Hallux Rigidus (Stiff Big Toe)

DC 5281Musculoskeletal38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5281

Severe stiffness and limited motion of the big toe joint (first metatarsophalangeal joint), usually caused by arthritis or prior injury. The toe becomes rigid and painful, making walking and pushing off difficult. The VA rates hallux rigidus based on severity and whether it is unilateral or bilateral.

How the VA rates this condition

This condition has a fixed rating under VA regulations. Unlike most conditions, the rating does not vary based on severity. If the VA grants service connection, the rating percentage is set by regulation.

Diagnostic code

DC 5281

Rating range

10% – 10%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5281. 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 hallux rigidus (severe stiff big toe) that is unilateral (one foot). You have significant loss of motion in the big toe joint with pain on walking. This is the same rating as would be assigned for surgical removal of the great toe (DC 5171) and is the maximum schedular rating for unilateral hallux rigidus.

What the VA looks for

Loss of motion at the first metatarsophalangeal joint
Pain with push-off during gait
X-ray evidence of joint space narrowing or bone spurs
Difficulty wearing standard footwear

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not claiming bilateral hallux rigidus separately — if both big toes are affected, each should be rated individually for a 10 percent rating on each side.
⚠Not documenting the functional impact on gait — the big toe is critical for push-off during walking. If your hallux rigidus alters your gait pattern, this should be documented as it may support secondary conditions like knee or hip problems.
⚠Overlooking secondary conditions — chronic gait changes from hallux rigidus can lead to knee, hip, or lower back problems that should be claimed as secondary to the foot condition.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Foot Conditions Including Flatfoot (Pes Planus)

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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Hallux Rigidus (Stiff Big Toe)

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 5281

Rating range

10% – 10%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

What the VA looks for

Loss of motion at the first metatarsophalangeal joint
Pain with push-off during gait
X-ray evidence of joint space narrowing or bone spurs
Difficulty wearing standard footwear

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not claiming bilateral hallux rigidus separately — if both big toes are affected, each should be rated individually for a 10 percent rating on each side.

⚠Not documenting the functional impact on gait — the big toe is critical for push-off during walking. If your hallux rigidus alters your gait pattern, this should be documented as it may support secondary conditions like knee or hip problems.

⚠Overlooking secondary conditions — chronic gait changes from hallux rigidus can lead to knee, hip, or lower back problems that should be claimed as secondary to the foot condition.