---
title: "DC 5280 - Hallux valgus, unilateral"
diagnostic_code: "5280"
body_system: "Musculoskeletal System"
cfr_section: "§ 4.71a"
canonical: "https://veteranai.co/va-rating-schedule/musculoskeletal/5280-bunions"
source: "https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-4.71a"
updated: "2026-07-21T02:55:08.017005Z"
---

# DC 5280 - Hallux valgus, unilateral

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

## Rating criteria

| Rating | Criteria |
| --- | --- |
| 10% | Operated with resection of metatarsal head |
| 10% | Severe, if equivalent to amputation of great toe |

# Hallux Valgus (Unilateral) — VA Disability Rating (Diagnostic Code 5280)

## Understanding the Condition

**Hallux valgus** is a condition affecting the great toe on one foot (unilateral). It falls under the VA's rating schedule for the **Musculoskeletal System** and is evaluated under **Diagnostic Code 5280** in **38 CFR § 4.71a**.

If you have a service-connected hallux valgus condition, the VA assigns a disability rating based on the criteria set out in the rating schedule below.

## Available Rating Levels

The VA rates unilateral hallux valgus at the following level:

| Rating | Criteria |
| ------ | -------- |
| **10%** | Operated with resection of metatarsal head |
| **10%** | Severe, if equivalent to amputation of great toe |

## What the VA Looks For

When evaluating hallux valgus of one foot, the VA reviews your condition against the two criteria that support a **10%** rating:

- Whether the condition was **operated on with resection of the metatarsal head**, or
- Whether the condition is **severe** — specifically, severe to a degree considered **equivalent to amputation of the great toe**.

The VA determines your rating by comparing your documented condition to these criteria as described in the rating schedule.

---

*This information is drawn directly from the VA rating schedule under 38 CFR § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5280. Individual ratings depend on the specific facts and medical evidence in each case.*

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