Hallux valgus, unilateral
The VA rates Hallux valgus, unilateral under Diagnostic Code 5280 at a single 10% level. With a cap of 10%, most veterans pursue secondary conditions to increase their combined rating.
Rating schedule — DC 5280 at a glance
- Minimum rating
- 10%
- Maximum rating
- 10%
- 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%
10%
Part 4 rating schedule
None mapped
What are the VA rating criteria for Hallux valgus, unilateral?
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 10% | Operated with resection of metatarsal head |
“Operated with resection of metatarsal head”
What other musculoskeletal conditions does the VA rate?
These diagnostic codes sit next to Hallux valgus, unilateral in 38 CFR Part 4. The rating schedule is ordered anatomically, so neighbouring codes usually cover the same joint, organ, or system, and a claim often involves more than one of them.
- 5275Bones, of the lower extremity, shortening ofRated up to 40%
- 5276Flatfoot, acquiredRated up to 50%
- 5277Weak foot, bilateralRated up to 10%
- 5278Claw foot (pes cavus), acquiredRated up to 50%
- 5279Metatarsalgia, anterior (Morton's disease), unilateral, or bilateralRated up to 10%
- 5281Hallux rigidus, unilateral, severeRated up to 0%
- 5282Hammer toeRated up to 10%
- 5283Tarsal, or metatarsal bones, malunion of, or nonunion ofRated up to 30%
- 5284Foot injuries, otherRated up to 30%
- 5296Skull, loss of part of, both inner and outer tablesRated up to 80%
Common Questions About Hallux valgus, unilateral VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Hallux valgus, unilateral?
The VA rates Hallux valgus, unilateral under Diagnostic Code 5280 at 10%. The minimum 10% rating requires: Operated with resection of metatarsal head. The maximum 10% rating requires: Operated with resection of metatarsal head.
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Hallux valgus, unilateral?
The VA rates Hallux valgus, unilateral under Diagnostic Code (DC) 5280, 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 valgus, unilateral qualify for TDIU?
Hallux valgus, unilateral maxes at 10%, 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 valgus, unilateral?
The key evidence for Hallux valgus, unilateral 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 valgus, unilateral?
The C&P examiner uses a Musculoskeletal System DBQ and evaluates your condition against the DC 5280 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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