Cartilage, semilunar, dislocated, with frequent episodes of “locking,” pain, and effusion into the joint — VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR DC 5258)

The VA rates Cartilage, semilunar, dislocated, with frequent episodes of “locking,” pain, and effusion into the joint under Diagnostic Code 5258 at the following tiers: 20%. The minimum 20% rating requires: Cartilage, semilunar, dislocated, with frequent episodes of “locking,” pain, and effusion into the joint. The maximum 20% rating requires: Cartilage, semilunar, dislocated, with frequent episodes of “locking,” pain, and effusion into the joint.

Diagnostic Code 5258 is the VA rating identifier for Cartilage, semilunar, dislocated, with frequent episodes of “locking,” pain, and effusion into the joint within 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a. 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 Cartilage, semilunar, dislocated, with frequent episodes of “locking,” pain, and effusion into the joint under DC 5258 is 20%. This tier requires: Cartilage, semilunar, dislocated, with frequent episodes of “locking,” pain, and effusion into the joint. Veterans who cannot secure substantially gainful employment due to Cartilage, semilunar, dislocated, with frequent episodes of “locking,” pain, and effusion into the joint alone or in combination with other service-connected conditions may also qualify for TDIU at the 100% compensation rate under 38 CFR § 4.16.

Cartilage, semilunar, dislocated, with frequent episodes of “locking,” pain, and effusion into the joint is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5258. 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 Cartilage, semilunar, dislocated, with frequent episodes of “locking,” pain, and effusion into the joint 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 Cartilage, semilunar, dislocated, with frequent episodes of “locking,” pain, and effusion into the joint 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.