Arthritis due to Trauma (Traumatic Arthritis)

The VA rates Arthritis due to Trauma (Traumatic Arthritis) under Diagnostic Code 5010 at 10%, 20%. The minimum 10% rating requires: Traumatic arthritis with X-ray evidence of arthritis: with occasional painful episodes and no more than slight limitation of motion; or established by X-ray findings, with at least one-half inch or more shortening of the affected extremity.. The maximum 20% rating requires: Traumatic arthritis of two or more major joints, or two or more minor joint groups, with X-ray evidence and with occasional incapacitating exacerbations..

The VA rates Arthritis due to Trauma (Traumatic Arthritis) under Diagnostic Code (DC) 5010, governed by 38 CFR 38 CFR Part 4, DC 5010. The diagnostic code establishes the specific rating tiers and severity criteria the VA examiner applies.

A 10% rating requires: Traumatic arthritis with X-ray evidence of arthritis: with occasional painful episodes and no more than slight limitation of motion; or established by X-ray findings, with at least one-half inch or more shortening of the affected extremity.. A 20% rating requires: Traumatic arthritis of two or more major joints, or two or more minor joint groups, with X-ray evidence and with occasional incapacitating exacerbations.. The difference typically reflects the frequency, severity, or functional impact of the condition as documented in medical records and C&P examination findings.

Arthritis due to Trauma (Traumatic Arthritis) 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.

The key evidence for Arthritis due to Trauma (Traumatic Arthritis) 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.

The C&P examiner uses a Musculoskeletal System DBQ and evaluates your condition against the DC 5010 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.