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 is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5258, from 20% to 20% based on the frequency and functional severity of symptoms. The maximum 20% rating requires: Cartilage, semilunar, dislocated, with frequent episodes of “locking,” pain, and effusion into the joint. Most claims establish the 20% or 20% rating before reaching the top tier.
Rating schedule — DC 5258 at a glance
- Minimum rating
- 20%
- Maximum rating
- 20%
- Rating tiers
- 1
- CFR section
- 38 CFR § 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?
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”
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 (Total Disability Individual Unemployability)?
Veterans rated for Cartilage, semilunar, dislocated, with frequent episodes of “locking,” pain, and effusion into the joint may qualify for TDIU if the condition — alone or in combination with other service-connected disabilities — prevents substantially gainful employment. A single disability rated at 60% or higher (or multiple disabilities combining to 70%, with one at 40%) can support a TDIU claim under 38 CFR § 4.16.
What evidence do I need to establish service connection for Cartilage, semilunar, dislocated, with frequent episodes of “locking,” pain, and effusion into the joint?
Service connection for Cartilage, semilunar, dislocated, with frequent episodes of “locking,” pain, and effusion into the joint requires three elements: (1) a current diagnosis of the condition, (2) an in-service event, injury, or disease, and (3) a medical nexus linking the current diagnosis to that in-service occurrence. A nexus letter from a treating or independent medical examiner is the most reliable nexus evidence.
What is the C&P exam like for Cartilage, semilunar, dislocated, with frequent episodes of “locking,” pain, and effusion into the joint?
A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam for Cartilage, semilunar, dislocated, with frequent episodes of “locking,” pain, and effusion into the joint uses a Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) specific to the body system involved. The examiner documents the frequency, severity, and functional impact of your symptoms. Bring all relevant treatment records and be prepared to describe your worst-day symptoms — the examiner rates your condition based on the full clinical picture, not a single visit.
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