Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, Vascular Type

DC 5024Musculoskeletal38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5024

A condition where blood vessels are compressed in the space between the collarbone and first rib, causing pain, swelling, numbness, or color changes in the arm and hand. The VA rates vascular thoracic outlet syndrome based on how it limits your arm and shoulder function.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on how much it affects your ability to work and carry out daily activities. The examiner will focus on the functional limitations your condition causes, not just the diagnosis itself.

Diagnostic code

DC 5024

Rating range

10% – 40%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5024. 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 vascular thoracic outlet syndrome with severe vascular compromise causing chronic, disabling arm symptoms. You may have had surgical intervention with residual limitations.

What the VA looks for

Surgical intervention (first rib resection, scalenectomy)
Persistent post-surgical vascular compromise
Chronic severe arm symptoms limiting most activities
Recurrent thrombotic events despite treatment
Significant occupational impairment documented

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting proper vascular testing — a standard X-ray will not diagnose vascular TOS. You need a venous and arterial duplex ultrasound with positional testing, and possibly CT angiography or MR angiography.
⚠Not documenting how military duties caused or aggravated the condition — repetitive overhead work, heavy rucksack carrying, and physical training are common military causes of TOS that should be clearly linked.
⚠Not filing for both the vascular and neurological components — many veterans with TOS have both vascular and nerve compression, and the neurological component should be claimed separately under the peripheral nerve codes.
⚠Failing to report how the condition limits your work — describe specific activities you cannot do, such as lifting, reaching overhead, or carrying, since the rating depends on functional limitation.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Musculoskeletal Conditions
DBQ Peripheral Nerves

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, Vascular Type

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 5024

Rating range

10% – 40%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have vascular thoracic outlet syndrome with severe vascular compromise causing chronic, disabling arm symptoms. You may have had surgical intervention with residual limitations.

What the VA looks for

Surgical intervention (first rib resection, scalenectomy)
Persistent post-surgical vascular compromise
Chronic severe arm symptoms limiting most activities
Recurrent thrombotic events despite treatment
Significant occupational impairment documented

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting proper vascular testing — a standard X-ray will not diagnose vascular TOS. You need a venous and arterial duplex ultrasound with positional testing, and possibly CT angiography or MR angiography.

⚠Not documenting how military duties caused or aggravated the condition — repetitive overhead work, heavy rucksack carrying, and physical training are common military causes of TOS that should be clearly linked.

⚠Not filing for both the vascular and neurological components — many veterans with TOS have both vascular and nerve compression, and the neurological component should be claimed separately under the peripheral nerve codes.

⚠Failing to report how the condition limits your work — describe specific activities you cannot do, such as lifting, reaching overhead, or carrying, since the rating depends on functional limitation.