Myositis
38 CFR § 4.71a — Musculoskeletal system
Muscle inflammation is evaluated under DC 5021 per the schedule criteria (including polymyositis / dermatomyositis patterns when applicable).
Diagnostic code
5021
DC 5021 applies to myositis—inflammatory disease of muscle. Ratings reflect weakness, functional limitation, and systemic features as described in the regulation, often with rheumatology or neurology documentation.
Pulmonary or cardiac involvement from the same disease process may be evaluated under other diagnostic codes if separately supported.
Official VA rating criteria — bursitis, tendinitis, myositis, heterotopic ossification (regional)
These codes are often rated on functional loss (limitation of motion, weakness, pain) under § 4.71a, sometimes by analogy to a nearby joint’s motion codes. The rater selects criteria that match the evidence.
| Rating | VA criteria (typical themes) | Key evidence at this level |
|---|---|---|
| 20–30% | Marked limitation of motion, recurrent effusion, or severe episodes with significant functional loss as described for the analogous joint or diagnostic instructions. | Repeated injections, PT notes, measurable ROM loss, imaging if applicable. |
| 10–20% | Moderate limitation, pain on motion, or documented recurrent symptoms meeting intermediate schedular language. | Office visits, ROM, functional complaints tied to examination. |
| 10% | Mild limitation and/or painful motion (minimum compensable tiers when schedule allows painful-motion minimums). | Exam documenting painful motion; § 4.59 may be relevant for painful joint motion. |
| 0% | Symptoms below compensable thresholds or non-chronic presentation per the schedule. | Isolated acute episode without chronic residual disability. |
Source: 38 CFR § 4.71a — DCs 5019, 5021, 5023, 5024 (read the exact paragraph for your DC).
Service connection — common paths
Direct service connection
In-service injury or repetitive stress with a current diagnosis may support direct service connection when the evidence links the condition to service.
Secondary service connection
May be argued secondary to a service-connected joint or spine condition when medical evidence supports aggravation or causation beyond normal progression.
Secondary conditions sometimes pursued with Myositis
Soft-tissue and regional musculoskeletal conditions often interact with nearby joints and with mental health. Secondary claims still require appropriate medical evidence.
If bursitis/tendinitis primarily affects one region, separate joint ratings may be argued if pyramiding rules allow.
Chronic pain and activity limits are common contexts for mental-health claims.
e.g. carpal tunnel if wrist-adjacent inflammation is documented—fact-specific.
“Strong” / “Moderate” / “Developing” reflect how often these theories appear in educational materials—not a prediction of approval. Use accredited help for your specific file.
Already service-connected for something else?
These conditions are sometimes claimed as secondary to overuse or altered mechanics from another service-connected joint or spine disability.
When providers link regional strain to gait or posture changes from SC spine disability.
When the record ties repetitive strain to a SC disability affecting the other arm or gait.
Last verified against 38 CFR (eCFR Part 4):
Rating criteria (38 CFR Part 4)
Diagnostic code 5021 — Myositis — is listed under 38 CFR § 4.71a in 38 CFR Part 4. The paragraphs below summarize how this code is used; the official schedule text controls exact percentages, formulas, and notes.
Schedule summary (educational, not a substitute for the regulation): Use 38 CFR § 4.71a and locate DC 5021 for the full rating table and notes.
Exact rating criteria: Open Part 4 in the eCFR (link under “Official source” below). Locate your diagnostic code number (5021) in the correct body-system subpart, or use Find in Page (Ctrl+F / ⌘F) for “5021”. Copy the verbatim rating table, including any parenthetical notes, exceptions, and cross-references, for the version of Part 4 that applies to your effective date.
Effective dates & which schedule version applies
Which diagnostic code, percentage, and effective date apply depends on the facts of your claim and the version of the rating schedule in force for the period being decided. Generally, VA applies the schedule in effect at the specified time under 38 U.S.C. § 5110 and implementing rules, subject to exceptions (e.g., protected ratings, liberalizing law changes—see regulation and VA manual policy as applicable).
For older claims, the **current** eCFR may not match the text that applied years ago. If your decision references a prior percentage or code, compare against the Part 4 text **as of** your claim’s relevant dates; historical Federal Register / CFR snapshots may be needed for precise comparison.
The “Last verified” date on this page is when we last checked this educational summary against the electronic CFR—not the date of any VA policy or your personal claim decision.
Notes for your claim
Evidence: Show that your diagnosis and severity match the factors the schedule names for DC 5021 (e.g., measurements, frequency, treatment, functional loss), with medical and lay evidence as appropriate.
C&P exams: Results should reflect the schedule’s requirements (correct joints measured, correct formulas). If the exam omits required findings, consider submitting records or requesting clarification.
If you disagree with the DC, percentage, or effective date, review the Part 4 text for your period and consider a supplemental claim or appeal with a VA-accredited representative.
This site does not provide legal advice.
Official source
38 CFR Part 4 (eCFR) — locate diagnostic code 5021 in the subpart for your body system (use Find in Page if needed).
Discuss how your evidence fits DC 5021 with a VA-accredited representative. Quick search: DC code lookup.
⚠️ Important Disclaimer
This page provides general educational information only based on public VA regulations (38 CFR) and va.gov resources. It is not legal, medical, or claims assistance. Ratings and service connections are decided case-by-case by the VA based on the individual veteran’s evidence. We do not prepare claims, generate documents, or provide personalized advice. Always consult a VA-accredited Veterans Service Organization (VSO), attorney, or your physician for help with your specific situation. Verify the latest rules on va.gov.