Shortening of Lower Extremity

DC 5275Musculoskeletal38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5275

One leg is measurably shorter than the other, usually due to a fracture that healed with shortening, surgical removal of bone, or a growth plate injury. Leg length discrepancy causes limping, back pain, and compensatory problems. The VA rates this condition based on the measured difference in leg length.

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 5275

Rating range

10% – 60%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5275. 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 a leg length discrepancy of over 4 inches (over 10.2 cm). This is the maximum rating for leg length shortening and represents extreme disability.

What the VA looks for

Measured leg length difference exceeding 4 inches
Extreme gait impairment
Dependence on assistive devices for mobility
Severe secondary musculoskeletal conditions
Major occupational and daily living limitations

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting a proper measurement — leg length must be measured by scanogram (standing X-ray) or CT scanogram, not just clinical tape measurement. Clinical measurements are less accurate and may not satisfy the VA.
⚠Not claiming secondary conditions — leg length discrepancy causes compensatory problems in the knee, hip, and lower back of both the short and long legs. These should be claimed as secondary service-connected conditions.
⚠Forgetting to document the cause — establish that the shortening resulted from an in-service injury, surgery, or service-connected condition.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Knee and Lower Leg Conditions
DBQ Hip and Thigh Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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

Shortening of Lower Extremity

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 5275

Rating range

10% – 60%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have a leg length discrepancy of over 4 inches (over 10.2 cm). This is the maximum rating for leg length shortening and represents extreme disability.

What the VA looks for

Measured leg length difference exceeding 4 inches
Extreme gait impairment
Dependence on assistive devices for mobility
Severe secondary musculoskeletal conditions
Major occupational and daily living limitations

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting a proper measurement — leg length must be measured by scanogram (standing X-ray) or CT scanogram, not just clinical tape measurement. Clinical measurements are less accurate and may not satisfy the VA.

⚠Not claiming secondary conditions — leg length discrepancy causes compensatory problems in the knee, hip, and lower back of both the short and long legs. These should be claimed as secondary service-connected conditions.

⚠Forgetting to document the cause — establish that the shortening resulted from an in-service injury, surgery, or service-connected condition.