Post-traumatic arthritis
38 CFR § 4.71a — Musculoskeletal system
Schedule listing: post-traumatic arthritis.
Diagnostic code
5010
DC 5010 addresses arthritis that follows a traumatic injury. Ratings are generally based on how the schedule measures limitation of motion, pain, and instability in the affected joint(s), consistent with the notes for this code in 38 CFR § 4.71a.
You may also have joint-specific diagnostic codes (knee, ankle, shoulder, etc.) depending on how the VA frames the disability. Post-traumatic arthritis claims often need clear evidence linking current degenerative change to an in-service injury rather than only age or genetics.
For comparison, degenerative arthritis without the post-traumatic pathway may be rated under DC 5003 (osteoarthritis)when the facts support that code instead.
Official VA rating criteria — post-traumatic arthritis (DC 5010)
Post-traumatic arthritis is rated under DC 5010 with emphasis on limitation of motion, pain, and joint surface damage after injury.
| Rating | VA criteria (themes) | Key evidence at this level |
|---|---|---|
| 30–40% | Severe arthritis with major ROM loss or deformity after trauma. | Comparison imaging pre/post injury, orthopedic exams. |
| 10–20% | Moderate arthritis with documented limitation. | X-ray joint space narrowing, ROM sheets. |
| 10% | Mild traumatic arthritis with painful motion. | Painful motion documentation. |
| 0% | Prior injury without current arthritic disability. | Normal exam despite old imaging findings. |
Source: 38 CFR § 4.71a — DC 5010.
Service connection — common paths
Direct service connection
When post-service arthritis is tied to an in-service joint injury with continuity of symptomatology.
Secondary service connection
When arthritis in the joint is tied to a different service-connected injury or condition under § 3.310.
Secondary conditions sometimes pursued with Post-traumatic arthritis
Post-traumatic arthritis in one joint often affects gait and loading on other joints and the spine; secondary theories must be medically supported.
Compensation patterns may be argued with treating provider support.
Chronic pain and activity limits.
“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?
PTA is often secondary to an earlier service-connected joint injury when arthritis is shown to have developed from that injury.
Medical opinion linking post-traumatic arthritis to the SC injury.
Last verified against 38 CFR (eCFR Part 4):
Rating criteria (38 CFR Part 4)
Diagnostic code 5010 — Post-traumatic arthritis — 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 5010 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 (5010) in the correct body-system subpart, or use Find in Page (Ctrl+F / ⌘F) for “5010”. 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 5010 (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 5010 in the subpart for your body system (use Find in Page if needed).
Discuss how your evidence fits DC 5010 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.