Hallux rigidus, unilateral, severe
The VA rates Hallux rigidus, unilateral, severe under Diagnostic Code 5281 at a single 0% level. With a cap of 0%, most veterans pursue secondary conditions to increase their combined rating.
Rating schedule — DC 5281 at a glance
- Minimum rating
- 0%
- Maximum rating
- 0%
- Rating tiers
- 1
- CFR section
- § 4.71a
- Body system
- Musculoskeletal System
- Secondary conditions
- 0
Lowest schedular rating available
TDIU may raise effective compensation to 100%
0%
Part 4 rating schedule
None mapped
What are the VA rating criteria for Hallux rigidus, unilateral, severe?
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 0% | Rate as hallux valgus, severe. Note: Cross-reference — see referenced criteria for rating tiers |
“Rate as hallux valgus, severe.”
Common Questions About Hallux rigidus, unilateral, severe VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Hallux rigidus, unilateral, severe?
The VA rates Hallux rigidus, unilateral, severe under Diagnostic Code 5281 at 0%. The minimum 0% rating requires: Rate as hallux valgus, severe.. The maximum 0% rating requires: Rate as hallux valgus, severe..
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Hallux rigidus, unilateral, severe?
The VA rates Hallux rigidus, unilateral, severe under Diagnostic Code (DC) 5281, governed by 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a. The diagnostic code establishes the specific rating tiers and severity criteria the VA examiner applies.
Can Hallux rigidus, unilateral, severe qualify for TDIU?
Hallux rigidus, unilateral, severe maxes at 0%, 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.
What evidence supports a higher rating for Hallux rigidus, unilateral, severe?
The key evidence for Hallux rigidus, unilateral, severe 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.
What happens at the C&P exam for Hallux rigidus, unilateral, severe?
The C&P examiner uses a Musculoskeletal System DBQ and evaluates your condition against the DC 5281 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.
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