Osgood-Schlatter Disease Residuals

DC 5262Musculoskeletal38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5262

Residual pain and bony prominence below the kneecap from Osgood-Schlatter disease, a condition where the patellar tendon pulls on the growth plate of the shinbone. Common in veterans who experienced onset during military training. The VA rates residuals based on impairment of the tibia and fibula.

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 5262

Rating range

10% – 30%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5262. 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 Osgood-Schlatter disease with marked knee disability. The condition causes significant functional limitation and may be associated with patellar tendon problems or secondary arthritis in the knee.

What the VA looks for

Significant tibial tubercle deformity on imaging
Marked functional impairment of the knee
Secondary degenerative changes in the knee joint
Inability to run, squat, or kneel
Chronic pain requiring ongoing treatment

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting the connection between current knee problems and Osgood-Schlatter disease that began during military service — service treatment records showing onset during basic training or active duty are critical.
⚠Not getting X-rays showing the tibial tubercle prominence — imaging evidence of the bony deformity supports the residual diagnosis.
⚠Not reporting all functional limitations — explain how pain with kneeling, squatting, running, and stair climbing affects your job and daily life.
⚠Not considering secondary conditions — chronic Osgood-Schlatter can lead to patellar tendonitis, chondromalacia, or early knee arthritis that may warrant additional ratings.

Related DBQ Forms

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…

Osgood-Schlatter Disease Residuals

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 5262

Rating range

10% – 30%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

What the VA looks for

Significant tibial tubercle deformity on imaging
Marked functional impairment of the knee
Secondary degenerative changes in the knee joint
Inability to run, squat, or kneel
Chronic pain requiring ongoing treatment

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting the connection between current knee problems and Osgood-Schlatter disease that began during military service — service treatment records showing onset during basic training or active duty are critical.

⚠Not getting X-rays showing the tibial tubercle prominence — imaging evidence of the bony deformity supports the residual diagnosis.

⚠Not reporting all functional limitations — explain how pain with kneeling, squatting, running, and stair climbing affects your job and daily life.

⚠Not considering secondary conditions — chronic Osgood-Schlatter can lead to patellar tendonitis, chondromalacia, or early knee arthritis that may warrant additional ratings.