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.

Veterans rated for Arthritis due to Trauma (Traumatic Arthritis) 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.

Service connection for Arthritis due to Trauma (Traumatic Arthritis) 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.

A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam for Arthritis due to Trauma (Traumatic Arthritis) 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.