability has required hospital treatment in a Department of Veterans Affairs or an approved hospital for a period in excess of 21 days or hospital observation at Department of Veterans Affairs expense for a service-connected disability for a period in excess of 21 days.
(a) Subject to the provisions of paragraphs (d), (e), and (f) of this section this increased rating will be effective the first day of continuous hospitalization and will be terminated effective the last day of the month of hospital discharge (regular discharge or release to non-bed care) or effective the last day of the month of termination of treatment or observation for the service-connected disability. A temporary release which is approved by an attending Department of Veterans Affairs physician as part of the treatment plan will not be considered an absence.
(1) An authorized absence in excess of 4 days which begins during the first 21 days of hospitalization will be regarded as the equivalent of hospital discharge effective the first day of such authorized absence. An authorized absence of 4 days or less which results in a total of more than 8 days of authorized absence during the first 21 days of hospitalization will be regarded as the equivalent of hospital discharge effective the ninth day of authorized absence.
(2) Following a period of hospitalization in excess of 21 days, an authorized absence in excess of 14 days or a third consecutive authorized absence of 14 days will be regarded as the equivalent of hospital discharge and will interrupt hospitalization effective on the last day of the month in which either the authorized absence in excess of 14 days or the third 14 day period begins, except where there is a finding that convalescence is required as provided by paragraph (e) or (f) of this section. The termination of these total ratings will not be subject to § 3.105(e) of this chapter.
(b) Notwithstanding that hospital admission was for disability not connected with service, if during such hospitalization, hospital treatment for a service-connected disability is instituted and continued for a period in excess of 21 days, the increase to a total rating will be granted from the first day of such treatment. If service connection for the disability under treatment is granted after hospital admission, the rating will be from the first day of hospitalization if otherwise in order.
(c) The assignment of a total disability rating on the basis of hospital treatment or observation will not preclude the assignment of a total disability rating otherwise in order under other provisions of the rating schedule, and consideration will be given to the propriety of such a rating in all instances and to the propriety of its continuance after discharge. Particular attention, with a view to proper rating under the rating schedule, is to be given to the claims of veterans discharged from hospital, regardless of length of hospitalization, with indications on the final summary of expected confinement to bed or house, or to inability to work with requirement of frequent care of physician or nurse at home.
(d) On these total ratings Department of Veterans Affairs regulations governing effective dates for increased benefits will control.
(e) The total hospital rating if convalescence is required may be continued for periods of 1, 2, or 3 months in addition to the period provided in paragraph (a) of this section.
(f) Extension of periods of 1, 2 or 3 months beyond the initial 3 months may be made upon approval of the Veterans Service Center Manager.
(g) Meritorious claims of veterans who are discharged from the hospital with less than the required number of days but need post-hospital care and a prolonged period of convalescence will be referred to the Director, Compensation Service, under § 3.321(b)(1) of this chapter.
A total disability rating (100 percent) will be assigned without regard to other provisions of the rating schedule when it is established by report at hospital discharge (regular discharge or release to non-bed care) or outpatient release that entitlement is warranted under paragraph (a) (1), (2) or (3) of this section effective the date of hospital admission or outpatient treatment and continuing for a period of 1, 2, or 3 months from the first day of the month following such hospital discharge or outpatient release. The termination of these total ratings will not be subject to § 3.105(e) of this chapter. Such total rating will be followed by appropriate schedular evaluations. When the evidence is inadequate to assign a schedular evaluation, a physical examination will be scheduled and considered prior to the termination of a total rating under this section.
(a) Total ratings will be assigned under this section if treatment of a service-connected disability resulted in:
(1) Surgery necessitating at least one month of convalescence (Effective as to outpatient surgery March 1, 1989.)
(2) Surgery with severe postoperative residuals such as incompletely healed surgical wounds, stumps of recent amputations, therapeutic immobilization of one major joint or more, application of a body cast, or the necessity for house confinement, or the necessity for continued use of a wheelchair or crutches (regular weight-bearing prohibited). (Effective as to outpatient surgery March 1, 1989.)
(3) Immobilization by cast, without surgery, of one major joint or more. (Effective as to outpatient treatment March 10, 1976.)
A reduction in the total rating will not be subject to § 3.105(e) of this chapter. The total rating will be followed by an open rating reflecting the appropriate schedular evaluation; where the evidence is inadequate to assign the schedular evaluation, a physcial examination will be scheduled prior to the end of the total rating period.
(b) A total rating under this section will require full justification on the rating sheet and may be extended as follows:
(1) Extensions of 1, 2 or 3 months beyond the initial 3 months may be made under paragraph (a) (1), (2) or (3) of this section.
(2) Extensions of 1 or more months up to 6 months beyond the initial 6 months period may be made under paragraph (a) (2) or (3) of this section upon approval of the Veterans Service Center Manager.
In every instance where the schedule does not provide a zero percent evaluation for a diagnostic code, a zero percent evaluation shall be assigned when the requirements for a compensable evaluation are not met.
Disability of the musculoskeletal system is primarily the inability, due to damage or infection in parts of the system, to perform the normal working movements of the body with normal excursion, strength, speed, coordination and endurance. It is essential that the examination on which ratings are based adequately portray the anatomical damage, and the functional loss, with respect to all these elements. The functional loss may be due to absence of part, or all, of the necessary bones, joints and muscles, or associated structures, or to deformity, adhesions, defective innervation, or other pathology, or it may be due to pain, supported by adequate pathology and evidenced by the visible behavior of the claimant undertaking the motion. Weakness is as important as limitation of motion, and a part which becomes painful on use must be regarded as seriously disabled. A little used part of the musculoskeletal system may be expected to show evidence of disuse, either through atrophy, the condition of the skin, absence of normal callosity or the like.
In considering the residuals of injury, it is essential to trace the medical-industrial history of the disabled person from the original injury, considering the nature of the injury and the attendant circumstances, and the requirements for, and the effect of, treatment over past periods, and the course of the recovery to date. The duration of the initial, and any subsequent, period of total incapacity, especially periods reflecting delayed union, inflammation, swelling, drainage, or operative intervention, should be given close attention. This consideration, or the absence of clear cut evidence of injury, may result in classifying the disability as not of traumatic origin, either reflecting congenital or developmental etiology, or the effects of healed disease.
