Cartilage, semilunar, dislocated, with frequent episodes of “locking,” pain, and effusion into the joint
The VA rates Cartilage, semilunar, dislocated, with frequent episodes of “locking,” pain, and effusion into the joint under Diagnostic Code 5258 at a single 20% level. With a cap of 20%, most veterans pursue secondary conditions to increase their combined rating.
Rating schedule — DC 5258 at a glance
- Minimum rating
- 20%
- Maximum rating
- 20%
- Rating tiers
- 1
- CFR section
- § 4.71a
- Body system
- Musculoskeletal System
- Secondary conditions
- 0
Lowest schedular rating available
TDIU may raise effective compensation to 100%
20%
Part 4 rating schedule
None mapped
What are the VA rating criteria for Cartilage, semilunar, dislocated, with frequent episodes of “locking,” pain, and effusion into the joint?
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 20% | Cartilage, semilunar, dislocated, with frequent episodes of “locking,” pain, and effusion into the joint |
“Cartilage, semilunar, dislocated, with frequent episodes of “locking,” pain, and effusion into the joint”
What other musculoskeletal conditions does the VA rate?
These diagnostic codes sit next to Cartilage, semilunar, dislocated, with frequent episodes of “locking,” pain, and effusion into the joint in 38 CFR Part 4. The rating schedule is ordered anatomically, so neighbouring codes usually cover the same joint, organ, or system, and a claim often involves more than one of them.
- 5253Impairment of the Thigh (Hip Rotation/Adduction)Rated up to 20%
- 5254Hip, flail jointRated up to 80%
- 5255Femur, impairment ofRated up to 80%
- 5256Knee, ankylosis ofRated up to 60%
- 5257Knee, other impairment ofRated up to 30%
- 5259Cartilage, semilunar, removal of, symptomaticRated up to 10%
- 5260Leg, limitation of flexion ofRated up to 30%
- 5261Leg, limitation of extension ofRated up to 50%
- 5262Tibia and fibula, impairment ofRated up to 40%
- 5263Genu recurvatum (acquired, traumatic, with weakness and insecurity in weight-bearing objectively demonstrated)Rated up to 10%
Common Questions About Cartilage, semilunar, dislocated, with frequent episodes of “locking,” pain, and effusion into the joint VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Cartilage, semilunar, dislocated, with frequent episodes of “locking,” pain, and effusion into the joint?
The VA rates Cartilage, semilunar, dislocated, with frequent episodes of “locking,” pain, and effusion into the joint under Diagnostic Code 5258 at 20%. The minimum 20% rating requires: Cartilage, semilunar, dislocated, with frequent episodes of “locking,” pain, and effusion into the joint. The maximum 20% rating requires: Cartilage, semilunar, dislocated, with frequent episodes of “locking,” pain, and effusion into the joint.
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Cartilage, semilunar, dislocated, with frequent episodes of “locking,” pain, and effusion into the joint?
The VA rates Cartilage, semilunar, dislocated, with frequent episodes of “locking,” pain, and effusion into the joint under Diagnostic Code (DC) 5258, governed by 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a. The diagnostic code establishes the specific rating tiers and severity criteria the VA examiner applies.
Can Cartilage, semilunar, dislocated, with frequent episodes of “locking,” pain, and effusion into the joint qualify for TDIU?
Cartilage, semilunar, dislocated, with frequent episodes of “locking,” pain, and effusion into the joint maxes at 20%, well below the single-disability TDIU threshold. However, combined with other service-connected disabilities, TDIU may be achievable under 38 CFR § 4.16. Focus on establishing secondary conditions to increase the combined rating.
What evidence supports a higher rating for Cartilage, semilunar, dislocated, with frequent episodes of “locking,” pain, and effusion into the joint?
The key evidence for Cartilage, semilunar, dislocated, with frequent episodes of “locking,” pain, and effusion into the joint is documentation of how the condition affects daily functioning. For musculoskeletal conditions, range of motion measurements (active, passive, weight-bearing, and non-weight-bearing per Correia v. McDonald) and flare-up documentation are critical. A nexus letter from a qualified medical professional linking the current severity to service is essential for contested claims.
What happens at the C&P exam for Cartilage, semilunar, dislocated, with frequent episodes of “locking,” pain, and effusion into the joint?
The C&P examiner uses a Musculoskeletal System DBQ and evaluates your condition against the DC 5258 rating criteria. Expect range of motion testing in multiple positions. Under Correia v. McDonald, the examiner must test active, passive, weight-bearing, and non-weight-bearing range of motion. Report your worst flare-up symptoms — if you cannot attend during a flare, request the exam be rescheduled.
Get a Personalized Rating Analysis
VeteranHQ evaluates your symptoms against the exact 38 CFR criteria, identifies secondary conditions, and shows what evidence you need to support a higher rating.
Discover Your Benefits