Lower Extremity Shortening VA Disability Rating
Diagnostic Code 5275 · 38 CFR §4.71a
What Is It?
Lower extremity shortening means one leg is shorter than the other due to bone loss, malunion, growth plate damage, or surgical procedures. When one leg is shorter, every step creates an uneven gait that stresses the hip, knee, back, and opposite leg. Veterans commonly develop leg length discrepancy from femur or tibia fractures that healed with shortening, or from surgical procedures that required bone removal. Even a small difference in leg length can cause significant problems over time.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 60% | Shortening by 3 and one-half to 4 inches (8.9 to 10.2 centimeters). |
| 50% | Shortening by 3 to 3 and one-half inches (7.6 to 8.9 centimeters). |
| 40% | Shortening by 2 and one-half to 3 inches (6.4 to 7.6 centimeters). |
| 30% | Shortening by 2 to 2 and one-half inches (5.1 to 6.4 centimeters). |
| 20% | Shortening by 1 and one-half to 2 inches (3.8 to 5.1 centimeters). |
| 10% | Shortening of the lower extremity by 1 and one-quarter inches (3.2 centimeters). |
Evidence Needed
- Precise measurement of both legs using a scanogram or CT scanogram
- Medical records showing the cause of the leg length discrepancy
- Documentation of any shoe lifts or orthotics prescribed
- Records of the compensatory problems in the hip, back, or opposite leg
- Functional assessment describing gait abnormality
C&P Exam Tips
- Request a scanogram for precise measurement — tape measure estimates are less accurate
- Bring records of any shoe lifts or orthotic devices you use
- Describe the compensatory pain in your hip, back, and opposite leg
- Report how the gait asymmetry affects your endurance and walking distance
- Mention any falls or instability related to the leg length difference
How to File
File under DC 5275 with precise leg length measurements. A scanogram provides the most accurate measurement. Also file secondary claims for back, hip, and opposite leg conditions caused by the gait asymmetry.
Common Mistakes
Relying on imprecise tape measure estimates instead of radiographic measurements Not meeting the minimum 1.25-inch threshold required for a rating Failing to claim secondary conditions that are almost always present with significant leg length differences Not documenting the need for and use of shoe lifts or modifications
Frequently Asked Questions
How is leg length accurately measured?
The most accurate method is a scanogram, which is a special X-ray that measures the actual bone lengths. Clinical measurement from the anterior superior iliac spine to the medial malleolus is another method. Standard tape measure estimates are least reliable. Ask your doctor for radiographic measurement to support your claim.
Can I get a rating if the difference is less than 1.25 inches?
DC 5275 requires at least 1.25 inches of shortening. If your discrepancy is less than that, you cannot be rated under this code, but you may still qualify for ratings based on the underlying condition that caused the shortening or for secondary conditions like back pain.