Other specified forms of arthropathy (excluding gout)
The VA rates Other specified forms of arthropathy (excluding gout) under Diagnostic Code 5009 at a single 0% level. The applicable level depends on the full criteria and the evidence for the condition. These percentages are alternatives, not amounts to add together.
Rating schedule · DC 5009 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%
Where this code is published
None mapped
What are the VA rating criteria for Other specified forms of arthropathy (excluding gout)?
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 0% | With the types of arthritis, diagnostic codes 5004 through 5009, rate the acute phase under diagnostic code 5002; rate any chronic residuals under diagnostic code 5003. Note (2): Note: Cross-reference — see referenced criteria for rating tiers |
“With the types of arthritis, diagnostic codes 5004 through 5009, rate the acute phase under diagnostic code 5002; rate any chronic residuals under diagnostic code 5003. Note (2):”
What other musculoskeletal conditions does the VA rate?
These diagnostic codes sit next to Other specified forms of arthropathy (excluding gout) 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.
- 5000Osteomyelitis, acute, subacute, or chronicRated up to 100%
- 5001Bones and joints, tuberculosis of, active or inactiveRated up to 100%
- 5002Multi-joint arthritis (except post-traumatic and gout), 2 or more joints, as an active processRated up to 100%
- 5003Degenerative arthritis, other than post-traumaticRated up to 20%
- 5010Arthritis due to Trauma (Traumatic Arthritis)Rated up to 20%
- 5012Bones, neoplasm, malignant, primary or secondaryRated up to 100%
- 5025Fibromyalgia (fibrositis, primary fibromyalgia syndrome)Rated up to 40%
- 5051Shoulder replacement (prosthesis).
- 5052Elbow replacement (prosthesis).
- 5053Wrist replacement (prosthesis).
What to do with a Other specified forms of arthropathy (excluding gout) rating
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- VA Service Connection Evidence 101: The Three-Legged StoolFor an original claim tied to active-duty service, VA needs a current disability, an in-service event, and a link between them. Here is what each part takes.
- VA Math Explained: How Combined Disability Ratings Really WorkVA ratings do not add. Learn how 38 CFR 4.25 combines disabilities using whole-person efficiency, why 50 and 30 round to 70, and how the bilateral factor works.
Common Questions About Other specified forms of arthropathy (excluding gout) VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Other specified forms of arthropathy (excluding gout)?
The VA rates Other specified forms of arthropathy (excluding gout) under Diagnostic Code 5009 at 0%. The minimum 0% rating requires: With the types of arthritis, diagnostic codes 5004 through 5009, rate the acute phase under diagnostic code 5002; rate any chronic residuals under diagnostic code 5003. Note (2):. The maximum 0% rating requires: With the types of arthritis, diagnostic codes 5004 through 5009, rate the acute phase under diagnostic code 5002; rate any chronic residuals under diagnostic code 5003. Note (2):.
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Other specified forms of arthropathy (excluding gout)?
The VA rates Other specified forms of arthropathy (excluding gout) under Diagnostic Code (DC) 5009, published in 38 CFR § 4.71a. The diagnostic code establishes the specific rating tiers and severity criteria the VA examiner applies.
Can Other specified forms of arthropathy (excluding gout) qualify for TDIU?
Other specified forms of arthropathy (excluding gout) 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 Other specified forms of arthropathy (excluding gout)?
The key evidence for Other specified forms of arthropathy (excluding gout) 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 Other specified forms of arthropathy (excluding gout)?
The C&P examiner uses a Musculoskeletal System DBQ and evaluates your condition against the DC 5009 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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