The importance of complete medical examination of injury cases at the time of first medical examination by the Department of Veterans Affairs cannot be overemphasized. When possible, this should include complete neurological and psychiatric examination, and other special examinations indicated by the physical condition, in addition to the required general and orthopedic or surgical examinations. When complete examinations are not conducted covering all systems of the body affected by disease or injury, it is impossible to visualize the nature and extent of the service connected disability. Incomplete examination is a common cause of incorrect diagnosis, especially in the neurological and psychiatric fields, and frequently leaves the Department of Veterans Affairs in doubt as to the presence or absence of disabling conditions at the time of the examination.
Chronic, or recurring, suppurative osteomyelitis, once clinically identified, including chronic inflammation of bone marrow, cortex, or periosteum, should be considered as a continuously disabling process, whether or not an actively discharging sinus or other obvious evidence of infection is manifest from time to time, and unless the focus is entirely removed by amputation will entitle to a permanent rating to be combined with other ratings for residual conditions, however, not exceeding amputation ratings at the site of election.
The osseous abnormalities incident to trauma or disease, such as malunion with deformity throwing abnormal stress upon, and causing malalignment of joint surfaces, should be depicted from study and observation of all available data, beginning with inception of injury or disease, its nature, degree of prostration, treatment and duration of convalescence, and progress of recovery with development of permanent residuals. With shortening of a long bone, some degree of angulation is to be expected; the extent and direction should be brought out by X-ray and observation. The direction of angulation and extent of deformity should be carefully related to strain on the neighboring joints, especially those connected with weight-bearing.
As regards the joints the factors of disability reside in reductions of their normal excursion of movements in different planes. Inquiry will be directed to these considerations:
(a) Less movement than normal (due to ankylosis, limitation or blocking, adhesions, tendon-tie-up, contracted scars, etc.).
(b) More movement than normal (from flail joint, resections, nonunion of fracture, relaxation of ligaments, etc.).
(c) Weakened movement (due to muscle injury, disease or injury of peripheral nerves, divided or lengthened tendons, etc.).
(d) Excess fatigability.
(e) Incoordination, impaired ability to execute skilled movements smoothly.
(f) Pain on movement, swelling, deformity or atrophy of disuse. Instability of station, disturbance of locomotion, interference with sitting, standing and weight-bearing are related considerations. For the purpose of rating disability from arthritis, the shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip, knee, and ankle are considered major joints; multiple involvements of the interphalangeal, metacarpal and carpal joints of the upper extremities, the interphalangeal, metatarsal and tarsal joints of the lower extremities, the cervical vertebrae, the dorsal vertebrae, and the lumbar vertebrae, are considered groups of minor joints, ratable on a parity with major joints. The lumbosacral articulation and both sacroiliac joints are considered to be a group of minor joints, ratable on disturbance of lumbar spine functions.
Accurate measurement of the length of stumps, excursion of joints, dimensions and location of scars with respect to landmarks, should be insisted on. The use of a goniometer in the measurement of limitation of motion is indispensable in examinations conducted within the Department of Veterans Affairs. Muscle atrophy must also be accurately measured and reported.
(a) A muscle injury rating will not be combined with a peripheral nerve paralysis rating of the same body part, unless the injuries affect entirely different functions.
(b) For rating purposes, the skeletal muscles of the body are divided into 23 muscle groups in 5 anatomical regions: 6 muscle groups for the shoulder girdle and arm (diagnostic codes 5301 through 5306); 3 muscle groups for the forearm and hand (diagnostic codes 5307 through 5309); 3 muscle groups for the foot and leg (diagnostic codes 5310 through 5312); 6 muscle groups for the pelvic girdle and thigh (diagnostic codes 5313 through 5318); and 5 muscle groups for the torso and neck (diagnostic codes 5319 through 5323).
(c) There will be no rating assigned for muscle groups which act upon an ankylosed joint, with the following exceptions:
(1) In the case of an ankylosed knee, if muscle group XIII is disabled, it will be rated, but at the next lower level than that which would otherwise be assigned.
(2) In the case of an ankylosed shoulder, if muscle groups I and II are severely disabled, the evaluation of the shoulder joint under diagnostic code 5200 will be elevated to the level for unfavorable ankylosis, if not already assigned, but the muscle groups themselves will not be rated.
(d) The combined evaluation of muscle groups acting upon a single unankylosed joint must be lower than the evaluation for unfavorable ankylosis of that joint, except in the case of muscle groups I and II acting upon the shoulder.
(e) For compensable muscle group injuries which are in the same anatomical region but do not act on the same joint, the evaluation for the most severely injured muscle group will be increased by one level and used as the combined evaluation for the affected muscle groups.
(f) For muscle group injuries in different anatomical regions which do not act upon ankylosed joints, each muscle group injury shall be separately rated and the ratings combined under the provisions of § 4.25.
(a) An open comminuted fracture with muscle or tendon damage will be rated as a severe injury of the muscle group involved unless, for locations such as in the wrist or over the tibia, evidence establishes that the muscle damage is minimal.
(b) A through-and-through injury with muscle damage shall be evaluated as no less than a moderate injury for each group of muscles damaged.
(c) For VA rating purposes, the cardinal signs and symptoms of muscle disability are loss of power, weakness, lowered threshold of fatigue, fatigue-pain, impairment of coordination and uncertainty of movement.
(d) Under diagnostic codes 5301 through 5323, disabilities resulting from muscle injuries shall be classified as slight, moderate, moderately severe or severe as follows:
(1) Slight disability of muscles —(i) Type of injury. Simple wound of muscle without debridement or infection.
(ii) History and complaint. Service department record of superficial wound with brief treatment and return to duty. Healing with good functional results. No cardinal signs or symptoms of muscle disability as defined in paragraph (c) of this section.
(iii) Objective findings. Minimal scar. No evidence of fascial defect, atrophy, or impaired tonus. No impairment of function or metallic fragments retained in muscle tissue.
(2) Moderate disability of muscles —(i) Type of injury. Through and through or deep penetrating wound of short track from a single bullet, small shell or shrapnel fragment, without explosive effect of high velocity missile, residuals of debridement, or prolonged infection.
(ii) History and complaint. Service department record or other evidence of in-service treatment for the wound. Record of consistent complaint of one or more of the cardinal signs and symptoms of muscle disability as defined in paragraph (c) of this section, particularly lowered threshold of fatigue after average use, affecting the particular functions controlled by the injured muscles.
(iii) Objective findings. Entrance and (if present) exit scars, small or linear, indicating short track of missile through muscle tissue. Some loss of deep fascia or muscle substance or impairment of muscle tonus and loss of power or lowered threshold of fatigue when compared to the sound side.
