---
title: "DC 5281 - Hallux rigidus, unilateral, severe"
diagnostic_code: "5281"
body_system: "Musculoskeletal System"
cfr_section: "§ 4.71a"
canonical: "https://veteranai.co/va-rating-schedule/musculoskeletal/5281-hallux-rigidus-unilateral-severe"
source: "https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-4.71a"
updated: "2026-07-21T02:55:21.942389Z"
---

# DC 5281 - Hallux rigidus, unilateral, severe

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

Rate as hallux valgus, severe.

## Rating criteria

No itemised criteria have been extracted for this code. Use the official source.

## Notes

- 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

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### 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).

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### 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.

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### Important Note

- **This condition is not to be combined with claw foot ratings.**

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### 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.

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*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.*

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