★ Musculoskeletal
Bursitis VA Rating
38 CFR § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5019
Overview
Bursitis is inflammation of a bursa (fluid-filled sac cushioning a joint).
Common locations: shoulder (subacromial), hip (trochanteric), knee (prepatellar), elbow (olecranon).
DeLuca factors — pain, weakness, fatigability, and flare-ups — apply.
How to Establish Service Connection
- Direct: in-service repetitive use or trauma.
- Secondary to a service-connected joint condition or altered gait.
Rating Criteria
Paraphrased from 38 CFR § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5019
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 10% | Limitation of motion non-compensable but with objective findings (per DC 5003/5019). |
| Joint-specific | Use the limitation-of-motion code for the affected joint when compensable. |
See what each percentage pays in 2026 and how it combines with your current rating →
Evidence Checklist
- Imaging (ultrasound/MRI) showing bursal inflammation.
- Treatment notes including injections and PT.
- Range-of-motion measurements.
Common Secondary Conditions
Conditions frequently service-connected as secondary to Bursitis:
Frequently Asked Questions
Have a Bursitis claim or denial?
Four fields. A VA-accredited claims agent reviews it and responds within 3–5 business days. Contingent fees apply only to awarded past-due benefits on appeals — never on initial claims.
Requesting a consultation does not create representation and is not a guarantee of any outcome. Representation begins only after a written fee agreement and VA Form 21-22a are signed.
Educational content only — not legal advice and not medical advice. Rating criteria on this page are summarized in plain English from 38 CFR Part 4; consult VA.gov or the current Code of Federal Regulations for official criteria. This page provides general education about how the VA rates this condition; it is not individualized advice, does not establish a representation relationship, and should not be used to self-diagnose, self-treat, or decide a course of action without speaking to a qualified clinician and a VA-accredited representative. Outcomes depend on each veteran's individual facts, evidence, and the adjudicator's judgment; no specific rating, effective date, or other result is guaranteed. Oakridge Claims is a private business and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or operated by the US Department of Veterans Affairs.
Related Conditions
Degenerative Arthritis (Osteoarthritis)
X-ray confirmed arthritis rated under DC 5003 with limitation of motion analysis.
Shoulder Conditions
Arm motion, dominant vs non-dominant, and impingement.
Knee Conditions
Limitation of flexion/extension, instability, and meniscus ratings.
Hip Conditions
Limitation of flexion/extension and impairment of the femur.