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Degenerative arthritis, other than post-traumatic
Diagnostic code 5003 · Musculoskeletal system · 38 CFR 4.71a
Rating criteria: the exact regulation text
Quoted from 38 CFR 4.71a. The "Rating" column is the percentage VA assigns for that level.
| Criteria | Rating |
|---|---|
| 5003 Degenerative arthritis, other than post-traumatic: | |
| Degenerative arthritis established by X-ray findings will be rated on the basis of limitation of motion under the appropriate diagnostic codes for the specific joint or joints involved (DC 5200 etc.). When however, the limitation of motion of the specific joint or joints involved is noncompensable under the appropriate diagnostic codes, a rating of 10 pct is for application for each such major joint or group of minor joints affected by limitation of motion, to be combined, not added under diagnostic code 5003. Limitation of motion must be objectively confirmed by findings such as swelling, muscle spasm, or satisfactory evidence of painful motion. In the absence of limitation of motion, rate as below: | |
| With X-ray evidence of involvement of 2 or more major joints or 2 or more minor joint groups, with occasional incapacitating exacerbations | 20 |
| With X-ray evidence of involvement of 2 or more major joints or 2 or more minor joint groups | 10 |
| Note (1): The 20 pct and 10 pct ratings based on X-ray findings, above, will not be combined with ratings based on limitation of motion. | |
| Note (2): The 20 pct and 10 pct ratings based on X-ray findings, above, will not be utilized in rating conditions listed under diagnostic codes 5013 to 5024, inclusive. |
Where else the regulation mentions this code
These lines appear under other codes or headings in the schedule and name this code.
Note (2): For chronic residuals, rate under diagnostic code 5003.
Note (3): The ratings for the active process will not be combined with the residual ratings for limitation of motion, ankylosis, or diagnostic code 5003. Instead, assign the higher evaluation.
Note (2): 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.
Under diagnostic code 5009 (Other specified forms of arthropathy (excluding gout))
5242 Degenerative arthritis, degenerative disc disease other than intervertebral disc syndrome (also, see either DC 5003 or 5010)
Related codes in the regulation
- 5200 Scapulohumeral articulation, ankylosis ofRated using
- 5013 Osteoporosis, residuals ofMentioned together
- 5014 Osteomalacia, residuals ofMentioned together
- 5015 Bones, neoplasm, benignMentioned together
- 5016 Osteitis deformansMentioned together
- 5017 GoutMentioned together
- 5019 BursitisMentioned together
- 5021 MyositisMentioned together
- 5023 Heterotopic ossificationMentioned together
- 5024 Tenosynovitis, tendinitis, tendinosis or tendinopathyMentioned together
- 5002 Multi-joint arthritis (except post-traumatic and gout), 2 or more joints, as an active processMentioned together
- 5009 Other specified forms of arthropathy (excluding gout)Mentioned together
- 5242 Degenerative arthritis, degenerative disc disease other than intervertebral disc syndrome (also, see either DC 5003 or 5010)Mentioned together
The VA exam form for this condition
VA examiners record their findings on a Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ). Reading it shows you what the exam will measure and ask.
- Shoulder and/or Arm (PDF, VA) · Depending on the body part
- Elbow & Forearm (PDF, VA) · Depending on the body part
- Wrist (PDF, VA) · Depending on the body part
- Hand and Finger (PDF, VA) · Depending on the body part
- Hip and Thigh (PDF, VA) · Depending on the body part
- Knee and Lower Leg (PDF, VA) · Depending on the body part
- Ankle (PDF, VA) · Depending on the body part
- Foot Conditions Including Flatfoot (Pes Planus) (PDF, VA) · Depending on the body part
- Back (Thoracolumbar Spine) (PDF, VA) · Depending on the body part
- Neck (Cervical Spine) (PDF, VA) · Depending on the body part
Rules that apply to this body system
Where this comes from
38 CFR 4.71a, VA's Schedule for Rating Disabilities, from the official eCFR.
Regulation text current as of October 16, 2026.
Change history for this code (38 CFR Part 4, Appendix A): Added July 6, 1950; title February 7, 2021.
Read it on eCFR.govInformation, not advice
This page shows the text of VA's rating regulation for information. It is not a rating estimate, and it is not legal or medical advice. VA decides every rating on the evidence in your file.
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