(3) Moderately severe disability of muscles —(i) Type of injury. Through and through or deep penetrating wound by small high velocity missile or large low-velocity missile, with debridement, prolonged infection, or sloughing of soft parts, and intermuscular scarring.
(ii) History and complaint. Service department record or other evidence showing hospitalization for a prolonged period for treatment of wound. Record of consistent complaint of cardinal signs and symptoms of muscle disability as defined in paragraph (c) of this section and, if present, evidence of inability to keep up with work requirements.
(iii) Objective findings. Entrance and (if present) exit scars indicating track of missile through one or more muscle groups. Indications on palpation of loss of deep fascia, muscle substance, or normal firm resistance of muscles compared with sound side. Tests of strength and endurance compared with sound side demonstrate positive evidence of impairment.
(4) Severe disability of muscles —(i) Type of injury. Through and through or deep penetrating wound due to high-velocity missile, or large or multiple low velocity missiles, or with shattering bone fracture or open comminuted fracture with extensive debridement, prolonged infection, or sloughing of soft parts, intermuscular binding and scarring.
(ii) History and complaint. Service department record or other evidence showing hospitalization for a prolonged period for treatment of wound. Record of consistent complaint of cardinal signs and symptoms of muscle disability as defined in paragraph (c) of this section, worse than those shown for moderately severe muscle injuries, and, if present, evidence of inability to keep up with work requirements.
(iii) Objective findings. Ragged, depressed and adherent scars indicating wide damage to muscle groups in missile track. Palpation shows loss of deep fascia or muscle substance, or soft flabby muscles in wound area. Muscles swell and harden abnormally in contraction. Tests of strength, endurance, or coordinated movements compared with the corresponding muscles of the uninjured side indicate severe impairment of function. If present, the following are also signs of severe muscle disability:
(A) X-ray evidence of minute multiple scattered foreign bodies indicating intermuscular trauma and explosive effect of the missile.
(B) Adhesion of scar to one of the long bones, scapula, pelvic bones, sacrum or vertebrae, with epithelial sealing over the bone rather than true skin covering in an area where bone is normally protected by muscle.
(C) Diminished muscle excitability to pulsed electrical current in electrodiagnostic tests.
(D) Visible or measurable atrophy.
(E) Adaptive contraction of an opposing group of muscles.
(F) Atrophy of muscle groups not in the track of the missile, particularly of the trapezius and serratus in wounds of the shoulder girdle.
(G) Induration or atrophy of an entire muscle following simple piercing by a projectile.
It is essential to make an initial distinction between bilateral flatfoot as a congenital or as an acquired condition. The congenital condition, with depression of the arch, but no evidence of abnormal callosities, areas of pressure, strain or demonstrable tenderness, is a congenital abnormality which is not compensable or pensionable. In the acquired condition, it is to be remembered that depression of the longitudinal arch, or the degree of depression, is not the essential feature. The attention should be given to anatomical changes, as compared to normal, in the relationship of the foot and leg, particularly to the inward rotation of the superior portion of the os calcis, medial deviation of the insertion of the Achilles tendon, the medial tilting of the upper border of the astragalus. This is an unfavorable mechanical relationship of the parts. A plumb line dropped from the middle of the patella falls inside of the normal point. The forepart of the foot is abducted, and the foot everted. The plantar surface of the foot is painful and shows demonstrable tenderness, and manipulation of the foot produces spasm of the Achilles tendon, peroneal spasm due to adhesion about the peroneal sheaths, and other evidence of pain and limited motion. The symptoms should be apparent without regard to exercise. In severe cases there is gaping of bones on the inner border of the foot, and rigid valgus position with loss of the power of inversion and adduction. Exercise with undeveloped or unbalanced musculature, producing chronic irritation, can be an aggravating factor. In the absence of trauma or other definite evidence of aggravation, service connection is not in order for pes cavus which is a typically congenital or juvenile disease.
With service incurred lower extremity amputation or shortening, a disabling arthritis, developing in the same extremity, or in both lower extremities, with indications of earlier, or more severe, arthritis in the injured extremity, including also arthritis of the lumbosacral joints and lumbar spine, if associated with the leg amputation or shortening, will be considered as service incurred, provided, however, that arthritis affecting joints not directly subject to strain as a result of the service incurred amputation will not be granted service connection. This will generally require separate evaluation of the arthritis in the joints directly subject to strain. Amputation, or injury to an upper extremity, is not considered as a causative factor with subsequently developing arthritis, except in joints subject to direct strain or actually injured.
With any form of arthritis, painful motion is an important factor of disability, the facial expression, wincing, etc., on pressure or manipulation, should be carefully noted and definitely related to affected joints. Muscle spasm will greatly assist the identification. Sciatic neuritis is not uncommonly caused by arthritis of the spine. The intent of the schedule is to recognize painful motion with joint or periarticular pathology as productive of disability. It is the intention to recognize actually painful, unstable, or malaligned joints, due to healed injury, as entitled to at least the minimum compensable rating for the joint. Crepitation either in the soft tissues such as the tendons or ligaments, or crepitation within the joint structures should be noted carefully as points of contact which are diseased. Flexion elicits such manifestations. The joints involved should be tested for pain on both active and passive motion, in weight-bearing and nonweight-bearing and, if possible, with the range of the opposite undamaged joint.
With any form of arthritis (except traumatic arthritis) it is essential that the examination for rating purposes cover all major joints, with especial reference to Heberden's or Haygarth's nodes.
The circulatory disturbances, especially of the lower extremity following injury in the popliteal space, must not be overlooked, and require rating generally as phlebitis.
Loss of use of a hand or a foot, for the purpose of special monthly compensation, will be held to exist when no effective function remains other than that which would be equally well served by an amputation stump at the site of election below elbow or knee with use of a suitable prosthetic appliance. The determination will be made on the basis of the actual remaining function of the hand or foot, whether the acts of grasping, manipulation, etc., in the case of the hand, or of balance and propulsion, etc., in the case of the foot, could be accomplished equally well by an amputation stump with prosthesis.
(a) Extremely unfavorable complete ankylosis of the knee, or complete ankylosis of 2 major joints of an extremity, or shortening of the lower extremity of 3
1/2 inches (8.9 cms.) or more, will be taken as loss of use of the hand or foot involved.
(b) Complete paralysis of the external popliteal nerve (common peroneal) and consequent, footdrop, accompanied by characteristic organic changes including trophic and circulatory disturbances and other concomitants confirmatory of complete paralysis of this nerve, will be taken as loss of use of the foot.
