Decompression illness (DC 5011)

Body system: Musculoskeletal SystemRegulation: 38 CFR § 4.71aDBQ: DBQ RHEUM Arthritis

Decompression illness, also known as 'the bends,' happens when nitrogen bubbles form in your blood and tissues after rapid changes in pressure - typically from diving or aviation activities. This condition doesn't have specific rating percentages listed under this code, which means the VA will rate your symptoms based on how they affect different body systems. Your rating will depend on which parts of your body are impacted and how severe your ongoing symptoms are.

Rating levels

  • -1% — This condition doesn't have its own specific rating criteria. Instead, the VA will rate whatever symptoms or problems the decompression illness causes in your body using the rating rules for those specific conditions. For example, if it affects your joints, they'll use joint rating criteria; if it affects your nerves, they'll use nerve damage rating criteria.

Disclaimer: This tool is for informational purposes only and is not legal or medical advice. Always consult with your VSO representative or a qualified veterans benefits attorney for guidance on your specific claim.