Degenerative arthritis, other than post-traumatic
Degenerative arthritis, other than post-traumatic is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5003, from 10% to 20% based on the frequency and functional severity of symptoms. The maximum 20% rating requires: With X-ray evidence of involvement of 2 or more major joints or 2 or more minor joint groups, with occasional incapacitating exacerbations. Most claims establish the 10% or 20% rating before reaching the top tier.
What are the VA rating criteria for Degenerative arthritis, other than post-traumatic?
With X-ray evidence of involvement of 2 or more major joints or 2 or more minor joint groups
Note: DC 5003 is a catch-all for degenerative arthritis when the limitation of motion does not meet the criteria of a more specific DC. If limitation of motion is present, it should be rated under the applicable motion limitation code (e.g., DC 5260, 5261) and DC 5003 should not be assigned a separate rating for the same joint.
With X-ray evidence of involvement of 2 or more major joints or 2 or more minor joint groups, with occasional incapacitating exacerbations
Note: The 20% rating under DC 5003 requires X-ray evidence of multiple joint involvement with documented incapacitating exacerbations. An incapacitating episode is one requiring bed rest and treatment by a physician.
“With X-ray evidence of involvement of 2 or more major joints or 2 or more minor joint groups, with occasional incapacitating exacerbations”
Which conditions are commonly secondary to Degenerative arthritis, other than post-traumatic?
View 1 secondary condition linked to Degenerative arthritis, other than post-traumatic
Medical rationale, evidence strength, and filing tips — rated under 38 CFR § 3.310
Common Questions About Degenerative arthritis, other than post-traumatic VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Degenerative arthritis, other than post-traumatic?
The VA rates Degenerative arthritis, other than post-traumatic under Diagnostic Code 5003 at 10%, 20%. The minimum 10% rating requires: With X-ray evidence of involvement of 2 or more major joints or 2 or more minor joint groups. The maximum 20% rating requires: With X-ray evidence of involvement of 2 or more major joints or 2 or more minor joint groups, with occasional incapacitating exacerbations.
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Degenerative arthritis, other than post-traumatic?
The VA rates Degenerative arthritis, other than post-traumatic under Diagnostic Code (DC) 5003, governed by 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a. The diagnostic code establishes the specific rating tiers and severity criteria the VA examiner applies.
What is the difference between a 10% and a 20% rating for Degenerative arthritis, other than post-traumatic?
A 10% rating requires: With X-ray evidence of involvement of 2 or more major joints or 2 or more minor joint groups. A 20% rating requires: With X-ray evidence of involvement of 2 or more major joints or 2 or more minor joint groups, 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.
Can Degenerative arthritis, other than post-traumatic qualify for TDIU (Total Disability Individual Unemployability)?
Veterans rated for Degenerative arthritis, other than post-traumatic 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 Degenerative arthritis, other than post-traumatic?
Service connection for Degenerative arthritis, other than post-traumatic 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.
Which conditions are commonly secondary to Degenerative arthritis, other than post-traumatic?
Degenerative arthritis, other than post-traumatic is associated with 1 documented secondary condition. Secondary conditions caused or aggravated by a service-connected disability are ratable under 38 CFR § 3.310. See the secondary conditions page for the full list with medical rationale and evidence strength ratings.
What is the C&P exam like for Degenerative arthritis, other than post-traumatic?
A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam for Degenerative arthritis, other than post-traumatic 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.
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