---
title: "DC 5311 - Group XI. Function: Propulsion, plantar flexion of foot (1); stabilization of arch (2, 3); flexion of toes (4, 5); Flexion of knee (6). Posterior and lateral crural muscles, and muscles of the calf: (1) Triceps surae (gastrocnemius and soleus); (2) tibialis posterior; (3) peroneus longus; (4) peroneus brevis; (5) flexor hallucis longus; (6) flexor digitorum longus; (7) popliteus; (8) plantaris"
diagnostic_code: "5311"
body_system: "Muscle Injuries"
cfr_section: "§ 4.73"
canonical: "https://veteranai.co/va-rating-schedule/muscle-injuries/5311-group-xi-function-propulsion-plantar-flexion-of-foot-1"
source: "https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-4.73"
updated: "2026-07-21T17:58:01.400686Z"
---

# DC 5311 - Group XI. Function: Propulsion, plantar flexion of foot (1); stabilization of arch (2, 3); flexion of toes (4, 5); Flexion of knee (6). Posterior and lateral crural muscles, and muscles of the calf: (1) Triceps surae (gastrocnemius and soleus); (2) tibialis posterior; (3) peroneus longus; (4) peroneus brevis; (5) flexor hallucis longus; (6) flexor digitorum longus; (7) popliteus; (8) plantaris

Rated under § 4.73. Body system: Muscle Injuries.

## Rating criteria

| Rating | Criteria |
| --- | --- |
| 30% | Severe |
| 20% | Moderately Severe |
| 10% | Moderate |
| 0% | Slight |

# VA Disability Rating: Muscle Group XI Injuries (Diagnostic Code 5311)

## Understanding Muscle Group XI Injuries

Muscle Group XI covers the posterior and lateral crural muscles and the muscles of the calf. These muscles are responsible for several important movements in the lower leg and foot, including:

- **Propulsion and plantar flexion of the foot** (pointing the foot downward)
- **Stabilization of the arch** of the foot
- **Flexion of the toes**
- **Flexion of the knee**

The muscles in this group include:

1. Triceps surae (gastrocnemius and soleus)
2. Tibialis posterior
3. Peroneus longus
4. Peroneus brevis
5. Flexor hallucis longus
6. Flexor digitorum longus
7. Popliteus
8. Plantaris

Because these muscles power essential functions like walking, standing, and balancing, an injury to Muscle Group XI can affect mobility and everyday activity.

This condition is rated under the **Muscle Injuries** body system, in accordance with **§ 4.73** of the VA rating schedule, using **Diagnostic Code 5311**.

## Available Rating Levels

The VA assigns a disability rating for Muscle Group XI injuries based on the severity of the muscle injury. The rating levels are:

| Rating | Severity of Injury |
|--------|--------------------|
| **30%** | Severe |
| **20%** | Moderately Severe |
| **10%** | Moderate |
| **0%** | Slight |

## What the VA Looks For

When rating a Muscle Group XI injury, the VA evaluates the **severity of the muscle injury**, classifying it as *slight*, *moderate*, *moderately severe*, or *severe*. The classification of severity determines which rating level applies.

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*This information is intended for general educational purposes and reflects the rating framework for Diagnostic Code 5311 under § 4.73. It does not constitute legal advice, and it does not guarantee any particular rating or outcome.*

Source: https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-4.73