VA Disability Rating for Degenerative Arthritis:…

Bottom Line Up Front

Degenerative arthritis (osteoarthritis/DJD) is rated under Diagnostic Codes 5003 (degenerative arthritis) or 5010 (traumatic arthritis). Ratings are based on limitation of motion of the affected joint under that joint's specific diagnostic code. If limitation of motion is noncompensable, arthritis with X-ray evidence and painful motion receives a minimum 10% per major joint or group of joints. Veterans should claim each affected joint separately. Claims typically take 3-6 months.

What Is Degenerative Arthritis?

Degenerative arthritis (osteoarthritis) is the most common form of arthritis, involving the breakdown of cartilage in joints.

Types:

Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD): General wear and tear, DC 5003
Traumatic Arthritis: Resulting from injury, DC 5010 (rated as degenerative)

Commonly affected joints in veterans:

Knees
Hips
Spine (cervical and lumbar)
Shoulders
Ankles
Hands and wrists

Military causes:

Repetitive joint stress
Direct joint injuries
Carrying heavy loads
Running and physical training
Vehicle accidents
Airborne operations
Years of physical demands

VA Rating Criteria

DC 5003/5010 - Degenerative/Traumatic Arthritis

Arthritis is rated based on limitation of motion of the affected joint. When limitation of motion would be noncompensable (0%), arthritis provides:

With X-ray evidence of arthritis:

10% for 2 or more major joints or 2 or more minor joint groups with occasional incapacitating episodes
20% for 2 or more major joints or 2 or more minor joint groups with occasional incapacitating episodes

Per 38 CFR § 4.59 - Painful Motion: With X-ray evidence of arthritis, joints that exhibit painful motion receive at least the minimum compensable rating for that joint, even if limitation of motion doesn't meet criteria.

Rating by Joint

Each joint is rated under its own diagnostic code:

Knees:

DC 5260 (limitation of flexion): 0-30%
DC 5261 (limitation of extension): 0-50%

Hips:

DC 5252 (limitation of flexion): 0-40%
DC 5251 (limitation of extension): 10%

Shoulders:

DC 5201 (limitation of motion): 20-40%

Spine:

DC 5237-5243 (cervical or thoracolumbar): 10-100%

Ankles:

DC 5271 (limited motion): 10-20%

Evidence You Need

Service Connection Evidence

Service treatment records showing joint complaints
Documentation of joint injuries
Physical demands of MOS
Long-term wear and tear from service activities

Current Diagnosis Evidence

X-rays showing arthritis (critical)
Orthopedic evaluation
Range of motion measurements
Documentation of painful motion

Severity Evidence

Range of motion limitations
Impact on daily activities
Treatment records
Failed conservative treatments

C&P Exam: What to Expect

For each affected joint:

Range of motion testing
Pain on motion assessment
Testing after repetitive motion
Assessment of flare-ups
Review of X-rays

Important: Tell the examiner where pain begins during each movement. Pain on motion supports higher ratings.

Key Points

Get X-rays before filing - X-ray evidence is essential for arthritis claims
Claim each joint separately - Don't just claim "arthritis"—specify knees, back, shoulders, etc.
Document painful motion - Even with good range of motion, painful motion with X-ray evidence of arthritis = minimum compensable rating
Consider secondary conditions - Arthritis in one joint can cause problems in others

Secondary Conditions

Arthritis can be secondary to:

Previous joint injuries
Gait abnormalities from other conditions
Overcompensation for other joints

Arthritis can cause:

Gait changes affecting other joints
Depression (chronic pain)
Sleep disturbance

Personal Statement Template

Personal Statement for Degenerative Arthritis

I, [Full Name], submit this statement for degenerative arthritis of [list affected joints].

Military Service: My joints were subjected to significant stress during service through:

[Running, rucking, physical training]
[Specific injuries]
[Heavy lifting, repetitive motions]

Affected Joints:

[Joint 1, e.g., Right Knee]:

Pain: [severity, frequency]
Limitation: [what you can't do]
Stiffness: [when, severity]
X-ray findings: [if known]

[Joint 2]: [Repeat for each affected joint]

Functional Impact:

Walking: [limitation]
Stairs: [difficulty]
Work: [limitations]
Daily activities: [what you can't do]

I certify these statements are true.

[Signature] [Date]

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need X-rays to claim arthritis?

X-ray evidence of arthritis is important for these diagnostic codes. Get X-rays of affected joints before filing.

Can I claim multiple joints?

Yes. Claim each affected joint separately. Each may receive its own rating.

What if my range of motion is almost normal?

With X-ray evidence of arthritis and painful motion, you should receive at least the minimum compensable rating for that joint under 38 CFR § 4.59.

Is traumatic arthritis different from degenerative arthritis?

Traumatic arthritis (from injury) is rated the same as degenerative arthritis under DC 5010.

Resources

VA Forms:

DBQ for specific joint being claimed
VA Form 21-526EZ

VA Rating Information:

This guide is for informational purposes only. Every claim is unique—consult with an accredited claims agent for personalized guidance.

Sources: VA Disability Compensation, 38 CFR Part 4, Veterans Benefits Administration