Hammer toe
The VA rates Hammer toe under Diagnostic Code 5282 across 2 severity levels, from 0% to 10%. With a cap of 10%, most veterans pursue secondary conditions to increase their combined rating.
Rating schedule — DC 5282 at a glance
- Minimum rating
- 0%
- Maximum rating
- 10%
- Rating tiers
- 2
- CFR section
- § 4.71a
- Body system
- Musculoskeletal System
- Secondary conditions
- 0
Lowest schedular rating available
TDIU may raise effective compensation to 100%
0%, 10%
Part 4 rating schedule
None mapped
What are the VA rating criteria for Hammer toe?
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 0% | Single toes |
| 10% | All toes, unilateral without claw foot |
“All toes, unilateral without claw foot”
Common Questions About Hammer toe VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Hammer toe?
The VA rates Hammer toe under Diagnostic Code 5282 at 0%, 10%. The minimum 0% rating requires: Single toes. The maximum 10% rating requires: All toes, unilateral without claw foot.
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Hammer toe?
The VA rates Hammer toe under Diagnostic Code (DC) 5282, 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 0% and a 10% rating for Hammer toe?
A 0% rating requires: Single toes. A 10% rating requires: All toes, unilateral without claw foot. The difference typically reflects the frequency, severity, or functional impact of the condition as documented in medical records and C&P examination findings.
Can Hammer toe qualify for TDIU?
Hammer toe 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 Hammer toe?
The key evidence for Hammer toe 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 Hammer toe?
The C&P examiner uses a Musculoskeletal System DBQ and evaluates your condition against the DC 5282 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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