VASRD 5003 · Musculoskeletal System

Degenerative Arthritis VA Disability Rating

A breakdown of joints causing pain, stiffness, and reduced motion.

VA Rating Tiers

RatingCriteria
20%Multiple joints hurt with flare-ups
10%Mild but widespread joint arthritis

How the VA Evaluates Degenerative Arthritis

X-ray evidence of joint degeneration and pain on motion.

Approval rate

High – common in older or physically active veterans.

Annual service-connected

580,000 veterans

Average rating

10%

Best Evidence to Gather

  • •X-rays or MRI showing arthritis
  • •Doctor’s notes describing joint pain and limitations

Strategy Tips

  • •Submit all imaging results
  • •Describe how it limits mobility or function
  • •Include treatment plans like physical therapy

C&P Exam Pitfalls

  • •No imaging submitted
  • •Symptoms not clearly tied to service or repetitive stress

Common Filing Mistakes

  • •Not showing imaging proof
  • •Failing to describe flare-up frequency

Onset Patterns

  • •Develops from long-term wear or past joint injuries
  • •Often gradual and worsens with age

Secondary Conditions

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

  • Joint Instability

    Arthritis weakens joint support

  • Depression

    Chronic pain impacts quality of life

Common Among These Military Jobs

Military occupational specialties (MOS) where Degenerative Arthritis is frequently claimed.

Air Force3E3X1StructuralMarines6046Aircraft Maintenance Support Equipment TechnicianMarines6062Aircraft Intermediate Level Hydraulic/Pneumatic MechanicMarines6072Aircraft Intermediate Level Structures MechanicMarines6132Helicopter Power Plants Mechanic T-58Marines6153Helicopter Dynamic Components MechanicMarines6154Helicopter Airframe MechanicMarines6174Helicopter Engine MechanicMarines6176Helicopter Airframe and Power Plant MechanicMarines6312Fixed Wing Aircraft Power Plant Mechanic T-56Marines6313Fixed Wing Aircraft Power Plant Mechanic J-52Marines6314Fixed Wing Aircraft Power Plant Mechanic F-402

Common questions about Degenerative Arthritis

Is Degenerative Arthritis a VA-rated disability?
Yes. The VA rates Degenerative Arthritis under VASRD diagnostic code 5003 (Musculoskeletal System). A breakdown of joints causing pain, stiffness, and reduced motion.
What VA disability rating can I get for Degenerative Arthritis?
Possible VA ratings for Degenerative Arthritis are 20%, 10%. Examples: 20% — Multiple joints hurt with flare-ups; 10% — Mild but widespread joint arthritis.
What's the typical VA rating awarded for Degenerative Arthritis?
The average awarded rating for Degenerative Arthritis is 10%. Roughly 580,000 veterans are service-connected for Degenerative Arthritis each year. Typical approval likelihood: High – common in older or physically active veterans..
What evidence helps prove Degenerative Arthritis for VA disability?
Strong evidence for a Degenerative Arthritis claim includes: X-rays or MRI showing arthritis; Doctor’s notes describing joint pain and limitations.
What mistakes should veterans avoid when claiming Degenerative Arthritis?
Common pitfalls when filing for Degenerative Arthritis: Not showing imaging proof; Failing to describe flare-up frequency.
What conditions are commonly secondary to Degenerative Arthritis?
Conditions often service-connected as secondary to Degenerative Arthritis include: Joint Instability, Depression. Filing for secondary conditions can increase a veteran's combined VA rating.

Estimate your combined rating

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

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