Osteoporosis

DC 5013Musculoskeletal38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5013

A condition where your bones become weak and brittle, making them more likely to break. The VA rates osteoporosis based on X-ray evidence, whether you have pathological fractures, and how the condition limits your movement.

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 5013

Rating range

10% – 60%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5013. 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

Your osteoporosis has caused multiple fractures and deformity, resulting in severe limitation of motion and significant functional impairment.

What the VA looks for

Multiple pathological fractures documented
Bone deformity from repeated fractures
Severe limitation of motion
Significant height loss from vertebral fractures
Severe functional impairment requiring assistive devices

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting a DEXA scan — bone density testing is essential for documenting osteoporosis severity and tracking progression over time.
⚠Not documenting pathological fractures — fractures caused by osteoporosis (from minimal trauma) support higher ratings. Every fracture should be on imaging.
⚠Not connecting osteoporosis to service — osteoporosis can be secondary to medications (steroids), hormonal changes, or other service-connected conditions.
⚠Not filing for each affected body part separately — if osteoporosis causes fractures in multiple areas (spine, hip, wrist), each area may warrant its own rating.
⚠Not reporting the impact on daily activities — describe difficulty standing, walking, lifting, and the fear of falling that affects your quality of life.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Bone Conditions
DBQ Back (Thoracolumbar Spine) Conditions

View evidence checklist →C&P exam prep guide →See secondary conditions →

Related Conditions

Conditions commonly associated with Osteoporosis or rated under the same body system.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

DC 5002·Musculoskeletal·Related primary

Hysterectomy Residuals

DC 7618·Gynecological/Breast·Related primary

Lumbar Strain (Low Back Pain)

DC 5237·Musculoskeletal

Cervical Strain (Neck Pain)

DC 5237·Musculoskeletal

Knee Limitation of Flexion

DC 5260·Musculoskeletal

Knee Limitation of Extension

DC 5261·Musculoskeletal

Knee Instability (Subluxation)

DC 5257·Musculoskeletal

Plantar Fasciitis (Foot Pain)

DC 5276·Musculoskeletal

Condition Rating Guides

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

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 5013

Rating range

10% – 60%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

Your osteoporosis has caused multiple fractures and deformity, resulting in severe limitation of motion and significant functional impairment.

What the VA looks for

Multiple pathological fractures documented
Bone deformity from repeated fractures
Severe limitation of motion
Significant height loss from vertebral fractures
Severe functional impairment requiring assistive devices

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting a DEXA scan — bone density testing is essential for documenting osteoporosis severity and tracking progression over time.

⚠Not documenting pathological fractures — fractures caused by osteoporosis (from minimal trauma) support higher ratings. Every fracture should be on imaging.

⚠Not connecting osteoporosis to service — osteoporosis can be secondary to medications (steroids), hormonal changes, or other service-connected conditions.

⚠Not filing for each affected body part separately — if osteoporosis causes fractures in multiple areas (spine, hip, wrist), each area may warrant its own rating.

⚠Not reporting the impact on daily activities — describe difficulty standing, walking, lifting, and the fear of falling that affects your quality of life.