Compartment syndrome (DC 5331)

Body system: Muscle InjuriesRegulation: 38 CFR § 4.73

Compartment syndrome happens when pressure builds up inside muscle compartments (sections of muscles enclosed by tough tissue), cutting off blood flow and potentially causing permanent damage. The VA doesn't have specific rating percentages for this code - instead, they rate each affected muscle group separately using other diagnostic codes and then combine those ratings. This means your final rating depends on how severely each muscle group was damaged and how many areas are affected.

Rating levels

  • -1% — Diagnostic Code 5331 covers compartment syndrome (when pressure builds inside a muscle compartment, cutting off blood flow and potentially causing permanent muscle damage). DC 5331 itself has no rating ladder. The VA rates each affected muscle group separately under 38 CFR § 4.73 based on functional impairment, plus any residual injury, scars, or surgical complications. Multiple muscle-group ratings combine under § 4.25 (the combined ratings table).

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.