Chronic Venous Insufficiency

DC 7120Cardiovascular38 CFR 4.104, DC 7120

A condition where the veins in the legs cannot efficiently return blood to the heart, causing swelling, pain, skin changes, and ulcers. The VA rates chronic venous insufficiency based on the severity of symptoms including edema, skin discoloration, and ulceration.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on objective clinical measurements and test results. The examiner will use standardized tests or lab values to determine the severity of your condition rather than relying primarily on subjective symptom reports.

Diagnostic code

DC 7120

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.104, DC 7120. This guide presents a plain-language summary and is not a substitute for the full regulatory text. Always consult a VSO or VA-accredited attorney for case-specific advice.

Rating Levels

You have massive board-like edema with constant pain at rest, attributed to the effects of varicose veins.

What the VA looks for

Massive board-like edema documented on examination
Constant pain at rest
Severe functional limitation of the extremity
Ongoing wound care or vascular surgery records
Photographs showing severe edema

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting bilateral involvement — each extremity can be rated separately, so make sure the examiner evaluates and documents both legs independently.
⚠Not photographing skin changes and ulceration — visual evidence of stasis pigmentation, eczema, and ulcers strongly supports the claim.
⚠Not connecting venous insufficiency to service-related causes — prolonged standing, heavy physical duties, or injuries during service can cause or worsen venous disease.
⚠Not requesting a venous duplex ultrasound — objective imaging showing venous reflux confirms the diagnosis and supports service connection.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Artery and Vein Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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

Chronic Venous Insufficiency

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7120

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have massive board-like edema with constant pain at rest, attributed to the effects of varicose veins.

What the VA looks for

Massive board-like edema documented on examination
Constant pain at rest
Severe functional limitation of the extremity
Ongoing wound care or vascular surgery records
Photographs showing severe edema

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting bilateral involvement — each extremity can be rated separately, so make sure the examiner evaluates and documents both legs independently.

⚠Not photographing skin changes and ulceration — visual evidence of stasis pigmentation, eczema, and ulcers strongly supports the claim.

⚠Not connecting venous insufficiency to service-related causes — prolonged standing, heavy physical duties, or injuries during service can cause or worsen venous disease.

⚠Not requesting a venous duplex ultrasound — objective imaging showing venous reflux confirms the diagnosis and supports service connection.