---
title: "DC 5277 - Weak foot, bilateral:"
diagnostic_code: "5277"
body_system: "Musculoskeletal System"
cfr_section: "§ 4.71a"
canonical: "https://veteranai.co/va-rating-schedule/musculoskeletal/5277-weak-foot-bilateral"
source: "https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-4.71a"
updated: "2026-07-21T20:06:02.235440Z"
---

# DC 5277 - Weak foot, bilateral:

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

## Rating criteria

| Rating | Criteria |
| --- | --- |
| 10% | 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.*

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