Degenerative Arthritis
Degenerative Arthritis is a VA-ratable condition under diagnostic code 5003 in the Musculoskeletal Diseases category. Maximum rating: 20%.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 20% | X-ray evidence involving 2 or more major joints with occasional incapacitating exacerbations |
| 10% | X-ray evidence involving 2 or more major joints or 2 or more minor joint groups |
Important Notes
Rate based on limitation of motion. Minimum 10% if limitation of motion is noncompensable.
Filing Tips
Pro Tip: The VA won't connect the dots for you. That's your job. Build the paper trail before you file.
Gather medical evidence showing a current diagnosis of this condition.
Document in-service events, injuries, or exposures that caused or aggravated this condition.
Consider a nexus letter from a medical professional linking your condition to service.
Review the rating criteria for DC 5003 to understand what symptoms warrant higher ratings.
Quick Links
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