Hallux rigidus, unilateral, severe — VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR DC 5281)

The VA rates Hallux rigidus, unilateral, severe under Diagnostic Code 5281 at the following tiers: 0%. The minimum 0% rating requires: Rate as hallux valgus, severe.. The maximum 0% rating requires: Rate as hallux valgus, severe..

Diagnostic Code 5281 is the VA rating identifier for Hallux rigidus, unilateral, severe 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 maximum rating for Hallux rigidus, unilateral, severe is defined in 38 CFR Part 4 under DC 5281. See the rating tiers above for exact criteria.

Hallux rigidus, unilateral, severe is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5281. 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 Hallux rigidus, unilateral, severe 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 Hallux rigidus, unilateral, severe 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.