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
Knee Replacement vs Knee Instability
Lumbar or Cervical Strain vs Intervertebral Disc Syndrome
Lumbar or Cervical Strain vs Degenerative Arthritis of the Spine
Hypertension vs Coronary Artery Disease
Asthma vs COPD
PTSD vs Major Depressive Disorder
Generalized Anxiety Disorder vs PTSD
Sciatic Nerve Paralysis vs Femoral Nerve Paralysis
Knee Flexion Limitation vs Knee Extension Limitation
Major Depressive Disorder vs Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Coronary Artery Disease vs Hypertension
Intervertebral Disc Syndrome vs Degenerative Arthritis of the Spine
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.