Loss of use of both buttocks shall be deemed to exist when there is severe damage to muscle Group XVII, bilateral (diagnostic code number 5317) and additional disability rendering it impossible for the disabled person, without assistance, to rise from a seated position and from a stooped position (fingers to toes position) and to maintain postural stability (the pelvis upon head of femur). The assistance may be rendered by the person's own hands or arms, and, in the matter of postural stability, by a special appliance.
The common cause of disability in this region is arthritis, to be identified in the usual manner. The lumbosacral and sacroiliac joints should be considered as one anatomical segment for rating purposes. X-ray changes from arthritis in this location are decrease or obliteration of the joint space, with the appearance of increased bone density of the sacrum and ilium and sharpening of the margins of the joint. Disability is manifest from erector spinae spasm (not accounted for by other pathology), tenderness on deep palpation and percussion over these joints, loss of normal quickness of motion and resiliency, and postural defects often accompanied by limitation of flexion and extension of the hip. Traumatism is a rare cause of disability in this connection, except when superimposed upon congenital defect or upon an existent arthritis; to permit assumption of pure traumatic origin, objective evidence of damage to the joint, and history of trauma sufficiently severe to injure this extremely strong and practically immovable joint is required. There should be careful consideration of lumbosacral sprain, and the various symptoms of pain and paralysis attributable to disease affecting the lumbar vertebrae and the intervertebral disc.
The variability of residuals following these fractures necessitates rating on specific residuals, faulty posture, limitation of motion, muscle injury, painful motion of the lumbar spine, manifest by muscle spasm, mild to moderate sciatic neuritis, peripheral nerve injury, or limitation of hip motion.
The combined rating for disabilities of an extremity shall not exceed the rating for the amputation at the elective level, were amputation to be performed. For example, the combined evaluations for disabilities below the knee shall not exceed the 40 percent evaluation, diagnostic code 5165. This 40 percent rating may be further combined with evaluation for disabilities above the knee but not to exceed the above the knee amputation elective level. Painful neuroma of a stump after amputation shall be assigned the evaluation for the elective site of reamputation.
Handedness for the purpose of a dominant rating will be determined by the evidence of record, or by testing on VA examination. Only one hand shall be considered dominant. The injured hand, or the most severely injured hand, of an ambidextrous individual will be considered the dominant hand for rating purposes.
If the report of examination is inadequate as a basis for the required consideration of service connection and evaluation, the rating agency may request a supplementary report from the examiner giving further details as to the limitations of the disabled person's ordinary activity imposed by the disease, injury, or residual condition, the prognosis for return to, or continuance of, useful work. When the best interests of the service will be advanced by personal conference with the examiner, such conference may be arranged through channels.
Plates I and II provide a standardized description of ankylosis and joint motion measurement. The anatomical position is considered as 0°, with two major exceptions: (a) Shoulder rotation—arm abducted to 90°, elbow flexed to 90° with the position of the forearm reflecting the midpoint 0° between internal and external rotation of the shoulder; and (b) supination and pronation—the arm next to the body, elbow flexed to 90°, and the forearm in midposition 0° between supination and pronation. Motion of the thumb and fingers should be described by appropriate reference to the joints (See Plate III) whose movement is limited, with a statement as to how near, in centimeters, the tip of the thumb can approximate the fingers, or how near the tips of the fingers can approximate the proximal transverse crease of palm.
Acute, Subacute, or Chronic Diseases
Rating
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
Frequent episodes, with constitutional symptoms
60
With definite involucrum or sequestrum, with or without discharging sinus
30
With discharging sinus or other evidence of active infection within the past 5 years
20
Inactive, following repeated episodes, without evidence of active infection in past 5 years
10
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.
5001 Bones and joints, tuberculosis of, active or inactive:
Active
100
Inactive: See §§ 4.88c and 4.89
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
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
Symptom combinations productive of definite impairment of health objectively supported by examination findings or incapacitating exacerbations occurring 3 or more times a year
40
One or two exacerbations a year in a well-established diagnosis
20
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.
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
With X-ray evidence of involvement of 2 or more major joints or 2 or more minor joint groups
10
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.
5004 Arthritis, gonorrheal.
5005 Arthritis, pneumococcic.
5006 Arthritis, typhoid.
5007 Arthritis, syphilitic.
5008 Arthritis, streptococcic.
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.
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.
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.
5012 Bones, neoplasm, malignant, primary or secondary
100
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.
5013 Osteoporosis, residuals of.
5014 Osteomalacia, residuals of.
5015 Bones, neoplasm, benign.
5016 Osteitis deformans.
5017 Gout.
5018 [Removed]
5019 Bursitis.
5020 [Removed]
5021 Myositis.
5022 [Removed]
5023 Heterotopic ossification.
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.
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
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
That require continuous medication for control
10
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.
Prosthetic Implants and Resurfacing
Rating
Major
Minor
Note (1): When an evaluation is assigned for joint resurfacing or the prosthetic replacement of a joint under diagnostic codes 5051-5056, an additional rating under § 4.71a may not also be assigned for that joint, unless otherwise directed.
Note (2): Only evaluate a revision procedure in the same manner as the original procedure under diagnostic codes 5051-5056 if all the original components are replaced.
Note (3): The term “prosthetic replacement” in diagnostic codes 5051-5053 and 5055-5056 means a total replacement of the named joint. However, in DC 5054, “prosthetic replacement” means a total replacement of the head of the femur or of the acetabulum.
Note (4): The 100 percent rating for 1 year following implantation of prosthesis will commence after initial grant of the 1-month total rating assigned under § 4.30 following hospital discharge.
Note (5): The 100 percent rating for 4 months following implantation of prosthesis or resurfacing under DCs 5054 and 5055 will commence after initial grant of the 1-month total rating assigned under § 4.30 following hospital discharge.
Note (6): Special monthly compensation is assignable during the 100 percent rating period the earliest date permanent use of crutches is established.
5051 Shoulder replacement (prosthesis).
Prosthetic replacement of the shoulder joint:
For 1 year following implantation of prosthesis
100
100
With chronic residuals consisting of severe, painful motion or weakness in the affected extremity
60
50
With intermediate degrees of residual weakness, pain or limitation of motion, rate by analogy to diagnostic codes 5200 and 5203.
Minimum rating
30
20
5052 Elbow replacement (prosthesis).
Prosthetic replacement of the elbow joint:
For 1 year following implantation of prosthesis
100
100
With chronic residuals consisting of severe painful motion or weakness in the affected extremity
50
40
With intermediate degrees of residual weakness, pain or limitation of motion rate by analogy to diagnostic codes 5205 through 5208.
