Tarsal, or metatarsal bones, malunion of, or nonunion of — VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR DC 5283)

The VA rates Tarsal, or metatarsal bones, malunion of, or nonunion of under Diagnostic Code 5283 at the following tiers: 10%, 20%, 30%. The minimum 10% rating requires: Moderate. The maximum 30% rating requires: Severe.

Diagnostic Code 5283 is the VA rating identifier for Tarsal, or metatarsal bones, malunion of, or nonunion of 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 Tarsal, or metatarsal bones, malunion of, or nonunion of under DC 5283 is 30%. This tier requires: Severe. Veterans who cannot secure substantially gainful employment due to Tarsal, or metatarsal bones, malunion of, or nonunion of alone or in combination with other service-connected conditions may also qualify for TDIU at the 100% compensation rate under 38 CFR § 4.16.

Tarsal, or metatarsal bones, malunion of, or nonunion of is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5283. 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 Tarsal, or metatarsal bones, malunion of, or nonunion of 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 Tarsal, or metatarsal bones, malunion of, or nonunion of 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.