VA Diagnostic Code 5258Cartilage, semilunar, dislocated, with frequent episodes of “locking,” pain, and effusion into the joint
A single 20% rating under § 4.71a. Here is what the VA requires for it.
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- 20%
Cartilage, semilunar, dislocated, with frequent episodes of “locking,” pain, and effusion into the joint
Dislocated Semilunar Cartilage (Knee Meniscus) — VA Diagnostic Code 5258
Understanding how the VA rates a dislocated semilunar cartilage with locking, pain, and joint effusion.
What This Condition Is
The semilunar cartilage refers to the meniscus in the knee — the crescent-shaped cartilage that cushions the joint. Under Diagnostic Code 5258, the VA addresses a dislocated semilunar cartilage that causes frequent episodes of "locking," pain, and effusion (fluid buildup) into the joint.
This condition falls under the Musculoskeletal System and is evaluated under 38 CFR § 4.71a.
Available Rating Level
Under Diagnostic Code 5258, there is a single disability rating available:
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 20% | Cartilage, semilunar, dislocated, with frequent episodes of "locking," pain, and effusion into the joint |
What the VA Looks For
When evaluating a claim under this code, the VA considers whether the semilunar cartilage is dislocated and whether it is accompanied by the following symptoms:
- Frequent episodes of "locking" in the knee joint
- Pain
- Effusion (fluid accumulation) into the joint
The presence of these features together is what the 20% evaluation describes.
This information is drawn directly from the VA rating schedule (Diagnostic Code 5258, 38 CFR § 4.71a) and is provided for general educational purposes. It is not legal advice, and it does not guarantee any particular claim outcome.
These criteria are a rendering of § 4.71a, diagnostic code 5258. The official version is the one that governs your rating.
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