Minimum evaluation
30
20
5053 Wrist replacement (prosthesis).
Prosthetic replacement of wrist joint:
For 1 year following implantation of prosthesis
100
100
With chronic residuals consisting of severe, painful motion or weakness in the affected extremity
40
30
With intermediate degrees of residual weakness, pain or limitation of motion, rate by analogy to diagnostic code 5214.
Minimum rating
20
20
5054 Hip, resurfacing or replacement (prosthesis):
For 4 months following implantation of prosthesis or resurfacing
100
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
1 90
Markedly severe residual weakness, pain or limitation of motion following implantation of prosthesis
70
Moderately severe residuals of weakness, pain or limitation of motion
50
Minimum evaluation, total replacement only
30
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.
5055 Knee, resurfacing or replacement (prosthesis):
For 4 months following implantation of prosthesis or resurfacing
100
Prosthetic replacement of knee joint:
With chronic residuals consisting of severe painful motion or weakness in the affected extremity
60
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
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.
5056 Ankle replacement (prosthesis).
Prosthetic replacement of ankle joint:
For 1 year following implantation of prosthesis
100
With chronic residuals consisting of severe painful motion or weakness
40
With intermediate degrees of residual weakness, pain or limitation of motion rate by analogy to 5270 or 5271.
Minimum rating
20
combinations of disabilities
5104 Anatomical loss of one hand and loss of use of one foot
1 100
5105 Anatomical loss of one foot and loss of use of one hand
1 100
5106 Anatomical loss of both hands
1 100
5107 Anatomical loss of both feet
1 100
5108 Anatomical loss of one hand and one foot
1 100
5109 Loss of use of both hands
1 100
5110 Loss of use of both feet
1 100
5111 Loss of use of one hand and one foot
1 100
1 Also entitled to special monthly compensation.
Table II—Ratings for Multiple Losses of Extremities With Dictator's Rating Code and 38 CFR Citation
Impairment of one extremity
Impairment of other extremity
Anatomical loss or loss of use below elbow
Anatomical loss or loss of use below knee
Anatomical loss or loss of use above elbow (preventing use of prosthesis)
Anatomical loss or loss of use above knee (preventing use of prosthesis)
Anatomical loss near shoulder (preventing use of prosthesis)
Anatomical loss near hip (preventing use of prosthesis)
Anatomical loss or loss of use below elbow
M Codes M-1 a, b, or c, 38 CFR 3.350 (c)(1)(i)
L Codes L-1 d, e, f, or g, 38 CFR 3.350(b)
M 1 ⁄ 2 Code M-5, 38 CFR 3.350 (f)(1)(x)
L 1 ⁄ 2 Code L-2 c, 38 CFR 3.350 (f)(1)(vi)
N Code N-3, 38 CFR 3.350 (f)(1)(xi)
M Code M-3 c, 38 CFR 3.350 (f)(1)(viii)
Anatomical loss or loss of use below knee
L Codes L-1 a, b, or c, 38 CFR 3.350(b)
L 1 ⁄ 2 Code L-2 b, 38 CFR 3.350 (f)(1)(iii)
L 1 ⁄ 2 Code L-2 a, 38 CFR 3.350 (f)(1)(i)
M Code M-3 b, 38 CFR 3.350 (f)(1)(iv)
M Code M-3 a, 38 CFR 3.350 (f)(1)(ii)
Anatomical loss or loss of use above elbow (preventing use of prosthesis)
N Code N-1, 38 CFR 3.350 (d)(1)
M Code M-2 a, 38 CFR 3.350 (c)(1)(iii)
N 1 ⁄ 2 Code N-4, 38 CFR 3.350 (f)(1)(ix)
M 1 ⁄ 2 Code M-4 c, 38 CFR 3.350 (f)(1)(xi)
Anatomical loss or loss of use above knee (preventing use of prosthesis)
M Code M-2 a, 38 CFR 3.350 (c)(1)(ii)
M 1 ⁄ 2 Code M-4 b, 38 CFR 3.350 (f)(1)(vii)
M 1 ⁄ 2 Code M-4 a, 38 CFR 3.350 (f)(1)(v)
Anatomical loss near shoulder (preventing use of prosthesis)
O Code O-1, 38 CFR 3.350 (e)(1)(i)
N Code N-2 b, 38 CFR 3.350 (d)(3)
Anatomical loss near hip (preventing use of prosthesis)
N Code N-2 a, 38 CFR 3.350 (d)(2)
Note. —Need for aid attendance or permanently bedridden qualifies for subpar. L. Code L-1 h, i (38 CFR 3.350(b)). Paraplegia with loss of use of both lower extremities and loss of anal and bladder sphincter control qualifies for subpar. O. Code O-2 (38 CFR 3.350(e)(2)). Where there are additional disabilities rated 50% or 100%, or anatomical or loss of use of a third extremity see 38 CFR 3.350(f) (3), (4) or (5).
(Authority: 38 U.S.C. 1115)
Amputations: Upper Extremity
Rating
Major
Minor
Arm, amputation of:
5120 Complete amputation, upper extremity:
Forequarter amputation (involving complete removal of the humerus along with any portion of the scapula, clavicle, and/or ribs)
1 100
1 100
Disarticulation (involving complete removal of the humerus only)
1 90
1 90
5121 Above insertion of deltoid
1 90
1 80
5122 Below insertion of deltoid
1 80
1 70
Forearm, amputation of:
5123 Above insertion of pronator teres
1 80
1 70
5124 Below insertion of pronator teres
1 70
1 60
5125 Hand, loss of use of
1 70
1 60
multiple finger amputations
5126 Five digits of one hand, amputation of
1 70
1 60
Four digits of one hand, amputation of:
5127 Thumb, index, long and ring
1 70
1 60
5128 Thumb, index, long and little
1 70
1 60
5129 Thumb, index, ring and little
1 70
1 60
5130 Thumb, long, ring and little
1 70
1 60
5131 Index, long, ring and little
60
50
Three digits of one hand, amputation of:
5132 Thumb, index and long
60
50
5133 Thumb, index and ring
60
50
5134 Thumb, index and little
60
50
5135 Thumb, long and ring
60
50
5136 Thumb, long and little
60
50
5137 Thumb, ring and little
60
50
5138 Index, long and ring
50
40
5139 Index, long and little
50
40
5140 Index, ring and little
50
40
5141 Long, ring and little
40
30
Two digits of one hand, amputation of:
5142 Thumb and index
50
40
5143 Thumb and long
50
40
5144 Thumb and ring
50
40
5145 Thumb and little
50
40
5146 Index and long
40
30
5147 Index and ring
40
30
5148 Index and little
40
30
5149 Long and ring
30
20
5150 Long and little
30
20
5151 Ring and little
30
20
(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
5152 Thumb, amputation of:
With metacarpal resection
40
30
At metacarpophalangeal joint or through proximal phalanx
30
20
At distal joint or through distal phalanx
20
20
5153 Index finger, amputation of
With metacarpal resection (more than one-half the bone lost)
30
20
Without metacarpal resection, at proximal interphalangeal joint or proximal thereto
20
20
Through middle phalanx or at distal joint
10
10
5154 Long finger, amputation of:
With metacarpal resection (more than one-half the bone lost)
20
20
Without metacarpal resection, at proximal interphalangeal joint or proximal thereto
10
10
5155 Ring finger, amputation of:
With metacarpal resection (more than one-half the bone lost)
20
20
Without metacarpal resection, at proximal interphalangeal joint or proximal thereto
10
10
5156 Little finger, amputation of:
With metacarpal resection (more than one-half the bone lost)
20
20
Without metacarpal resection, at proximal interphalangeal joint or proximal thereto
10
10
Note: The single finger amputation ratings are the only applicable ratings for amputations of whole or part of single fingers.
