Arthritis due to Trauma (Traumatic Arthritis) — VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR DC 5010)

The VA rates Arthritis due to Trauma (Traumatic Arthritis) under Diagnostic Code 5010 at the following tiers: 10%, 20%. The minimum 10% rating requires: Traumatic arthritis with X-ray evidence of arthritis: with occasional painful episodes and no more than slight limitation of motion; or established by X-ray findings, with at least one-half inch or more shortening of the affected extremity.. The maximum 20% rating requires: Traumatic arthritis of two or more major joints, or two or more minor joint groups, with X-ray evidence and with occasional incapacitating exacerbations..

Diagnostic Code 5010 is the VA rating identifier for Arthritis due to Trauma (Traumatic Arthritis) within 38 CFR 38 CFR Part 4, DC 5010. It defines the specific symptom criteria and percentage thresholds a VA adjudicator uses to assign a disability rating. The diagnostic code is listed on a veteran's rating decision letter.

The highest schedular rating for Arthritis due to Trauma (Traumatic Arthritis) under DC 5010 is 20%. This tier requires: Traumatic arthritis of two or more major joints, or two or more minor joint groups, with X-ray evidence and with occasional incapacitating exacerbations.. Veterans who cannot secure substantially gainful employment due to Arthritis due to Trauma (Traumatic Arthritis) alone or in combination with other service-connected conditions may also qualify for TDIU at the 100% compensation rate under 38 CFR § 4.16.

Arthritis due to Trauma (Traumatic Arthritis) is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR Part 4, DC 5010, Diagnostic Code 5010. This section is part of the Schedule for Rating Disabilities (38 CFR Part 4) and can be read in full at the eCFR website.

Secondary conditions caused or aggravated by Arthritis due to Trauma (Traumatic Arthritis) may be ratable under 38 CFR § 3.310. Veterans should work with a VSO or accredited claims agent to document the medical relationship.

Service connection for Arthritis due to Trauma (Traumatic Arthritis) requires three elements: (1) a current diagnosis of the condition, (2) an in-service event, injury, or disease that may have caused or aggravated it, and (3) a medical nexus connecting the current diagnosis to that in-service event. A nexus letter from a treating physician or independent medical examiner is the most reliable nexus evidence. C&P exam findings can also establish nexus if adequately documented.