VASRD 5019 · Musculoskeletal System

Bursitis VA Disability Rating

Inflammation of fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that cushion bones and joints, causing pain or limited motion.

VA Rating Tiers

RatingCriteria
20%Swollen or stiff joint
10%Mild swelling or soreness

How the VA Evaluates Bursitis

Joint stiffness, pain on motion, history of flare-ups and physical exam.

Approval rate

Moderate (~60%) with diagnosis and repeated symptoms.

Annual service-connected

2,800 veterans

Average rating

10%

Best Evidence to Gather

  • •Ortho exam reports
  • •Range of motion testing

Strategy Tips

  • •Document affected joint use problems
  • •Describe how pain limits daily tasks

C&P Exam Pitfalls

  • •Mistaking it for arthritis
  • •No current treatment

Common Filing Mistakes

  • •Not showing limitation of motion
  • •Lack of recurrent flare documentation

Onset Patterns

  • •Repetitive movement or post-trauma

Secondary Conditions

Conditions commonly linked to Bursitis. Service-connecting a secondary condition can increase your combined rating.

  • Tendonitis

    Inflammation spreads

  • Joint Instability

    Chronic irritation

Common questions about Bursitis

Is Bursitis a VA-rated disability?
Yes. The VA rates Bursitis under VASRD diagnostic code 5019 (Musculoskeletal System). Inflammation of fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that cushion bones and joints, causing pain or limited motion.
What VA disability rating can I get for Bursitis?
Possible VA ratings for Bursitis are 20%, 10%. Examples: 20% — Swollen or stiff joint; 10% — Mild swelling or soreness.
What's the typical VA rating awarded for Bursitis?
The average awarded rating for Bursitis is 10%. Roughly 2,800 veterans are service-connected for Bursitis each year. Typical approval likelihood: Moderate (~60%) with diagnosis and repeated symptoms..
What evidence helps prove Bursitis for VA disability?
Strong evidence for a Bursitis claim includes: Ortho exam reports; Range of motion testing.
What mistakes should veterans avoid when claiming Bursitis?
Common pitfalls when filing for Bursitis: Not showing limitation of motion; Lack of recurrent flare documentation.
What conditions are commonly secondary to Bursitis?
Conditions often service-connected as secondary to Bursitis include: Tendonitis, Joint Instability. Filing for secondary conditions can increase a veteran's combined VA rating.

Estimate your combined rating

See how Bursitis combines with your other service-connected conditions using the official VA combined-ratings formula.

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