1 Entitled to special monthly compensation.
Amputations: Lower Extremity
Rating
Thigh, amputation of:
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)
2 100
Disarticulation (involving complete removal of the femur and intrinsic pelvic musculature only)
2 90
Note: Separately evaluate residuals involving other body systems ( e.g., bowel impairment, bladder impairment) under the appropriate diagnostic code.
5161 Upper third, one-third of the distance from perineum to knee joint measured from perineum
2 80
5162 Middle or lower thirds
2 60
Leg, amputation of:
5163 With defective stump, thigh amputation recommended
2 60
5164 Amputation not improvable by prosthesis controlled by natural knee action
2 60
5165 At a lower level, permitting prosthesis
2 40
5166 Forefoot, amputation proximal to metatarsal bones (more than one-half of metatarsal loss)
2 40
5167 Foot, loss of use of
2 40
5170 Toes, all, amputation of, without metatarsal loss or transmetatarsal, amputation of, with up to half of metatarsal loss
30
5171 Toe, great, amputation of:
With removal of metatarsal head
30
Without metatarsal involvement
10
5172 Toes, other than great, amputation of, with removal of metatarsal head:
One or two
20
Without metatarsal involvement
0
5173 Toes, three or four, amputation of, without metatarsal involvement:
Including great toe
20
Not including great toe
10
2 Also entitled to special monthly compensation.
The Shoulder and Arm
Rating
Major
Minor
5200 Scapulohumeral articulation, ankylosis of:
Note: The scapula and humerus move as one piece.
Unfavorable, abduction limited to 25° from side
50
40
Intermediate between favorable and unfavorable
40
30
Favorable, abduction to 60°, can reach mouth and head
30
20
5201 Arm, limitation of motion of:
Flexion and/or abduction limited to 25° from side
40
30
Midway between side and shoulder level (flexion and/or abduction limited to 45°)
30
20
At shoulder level (flexion and/or abduction limited to 90°)
20
20
5202 Humerus, other impairment of:
Loss of head of (flail shoulder)
80
70
Nonunion of (false flail joint)
60
50
Fibrous union of
50
40
Recurrent dislocation of at scapulohumeral joint:
With frequent episodes and guarding of all arm movements
30
20
With infrequent episodes and guarding of movement only at shoulder level (flexion and/or abduction at 90 °)
20
20
Malunion of:
Marked deformity
30
20
Moderate deformity
20
20
5203 Clavicle or scapula, impairment of:
Dislocation of
20
20
Nonunion of:
With loose movement
20
20
Without loose movement
10
10
Malunion of
10
10
Or rate on impairment of function of contiguous joint.
The Elbow and Forearm
Rating
Major
Minor
5205 Elbow, ankylosis of:
Unfavorable, at an angle of less than 50° or with complete loss of supination or pronation
60
50
Intermediate, at an angle of more than 90°, or between 70° and 50°
50
40
Favorable, at an angle between 90° and 70°
40
30
5206 Forearm, limitation of flexion of:
Flexion limited to 45°
50
40
Flexion limited to 55°
40
30
Flexion limited to 70°
30
20
Flexion limited to 90°
20
20
Flexion limited to 100°
10
10
Flexion limited to 110°
0
0
5207 Forearm, limitation of extension of:
Extension limited to 110°
50
40
Extension limited to 100°
40
30
Extension limited to 90°
30
20
Extension limited to 75°
20
20
Extension limited to 60°
10
10
Extension limited to 45°
10
10
5208 Forearm, flexion limited to 100° and extension to 45°
20
20
5209 Elbow, other impairment of Flail joint
60
50
Joint fracture, with marked cubitus varus or cubitus valgus deformity or with ununited fracture of head of radius
20
20
5210 Radius and ulna, nonunion of, with flail false joint
50
40
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
40
30
Without loss of bone substance or deformity
30
20
Nonunion in lower half
20
20
Malunion of, with bad alignment
10
10
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
40
30
Without loss of bone substance or deformity
30
20
Nonunion in upper half
20
20
Malunion of, with bad alignment
10
10
5213 Supination and pronation, impairment of:
Loss of (bone fusion):
The hand fixed in supination or hyperpronation
40
30
The hand fixed in full pronation
30
20
The hand fixed near the middle of the arc or moderate pronation
20
20
Limitation of pronation:
Motion lost beyond middle of arc
30
20
Motion lost beyond last quarter of arc, the hand does not approach full pronation
20
20
Limitation of supination:
To 30° or less
10
10
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.
The Wrist
Rating
Major
Minor
5214 Wrist, ankylosis of:
Unfavorable, in any degree of palmar flexion, or with ulnar or radial deviation
50
40
Any other position, except favorable
40
30
Favorable in 20° to 30° dorsiflexion
30
20
Note: Extremely unfavorable ankylosis will be rated as loss of use of hands under diagnostic code 5125.
