VA Disability Rating for Osteoporosis, residuals of (DC 5013)

Body system: Musculoskeletal SystemRegulation: 38 CFR § 4.71aDBQ: DBQ MUSC Bones and Other Skeletal Conditions

DC 5013 covers the residuals of osteoporosis, bone that has become thin and brittle. The regulation rates DCs 5013 through 5024 as degenerative arthritis under DC 5003, on the limitation of motion of each affected joint (38 CFR 4.71a): a major joint (shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip, knee or ankle) or a group of minor joints whose limited motion is not enough for a compensable rating under its own code gets 10% under DC 5003 for each such joint or group, combined rather than added, when the limitation is objectively confirmed by swelling, muscle spasm or painful motion. Fractures caused by the condition are rated under their own codes.

Rating levels

  • Note — Osteoporosis is a condition in which bones become thin and fragile, increasing fracture risk. The VA rates the residuals — typically vertebral compression fractures, limitation of joint motion, or degenerative changes — under 38 CFR § 4.71a using analogous codes, not osteoporosis itself.

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.

Osteomyelitis, acute, subacute, or chronic (DC 5000)
The plain-English rating criteria and Board decision data for DC 5000.
Bones and joints, tuberculosis of, active or inactive (DC 5001)
The plain-English rating criteria and Board decision data for DC 5001.
Multi-joint arthritis (except post-traumatic and gout), 2 or more joints, as an active process (DC 5002)
The plain-English rating criteria and Board decision data for DC 5002.
Degenerative arthritis, other than post-traumatic (DC 5003)
The plain-English rating criteria and Board decision data for DC 5003.
Arthritis, gonorrheal (DC 5004)
The plain-English rating criteria and Board decision data for DC 5004.