VA Diagnostic Code 5277Weak foot, bilateral:
A single 10% rating under § 4.71a. Here is what the VA requires for it.
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A symptomatic condition secondary to many constitutional conditions, characterized by atrophy of the musculature, disturbed circulation, and weakness: Rate the underlying condition, minimum rating
Weak Foot (Bilateral) — VA Disability Rating (Diagnostic Code 5277)
Understanding This Condition
Bilateral weak foot is a musculoskeletal condition affecting both feet. Under the VA rating schedule, it is described as a symptomatic condition that develops secondary to many constitutional conditions. It is characterized by:
- Atrophy of the musculature (wasting or shrinking of the muscles)
- Disturbed circulation (impaired blood flow)
- Weakness
This condition is rated under § 4.71a, which covers the Musculoskeletal System, using Diagnostic Code 5277.
Available Rating Level
The VA rating schedule provides the following level for bilateral weak foot:
| Rating | What It Reflects |
|---|---|
| 10% | A symptomatic condition secondary to many constitutional conditions, characterized by atrophy of the musculature, disturbed circulation, and weakness. |
Important note on how this is rated: For bilateral weak foot, the VA rates the underlying condition, with the 10% level serving as a minimum rating.
What the VA Looks For
When evaluating bilateral weak foot under Diagnostic Code 5277, the VA considers:
- Whether the condition is symptomatic
- Whether it is secondary to a constitutional condition
- The presence of atrophy of the musculature
- Evidence of disturbed circulation
- The presence of weakness
Because this diagnostic code directs that the underlying condition be rated, the VA looks to the condition from which the weak foot arises, applying the 10% level as a minimum rating.
This information is drawn directly from the VA rating schedule under § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5277. It is provided for general educational purposes and does not guarantee any particular rating or outcome.
These criteria are a rendering of § 4.71a, diagnostic code 5277. The official version is the one that governs your rating.
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