5215 Wrist, limitation of motion of:
Dorsiflexion less than 15°
10
10
Palmar flexion limited in line with forearm
10
10
Evaluation of Ankylosis or Limitation of Motion of Single or Multiple Digits of the Hand
Rating
Major
Minor
(1) For the index, long, ring, and little fingers (digits II, III, IV, and V), zero degrees of flexion represents the fingers fully extended, making a straight line with the rest of the hand. The position of function of the hand is with the wrist dorsiflexed 20 to 30 degrees, the metacarpophalangeal and proximal interphalangeal joints flexed to 30 degrees, and the thumb (digit I) abducted and rotated so that the thumb pad faces the finger pads. Only joints in these positions are considered to be in favorable position. For digits II through V, the metacarpophalangeal joint has a range of zero to 90 degrees of flexion, the proximal interphalangeal joint has a range of zero to 100 degrees of flexion, and the distal (terminal) interphalangeal joint has a range of zero to 70 or 80 degrees of flexion
(2) When two or more digits of the same hand are affected by any combination of amputation, ankylosis, or limitation of motion that is not otherwise specified in the rating schedule, the evaluation level assigned will be that which best represents the overall disability ( i.e. , amputation, unfavorable or favorable ankylosis, or limitation of motion), assigning the higher level of evaluation when the level of disability is equally balanced between one level and the next higher level
(3) Evaluation of ankylosis of the index, long, ring, and little fingers:
(i) If both the metacarpophalangeal and proximal interphalangeal joints of a digit are ankylosed, and either is in extension or full flexion, or there is rotation or angulation of a bone, evaluate as amputation without metacarpal resection, at proximal interphalangeal joint or proximal thereto
(ii) If both the metacarpophalangeal and proximal interphalangeal joints of a digit are ankylosed, evaluate as unfavorable ankylosis, even if each joint is individually fixed in a favorable position
(iii) If only the metacarpophalangeal or proximal interphalangeal joint is ankylosed, and there is a gap of more than two inches (5.1 cm.) between the fingertip(s) and the proximal transverse crease of the palm, with the finger(s) flexed to the extent possible, evaluate as unfavorable ankylosis
(iv) If only the metacarpophalangeal or proximal interphalangeal joint is ankylosed, and there is a gap of two inches (5.1 cm.) or less between the fingertip(s) and the proximal transverse crease of the palm, with the finger(s) flexed to the extent possible, evaluate as favorable ankylosis
(4) Evaluation of ankylosis of the thumb:
(i) If both the carpometacarpal and interphalangeal joints are ankylosed, and either is in extension or full flexion, or there is rotation or angulation of a bone, evaluate as amputation at metacarpophalangeal joint or through proximal phalanx
(ii) If both the carpometacarpal and interphalangeal joints are ankylosed, evaluate as unfavorable ankylosis, even if each joint is individually fixed in a favorable position
(iii) If only the carpometacarpal or interphalangeal joint is ankylosed, and there is 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, evaluate as unfavorable ankylosis
(iv) If only the carpometacarpal or interphalangeal joint is ankylosed, and there is a gap of two inches (5.1 cm.) or less between the thumb pad and the fingers, with the thumb attempting to oppose the fingers, evaluate as favorable ankylosis
(5) If there is limitation of motion of two or more digits, evaluate each digit separately and combine the evaluations
I. Multiple Digits: Unfavorable Ankylosis
5216 Five digits of one hand, unfavorable ankylosis of
60
50
Note: Also consider whether evaluation as amputation is warranted.
5217 Four digits of one hand, unfavorable ankylosis of:
Thumb and any three fingers
60
50
Index, long, ring, and little fingers
50
40
Note: Also consider whether evaluation as amputation is warranted.
5218 Three digits of one hand, unfavorable ankylosis of:
Thumb and any two fingers
50
40
Index, long, and ring; index, long, and little; or index, ring, and little fingers
40
30
Long, ring, and little fingers
30
20
Note: Also consider whether evaluation as amputation is warranted.
5219 Two digits of one hand, unfavorable ankylosis of:
Thumb and any finger
40
30
Index and long; index and ring; or index and little fingers
30
20
Long and ring; long and little; or ring and little fingers
20
20
Note: Also consider whether evaluation as amputation is warranted.
II. Multiple Digits: Favorable Ankylosis
5220 Five digits of one hand, favorable ankylosis of
50
40
5221 Four digits of one hand, favorable ankylosis of:
Thumb and any three fingers
50
40
Index, long, ring, and little fingers
40
30
5222 Three digits of one hand, favorable ankylosis of:
Thumb and any two fingers
40
30
Index, long, and ring; index, long, and little; or index, ring, and little fingers
30
20
Long, ring and little fingers
20
20
5223 Two digits of one hand, favorable ankylosis of:
Thumb and any finger
30
20
Index and long; index and ring; or index and little fingers
20
20
Long and ring; long and little; or ring and little fingers
10
10
III. Ankylosis of Individual Digits
5224 Thumb, ankylosis of:
Unfavorable
20
20
Favorable
10
10
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.
5225 Index finger, ankylosis of:
Unfavorable or favorable
10
10
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.
5226 Long finger, ankylosis of:
Unfavorable or favorable
10
10
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.
5227 Ring or little finger, ankylosis of:
Unfavorable or favorable
0
0
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
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
20
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
10
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
0
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
10
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
0
5230 Ring or little finger, limitation of motion:
Any limitation of motion
0
0
The Spine
Rating
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
Unfavorable ankylosis of the entire thoracolumbar spine
50
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
Forward flexion of the cervical spine 15 degrees or less; or, favorable ankylosis of the entire cervical spine
30
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
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
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.
5235 Vertebral fracture or dislocation
5236 Sacroiliac injury and weakness
5237 Lumbosacral or cervical strain
5238 Spinal stenosis
5239 Spondylolisthesis or segmental instability
5240 Ankylosing spondylitis
5241 Spinal fusion
5242 Degenerative arthritis, degenerative disc disease other than intervertebral disc syndrome (also, see either DC 5003 or 5010)
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.
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).
Formula for Rating Intervertebral Disc Syndrome Based on Incapacitating Episodes
With incapacitating episodes having a total duration of at least 6 weeks during the past 12 months
60
With incapacitating episodes having a total duration of at least 4 weeks but less than 6 weeks during the past 12 months
40
With incapacitating episodes having a total duration of at least 2 weeks but less than 4 weeks during the past 12 months
20
With incapacitating episodes having a total duration of at least one week but less than 2 weeks during the past 12 months
10
Note (1): For purposes of evaluations under diagnostic code 5243, an incapacitating episode is a period of acute signs and symptoms due to intervertebral disc syndrome that requires bed rest prescribed by a physician and treatment by a physician.
