Decompression illness
38 CFR § 4.71a — Musculoskeletal system
Rated under diagnostic code 5011 in 38 CFR § 4.71a when the evidence supports this diagnosis and residuals.
Diagnostic code
5011
DC 5011 covers decompression illness in the musculoskeletal schedule. Ratings follow the percentage criteria and notes assigned to this code in Part 4—not a civilian recreational-diving certificate alone.
Service records, treatment after exposure, and long-term neurologic or orthopedic follow-up may all matter. An accredited representative can help align your file with the regulatory language in effect for your claim.
Official VA rating criteria — decompression illness (DC 5011)
Residuals of decompression illness are rated on neurologic, musculoskeletal, and pulmonary findings under DC 5011 and related schedules as applicable.
| Rating | VA criteria (themes) | Key evidence at this level |
|---|---|---|
| 60–100% | Severe neurologic residuals, pulmonary impairment, or multi-organ dysfunction per schedule. | Hyperbaric records, neurology, PFTs. |
| 20–40% | Partial residuals with documented limitation or pain syndromes. | Specialty exams, functional testing. |
| 10% | Mild residual symptoms meeting minimum compensable criteria. | Treating provider statements tied to objective findings. |
| 0% | Full recovery without residual disability. | Negative workup after event. |
Source: 38 CFR § 4.71a — DC 5011.
Service connection — common paths
Direct service connection
In-service decompression event with current residuals may support direct connection when documented in service and linked to current disability.
Secondary service connection
Rare as secondary unless medical evidence ties another SC condition to the decompression context.
Secondary conditions sometimes pursued with Decompression illness
Residuals of decompression illness may include neurologic, musculoskeletal, or mental health effects when documented.
Overlap with other neurologic schedules depending on symptoms.
When exam findings support persistent limitation after treatment.
“Strong” / “Moderate” / “Developing” reflect how often these theories appear in educational materials—not a prediction of approval. Use accredited help for your specific file.
Already service-connected for something else?
Often tied to in-service diving or pressure exposure; secondary theories to other SC conditions are uncommon without specific medical opinions.
Service records documenting exposure support direct theories.
Last verified against 38 CFR (eCFR Part 4):
Rating criteria (38 CFR Part 4)
Diagnostic code 5011 — Decompression illness — is listed under 38 CFR § 4.71a in 38 CFR Part 4. The paragraphs below summarize how this code is used; the official schedule text controls exact percentages, formulas, and notes.
Schedule summary (educational, not a substitute for the regulation): Use 38 CFR § 4.71a and locate DC 5011 for the full rating table and notes.
Exact rating criteria: Open Part 4 in the eCFR (link under “Official source” below). Locate your diagnostic code number (5011) in the correct body-system subpart, or use Find in Page (Ctrl+F / ⌘F) for “5011”. Copy the verbatim rating table, including any parenthetical notes, exceptions, and cross-references, for the version of Part 4 that applies to your effective date.
Effective dates & which schedule version applies
Which diagnostic code, percentage, and effective date apply depends on the facts of your claim and the version of the rating schedule in force for the period being decided. Generally, VA applies the schedule in effect at the specified time under 38 U.S.C. § 5110 and implementing rules, subject to exceptions (e.g., protected ratings, liberalizing law changes—see regulation and VA manual policy as applicable).
For older claims, the **current** eCFR may not match the text that applied years ago. If your decision references a prior percentage or code, compare against the Part 4 text **as of** your claim’s relevant dates; historical Federal Register / CFR snapshots may be needed for precise comparison.
The “Last verified” date on this page is when we last checked this educational summary against the electronic CFR—not the date of any VA policy or your personal claim decision.
Notes for your claim
Evidence: Show that your diagnosis and severity match the factors the schedule names for DC 5011 (e.g., measurements, frequency, treatment, functional loss), with medical and lay evidence as appropriate.
C&P exams: Results should reflect the schedule’s requirements (correct joints measured, correct formulas). If the exam omits required findings, consider submitting records or requesting clarification.
If you disagree with the DC, percentage, or effective date, review the Part 4 text for your period and consider a supplemental claim or appeal with a VA-accredited representative.
This site does not provide legal advice.
Official source
38 CFR Part 4 (eCFR) — locate diagnostic code 5011 in the subpart for your body system (use Find in Page if needed).
Discuss how your evidence fits DC 5011 with a VA-accredited representative. Quick search: DC code lookup.
⚠️ Important Disclaimer
This page provides general educational information only based on public VA regulations (38 CFR) and va.gov resources. It is not legal, medical, or claims assistance. Ratings and service connections are decided case-by-case by the VA based on the individual veteran’s evidence. We do not prepare claims, generate documents, or provide personalized advice. Always consult a VA-accredited Veterans Service Organization (VSO), attorney, or your physician for help with your specific situation. Verify the latest rules on va.gov.