Navicular Stress Fracture Residuals

DC 5283Musculoskeletal38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5283

Residual problems from a stress fracture of the navicular bone in the foot, a small but critical bone in the arch. Navicular stress fractures are common in military service from marching and running. Residuals can include chronic foot pain, arthritis, and avascular necrosis. The VA rates these residuals based on malunion or nonunion of the tarsal or metatarsal bones.

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 5283

Rating range

10% – 30%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5283. 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 residual navicular stress fracture with severe foot disability. You have chronic severe midfoot pain, significant deformity or nonunion, and major difficulty with ambulation.

What the VA looks for

Nonunion of navicular bone confirmed on imaging
Severe midfoot pain and functional limitation
Avascular necrosis of the navicular
Significant arch collapse or foot deformity
Need for custom orthotics or surgical intervention

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting advanced imaging (CT scan or MRI) — navicular stress fractures are notoriously difficult to see on plain X-rays, and CT or MRI is needed to document the fracture and any complications like nonunion or avascular necrosis.
⚠Not documenting the in-service onset — navicular stress fractures typically occur during basic training, infantry school, or other high-impact military activities, and service treatment records are critical.
⚠Not reporting how the foot pain affects your ability to stand, walk, and run — the rating depends on the severity of foot disability, so functional limitations must be clearly documented.
⚠Not checking for avascular necrosis — the navicular bone has limited blood supply, and avascular necrosis is a serious complication that may support a higher rating.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Foot Conditions (Other)

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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

Navicular Stress Fracture Residuals

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 5283

Rating range

10% – 30%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have residual navicular stress fracture with severe foot disability. You have chronic severe midfoot pain, significant deformity or nonunion, and major difficulty with ambulation.

What the VA looks for

Nonunion of navicular bone confirmed on imaging
Severe midfoot pain and functional limitation
Avascular necrosis of the navicular
Significant arch collapse or foot deformity
Need for custom orthotics or surgical intervention

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting advanced imaging (CT scan or MRI) — navicular stress fractures are notoriously difficult to see on plain X-rays, and CT or MRI is needed to document the fracture and any complications like nonunion or avascular necrosis.

⚠Not documenting the in-service onset — navicular stress fractures typically occur during basic training, infantry school, or other high-impact military activities, and service treatment records are critical.

⚠Not reporting how the foot pain affects your ability to stand, walk, and run — the rating depends on the severity of foot disability, so functional limitations must be clearly documented.

⚠Not checking for avascular necrosis — the navicular bone has limited blood supply, and avascular necrosis is a serious complication that may support a higher rating.