VASRD 5023 · Musculoskeletal

Tenosynovitis VA Disability Rating

Inflammation of the sheath that surrounds a tendon, causing pain and stiffness.

VA Rating Tiers

RatingCriteria
10%Inflamed tendon sheath makes movement painful.

How the VA Evaluates Tenosynovitis

Diagnosed by clinical exam with tenderness and swelling along tendon path, supported by ultrasound or MRI if needed.

Approval rate

Moderate – well-documented repetitive use injuries can support claims.

Annual service-connected

1,700 veterans

Average rating

10%

Best Evidence to Gather

  • •Clinical findings of localized swelling
  • •Imaging showing thickening of tendon sheath
  • •Physical therapy or injection treatment records

Strategy Tips

  • •Show functional limitations like grip loss
  • •Link symptoms to service activities

C&P Exam Pitfalls

  • •No documentation of flare pattern
  • •Assuming tendon pain without proof

Common Filing Mistakes

  • •Failing to show functional loss
  • •Missing physical exam details

Onset Patterns

  • •Triggered by repetitive movement or trauma
  • •Flares with overuse and improves with rest

Secondary Conditions

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

  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

    Wrist tendon inflammation may lead to nerve compression

Common questions about Tenosynovitis

Is Tenosynovitis a VA-rated disability?
Yes. The VA rates Tenosynovitis under VASRD diagnostic code 5023 (Musculoskeletal). Inflammation of the sheath that surrounds a tendon, causing pain and stiffness.
What VA disability rating can I get for Tenosynovitis?
Possible VA ratings for Tenosynovitis are 10%. Examples: 10% — Inflamed tendon sheath makes movement painful..
What's the typical VA rating awarded for Tenosynovitis?
The average awarded rating for Tenosynovitis is 10%. Roughly 1,700 veterans are service-connected for Tenosynovitis each year. Typical approval likelihood: Moderate – well-documented repetitive use injuries can support claims..
What evidence helps prove Tenosynovitis for VA disability?
Strong evidence for a Tenosynovitis claim includes: Clinical findings of localized swelling; Imaging showing thickening of tendon sheath; Physical therapy or injection treatment records.
What mistakes should veterans avoid when claiming Tenosynovitis?
Common pitfalls when filing for Tenosynovitis: Failing to show functional loss; Missing physical exam details.
What conditions are commonly secondary to Tenosynovitis?
Conditions often service-connected as secondary to Tenosynovitis include: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Filing for secondary conditions can increase a veteran's combined VA rating.

Estimate your combined rating

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

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