VA Disability Rating for Bursitis
Diagnostic Code 5019 · 38 CFR §4.71a
What Is It?
Bursitis is inflammation of the bursae, which are small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the bones, tendons, and muscles near your joints. When these sacs become inflamed, movement of the nearby joint becomes painful. The most commonly affected areas are the shoulders, elbows, hips, and knees. Bursitis is extremely common among veterans due to the repetitive physical demands of military service, including running, rucking, kneeling, overhead work, and carrying heavy equipment. VA rates bursitis based on the limitation of motion it causes in the affected joint.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 30% | Bursitis causing significant limitation of motion in the affected joint, rated based on the specific joint's range of motion criteria |
| 20% | Moderate limitation of motion with painful movement |
| 10% | Painful motion with noncompensable limitation of motion, or X-ray evidence of involvement of two or more major joints |
| 0% | Documented bursitis with full range of motion and no functional limitation |
Evidence Needed
- Medical records diagnosing bursitis and linking it to service activities
- Range of motion measurements of the affected joint
- Imaging showing bursal inflammation or thickening
- Records of treatment including physical therapy, injections, and medications
- Documentation of the specific military activities that caused or worsened the condition
C&P Exam Tips
- Identify the specific joint and bursa affected
- Demonstrate your limited range of motion, especially with repeated movements
- Describe which service activities caused the condition such as running, kneeling, or carrying loads
- Mention any flare-ups and what triggers them
- Explain how the condition limits your current daily activities and work
How to File
File under DC 5019 for bursitis. VA will rate your bursitis based on the limitation of motion it causes in the affected joint using the range of motion criteria for that specific joint. Make sure your range of motion is measured during the exam and that the examiner notes pain with movement.
Common Mistakes
Not specifying which joint is affected in the claim Failing to report painful motion even when range of motion appears normal Not documenting the repetitive military activities that caused the condition Not mentioning how symptoms worsen with repetitive use throughout the day
Frequently Asked Questions
How does VA rate bursitis specifically?
VA rates bursitis based on the limitation of motion it causes in the affected joint. For example, shoulder bursitis is rated under the shoulder motion criteria, and knee bursitis under the knee motion criteria. If you have painful motion but still have a full range, you may still qualify for a minimum 10 percent rating.
Can I get rated for bursitis in multiple joints?
Yes, if you have bursitis in more than one joint, each affected joint can be rated separately based on its own limitation of motion. This is common for veterans who had physically demanding military jobs.