VA Rating Comparisons
Side-by-side rating-criteria comparisons of conditions veterans often confuse. Each page shows what the VA rates for each code under 38 CFR Part 4. These are factual references. They do not advise which condition to claim.
Knee Instability vs Knee Flexion Limitation
DC 5257 · DC 5260
Knee Replacement vs Knee Instability
DC 5055 · DC 5257
Lumbar or Cervical Strain vs Intervertebral Disc Syndrome
DC 5237 · DC 5243
Lumbar or Cervical Strain vs Degenerative Arthritis of the Spine
DC 5237 · DC 5242
Hypertension vs Coronary Artery Disease
DC 7101 · DC 7005
Asthma vs COPD
DC 6602 · DC 6604
PTSD vs Major Depressive Disorder
DC 9411 · DC 9434
Generalized Anxiety Disorder vs PTSD
DC 9400 · DC 9411
Sciatic Nerve Paralysis vs Femoral Nerve Paralysis
DC 8520 · DC 8526
Knee Flexion Limitation vs Knee Extension Limitation
DC 5260 · DC 5261
Major Depressive Disorder vs Generalized Anxiety Disorder
DC 9434 · DC 9400
Intervertebral Disc Syndrome vs Degenerative Arthritis of the Spine
DC 5243 · DC 5242
The correct diagnostic code for a given veteran is the one that matches the diagnosis and the medical evidence, not the one with the higher ceiling. For help with a specific claim, work with a free VA-accredited representative. See also the pyramiding guide.