Bursitis

DC 5019Musculoskeletal38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5019

Inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that cushion joints. The VA rates bursitis based on limitation of motion of the affected joint, the same way degenerative arthritis is rated.

Rating Levels

You have bursitis with measurable limitation of motion of the affected joint, with occasional incapacitating flare-ups. The limitation of motion may also warrant a higher rating under the specific joint diagnostic code.

What the VA looks for

Measurable limitation of motion of the affected joint
Documentation of incapacitating flare-ups
Imaging confirming bursitis (MRI or ultrasound)
Treatment records showing ongoing management
Functional loss during flare-ups documented

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not specifying which joint is affected — the VA needs to know the exact joint to apply the correct diagnostic code.
⚠Being rated generically under DC 5019 when the specific joint limitation of motion code could yield a higher rating.
⚠Not documenting flare-ups and their frequency — flare-ups that cause incapacitating episodes support a higher rating.
⚠Not connecting bursitis to repetitive military activities such as kneeling, crawling, rucking, or overhead lifting.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Shoulder and Arm Conditions
DBQ Hip Conditions
DBQ Knee and Lower Leg Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

Understand what the VA looks for at each rating level — loading conditions…