---
title: "DC 5275 - Bones, of the lower extremity, shortening of:"
diagnostic_code: "5275"
body_system: "Musculoskeletal System"
cfr_section: "§ 4.71a"
canonical: "https://veteranai.co/va-rating-schedule/musculoskeletal/5275-bones-of-the-lower-extremity-shortening-of"
source: "https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-4.71a"
updated: "2026-07-21T20:05:23.198859Z"
---

# DC 5275 - Bones, of the lower extremity, shortening of:

Rated under § 4.71a. Body system: Musculoskeletal System.

## Rating criteria

| Rating | Criteria |
| --- | --- |
| 60% | Over 4 inches (10.2 cms.) |
| 50% | 3½ to 4 inches (8.9 cms. to 10.2 cms.) |
| 40% | 3 to 3½ inches (7.6 cms. to 8.9 cms.) |
| 30% | 2½ to 3 inches (6.4 cms. to 7.6 cms.) |
| 20% | 2 to 2½ inches (5.1 cms. to 6.4 cms.) |
| 10% | 1¼ to 2 inches (3.2 cms. to 5.1 cms.) |

## Notes

- Note: Measure both lower extremities from anterior superior spine of the ilium to the internal malleolus of the tibia. Not to be combined with other ratings for fracture or faulty union in the same extremity.
- 3 Also entitled to special monthly compensation.

# Shortening of the Bones of the Lower Extremity (Diagnostic Code 5275)

*Musculoskeletal System · 38 CFR § 4.71a*

## Understanding This Condition

Shortening of the bones of the lower extremity refers to a measurable difference in leg length that can result from bone injuries or their effects. Under Diagnostic Code 5275, the VA rates this condition based on how much shortening is present, measured in inches (and centimeters).

## Available Rating Levels

The VA assigns a disability rating according to the amount of shortening measured:

| Rating | Amount of Shortening |
|--------|----------------------|
| **60%** | Over 4 inches (10.2 cms.) |
| **50%** | 3½ to 4 inches (8.9 cms. to 10.2 cms.) |
| **40%** | 3 to 3½ inches (7.6 cms. to 8.9 cms.) |
| **30%** | 2½ to 3 inches (6.4 cms. to 7.6 cms.) |
| **20%** | 2 to 2½ inches (5.1 cms. to 6.4 cms.) |
| **10%** | 1¼ to 2 inches (3.2 cms. to 5.1 cms.) |

## What the VA Looks For

- **How the measurement is taken:** Both lower extremities are measured from the anterior superior spine of the ilium to the internal malleolus of the tibia.
- **How ratings are combined:** This rating is **not** to be combined with other ratings for fracture or faulty union in the same extremity.
- **Special monthly compensation:** Certain levels of shortening may also entitle a veteran to special monthly compensation.

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*This information is drawn directly from the VA rating schedule under 38 CFR § 4.71a. It is provided for general understanding and does not guarantee any particular rating or outcome.*

Source: https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-4.71a