DC 5149Musculoskeletal System38 CFR § 4.71a

Long and ring

The VA rates Long and ring under Diagnostic Code 5149 across 2 severity levels, from 20% to 30%. The 30% maximum means additional ratings through secondary conditions or combined ratings are critical for higher compensation.

Rating schedule — DC 5149 at a glance

Minimum rating
20%

Lowest schedular rating available

Maximum rating
30%

TDIU may raise effective compensation to 100%

Rating tiers
2

20%, 30%

CFR section
§ 4.71a

Part 4 rating schedule

Body system
Musculoskeletal System
Secondary conditions
0

None mapped

What are the VA rating criteria for Long and ring?

RatingCriteria
20%

30

30%

20

20

Common Questions About Long and ring VA Ratings

What is the VA rating range for Long and ring?

The VA rates Long and ring under Diagnostic Code 5149 at 20%, 30%. The minimum 20% rating requires: 30. The maximum 30% rating requires: 20.

Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Long and ring?

The VA rates Long and ring under Diagnostic Code (DC) 5149, 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 30% rating for Long and ring?

A 20% rating requires: 30. A 30% rating requires: 20. The difference typically reflects the frequency, severity, or functional impact of the condition as documented in medical records and C&P examination findings.

Can Long and ring qualify for TDIU?

Long and ring maxes at 30%, 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 Long and ring?

The key evidence for Long and ring 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 Long and ring?

The C&P examiner uses a Musculoskeletal System DBQ and evaluates your condition against the DC 5149 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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