Elbow, other impairment of Flail joint
Elbow, other impairment of Flail joint is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5209, from 20% to 60% based on the frequency and functional severity of symptoms. The maximum 60% rating requires: 50. Most claims establish the 20% or 50% rating before reaching the top tier.
Rating schedule — DC 5209 at a glance
- Minimum rating
- 20%
- Maximum rating
- 60%
- Rating tiers
- 3
- 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%, 50%, 60%
Part 4 rating schedule
None mapped
What are the VA rating criteria for Elbow, other impairment of Flail joint?
Joint fracture, with marked cubitus varus or cubitus valgus deformity or with ununited fracture of head of radius; 20
60
50
“60”
Common Questions About Elbow, other impairment of Flail joint VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Elbow, other impairment of Flail joint?
The VA rates Elbow, other impairment of Flail joint under Diagnostic Code 5209 at 20%, 50%, 60%. The minimum 20% rating requires: Joint fracture, with marked cubitus varus or cubitus valgus deformity or with ununited fracture of head of radius; 20. The maximum 60% rating requires: 50.
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Elbow, other impairment of Flail joint?
The VA rates Elbow, other impairment of Flail joint under Diagnostic Code (DC) 5209, 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 20% and a 60% rating for Elbow, other impairment of Flail joint?
A 20% rating requires: Joint fracture, with marked cubitus varus or cubitus valgus deformity or with ununited fracture of head of radius; 20. A 60% rating requires: 50. The difference typically reflects the frequency, severity, or functional impact of the condition as documented in medical records and C&P examination findings.
Can Elbow, other impairment of Flail joint qualify for TDIU (Total Disability Individual Unemployability)?
Veterans rated for Elbow, other impairment of Flail 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 Elbow, other impairment of Flail joint?
Service connection for Elbow, other impairment of Flail 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 Elbow, other impairment of Flail joint?
A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam for Elbow, other impairment of Flail 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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