VA Diagnostic Code 5281Hallux rigidus, unilateral, severe
Rated under § 4.71a. No rating levels have been extracted for this code yet — use the official source.
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Summary
Rate as hallux valgus, severe.
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This code has no itemised criteria in our copy of the schedule. Use the official source link for the controlling text.
Notes on this code
These notes are part of the regulation. They change how the levels above are applied.
- Note: Not to be combined with claw foot ratings.
Hallux Rigidus (Diagnostic Code 5281)
Understanding Severe Unilateral Hallux Rigidus and How the VA Rates It
Diagnostic Code: 5281 Regulation: 38 CFR § 4.71a Body System: Musculoskeletal System
What This Condition Is
Hallux rigidus is a condition affecting the big toe (the "hallux"). This entry specifically addresses severe hallux rigidus that affects one foot (unilateral).
How the VA Rates This Condition
Under Diagnostic Code 5281, the VA does not use a separate set of percentage levels for hallux rigidus. Instead, the rating criteria state:
Rate as hallux valgus, severe.
This means that severe, unilateral hallux rigidus is evaluated using the rating approach that applies to severe hallux valgus.
Important Note
- This condition is not to be combined with claw foot ratings.
What the VA Looks For
When evaluating this condition, the VA applies the rating criteria for severe hallux valgus, as directed by Diagnostic Code 5281 within the musculoskeletal rating framework of 38 CFR § 4.71a.
This information is drawn directly from the VA rating schedule and is provided for general educational purposes. It does not predict the outcome of any individual claim or constitute legal advice.
These criteria are a rendering of § 4.71a, diagnostic code 5281. The official version is the one that governs your rating.
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