Muscle Group XIII VA Disability Rating
Diagnostic Code 5313 · 38 CFR §4.73
What Is It?
Muscle Group XIII consists of the posterior thigh muscles, commonly known as the hamstrings. This group includes the biceps femoris, semimembranosus, and semitendinosus. These muscles bend the knee and extend the hip, playing a critical role in walking, running, climbing, and decelerating from a sprint. They are among the most powerful muscles in the body and are frequently injured during military activities through direct trauma, strains from running and sprinting, and penetrating wounds to the back of the thigh.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 40% | Severe injury with major loss of hamstring function. |
| 30% | Moderately severe injury with significant hamstring weakness affecting walking and stair climbing. |
| 10% | Moderate injury with some loss of knee flexion power or hip extension strength. |
| 0% | Slight injury with minimal functional impact. |
Evidence Needed
- Service records documenting the posterior thigh injury
- Treatment and surgical records
- Knee flexion strength testing comparing both legs
- Thigh circumference measurements comparing both sides
- Statements about difficulty with walking, running, climbing stairs, and bending the knee
C&P Exam Tips
- Have knee flexion strength tested against resistance on both sides
- Request thigh circumference measurements to document muscle loss
- Describe difficulty with stairs, hills, and getting up from low surfaces
- Report any feelings of weakness or giving way in the back of the thigh
- Show any visible scarring or muscle deformity on the posterior thigh
How to File
File under DC 5313 with evidence of the hamstring injury and knee flexion strength testing. Thigh circumference measurements provide objective evidence of muscle mass loss.
Common Mistakes
Not getting thigh circumference compared between legs to show muscle atrophy Failing to test knee flexion strength specifically — examiners may focus only on extension Not claiming sciatic nerve damage if the nerve was injured along with the muscle Missing the knee instability claim that often results from hamstring weakness
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a hamstring strain from military training qualify?
Yes, if the strain occurred during service and resulted in permanent weakness or muscle damage. A complete hamstring tear with lasting impairment would receive a higher severity classification than a partial strain that healed with residual weakness.
Why is there no 20 percent rating for this muscle group?
The rating schedule for each muscle group is based on the functional importance of that muscle group. The jump from 10 to 30 percent reflects the significant impact that moderately severe hamstring damage has on walking and mobility due to the critical role these muscles play.