Os calcis or astragalus, malunion of (DC 5273)

Body system: Musculoskeletal SystemRegulation: 38 CFR § 4.71a

This diagnostic code covers malunion (improper healing) of two specific bones in your foot and ankle - the heel bone (os calcis) and the ankle bone that connects to your leg (astragalus). When these bones don't heal properly after a fracture, they can leave you with permanent deformity. The VA rates this condition at 10% for moderate deformity or 20% for marked deformity, based on how visibly changed the bone structure is and how it affects your foot's function.

Rating levels

  • 20% — The bones in your heel (os calcis) or ankle (astragalus) healed improperly after a fracture, creating a significant visible deformity that clearly changes the normal shape of your foot or ankle. This malunion (improper bone healing) must be obvious enough that it's considered "marked," meaning the deformity is readily apparent and substantially alters the foot's normal appearance.
  • 10% — You have a moderate amount of visible bone deformity in your heel bone (os calcis) or ankle bone (astragalus) that didn't heal properly after a fracture. The bones healed in the wrong position, creating a noticeable change in the normal shape of your foot or ankle, but it's not severe enough to cause major functional problems.

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.