Note (2): If intervertebral disc syndrome is present in more than one spinal segment, provided that the effects in each spinal segment are clearly distinct, evaluate each segment on the basis of incapacitating episodes or under the General Rating Formula for Diseases and Injuries of the Spine, whichever method results in a higher evaluation for that segment.
The Hip and Thigh
Rating
5250 Hip, ankylosis of:
Unfavorable, extremely unfavorable ankylosis, the foot not reaching ground, crutches necessitated
3 90
Intermediate
70
Favorable, in flexion at an angle between 20° and 40°, and slight adduction or abduction
60
5251 Thigh, limitation of extension of:
Extension limited to 5°
10
5252 Thigh, limitation of flexion of:
Flexion limited to 10°
40
Flexion limited to 20°
30
Flexion limited to 30°
20
Flexion limited to 45°
10
5253 Thigh, impairment of:
Limitation of abduction of, motion lost beyond 10°
20
Limitation of adduction of, cannot cross legs
10
Limitation of rotation of, cannot toe-out more than 15°, affected leg
10
5254 Hip, flail joint
80
5255 Femur, impairment of:
Fracture of shaft or anatomical neck of:
With nonunion, with loose motion (spiral or oblique fracture)
80
With nonunion, without loose motion, weight bearing preserved with aid of brace
60
Fracture of surgical neck of, with false joint
60
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.
3 Entitled to special monthly compensation.
The Knee and Leg
Rating
5256 Knee, ankylosis of:
Extremely unfavorable, in flexion at an angle of 45° or more
60
In flexion between 20° and 45°
50
In flexion between 10° and 20°
40
Favorable angle in full extension, or in slight flexion between 0° and 10°
30
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
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
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
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
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
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
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).
5258 Cartilage, semilunar, dislocated, with frequent episodes of “locking,” pain, and effusion into the joint
20
5259 Cartilage, semilunar, removal of, symptomatic
10
5260 Leg, limitation of flexion of:
Flexion limited to 15°
30
Flexion limited to 30°
20
Flexion limited to 45°
10
Flexion limited to 60°
0
5261 Leg, limitation of extension of:
Extension limited to 45°
50
Extension limited to 30°
40
Extension limited to 20°
30
Extension limited to 15°
20
Extension limited to 10°
10
Extension limited to 5°
0
5262 Tibia and fibula, impairment of:
Nonunion of, with loose motion, requiring brace
40
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
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
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
Treatment less than 12 consecutive months, one or both lower extremities
0
5263 Genu recurvatum (acquired, traumatic, with weakness and insecurity in weight-bearing objectively demonstrated)
10
The Ankle
Rating
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
In plantar flexion, between 30° and 40°, or in dorsiflexion, between 0° and 10°
30
In plantar flexion, less than 30°
20
5271 Ankle, limited motion of:
Marked (less than 5 degrees dorsiflexion or less than 10 degrees plantar flexion)
20
Moderate (less than 15 degrees dorsiflexion or less than 30 degrees plantar flexion)
10
5272 Subastragalar or tarsal joint, ankylosis of:
In poor weight-bearing position
20
In good weight-bearing position
10
5273 Os calcis or astragalus, malunion of:
Marked deformity
20
Moderate deformity
10
5274 Astragalectomy
20
Shortening of the Lower Extremity
Rating
5275 Bones, of the lower extremity, shortening of:
Over 4 inches (10.2 cms.)
3 60
3 1 ⁄ 2 to 4 inches (8.9 cms. to 10.2 cms.)
3 50
3 to 3 1 ⁄ 2 inches (7.6 cms. to 8.9 cms.)
40
2 1 ⁄ 2 to 3 inches (6.4 cms. to 7.6 cms.)
30
2 to 2 1 ⁄ 2 inches (5.1 cms. to 6.4 cms.)
20
1 1 ⁄ 4 to 2 inches (3.2 cms. to 5.1 cms.)
10
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.
3 Also entitled to special monthly compensation.
The Foot
Rating
5269 Plantar fasciitis:
No relief from both non-surgical and surgical treatment, bilateral
30
No relief from both non-surgical and surgical treatment, unilateral
20
Otherwise, unilateral or bilateral
10
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
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
Unilateral
30
Severe; objective evidence of marked deformity (pronation, abduction, etc.), pain on manipulation and use accentuated, indication of swelling on use, characteristic callosities:
Bilateral
30
Unilateral
20
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
Mild; symptoms relieved by built-up shoe or arch support
0
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
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
Unilateral
30
All toes tending to dorsiflexion, limitation of dorsiflexion at ankle to right angle, shortened plantar fascia, and marked tenderness under metatarsal heads:
Bilateral
30
Unilateral
20
Great toe dorsiflexed, some limitation of dorsiflexion at ankle, definite tenderness under metatarsal heads:
Bilateral
10
Unilateral
10
Slight
0
5279 Metatarsalgia, anterior (Morton's disease), unilateral, or bilateral
10
5280 Hallux valgus, unilateral:
Operated with resection of metatarsal head
10
Severe, if equivalent to amputation of great toe
10
5281 Hallux rigidus, unilateral, severe:
Rate as hallux valgus, severe.
Note: Not to be combined with claw foot ratings.
5282 Hammer toe:
All toes, unilateral without claw foot
10
Single toes
0
5283 Tarsal, or metatarsal bones, malunion of, or nonunion of:
Severe
30
Moderately severe
20
Moderate
10
Note: With actual loss of use of the foot, rate 40 percent.
5284 Foot injuries, other:
Severe
30
Moderately severe
20
Moderate
10
Note: With actual loss of use of the foot, rate 40 percent.
The Skull
Rating
5296 Skull, loss of part of, both inner and outer tables:
With brain hernia
80
Without brain hernia:
Area larger than size of a 50-cent piece or 1.140 in 2 (7.355 cm 2 )
50
Area intermediate
30
Area smaller than the size of a 25-cent piece or 0.716 in 2 (4.619 cm 2 )
10
Note: Rate separately for intracranial complications.
The Ribs
Rating
5297 Ribs, removal of:
More than six
50
Five or six
40
Three or four
30
Two
20
One or resection of two or more ribs without regeneration
10
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.
The Coccyx
Rating
5298 Coccyx, removal of:
Partial or complete, with painful residuals
10
Without painful residuals
0
Cite this law
SCHEDULE FOR RATING DISABILITIES (U.S.C.). Retrieved via LawPlayer, https://lawplayer.com/us/act/cfr-title-38-part-4
United States government works (U.S. Code, Code of Federal Regulations) are in the public domain under 17 U.S.C. § 105.
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