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Evidence checklist

Costochondritis (Chest Wall Pain)

DC 5099-502138 CFR § 4.71aMusculoskeletal

Evidence strength

Mark what you already have below and your evidence strength appears here.

Target
Saved locally
01

Specialist opinion

Highest value0 of 2 collected
Orthopedic or internal medicine evaluation documenting chest wall findingsCritical

Examination documenting reproducible costochondral junction tenderness on palpation (localizable to specific ribs, usually 2nd-5th), absence of swelling (distinguishing from Tietze syndrome), and chest wall range of motion with breathing.

Private provider · independent opinion
Nexus opinion linking costochondritis to service ("at least as likely as not")Critical

A medical opinion connecting your costochondritis to military service, including repetitive upper body activities, heavy lifting, body armor wear, or a chest wall injury during service.

Private provider · independent opinion
02

Treating physician

0 of 1 collected
Cardiac workup ruling out cardiac causes of chest pain

Records of cardiac evaluation (EKG, stress test, cardiac enzymes) ruling out ischemic heart disease as the cause of chest pain, strengthening the musculoskeletal diagnosis.

Your treating provider · written request
03

Treatment records

0 of 2 collected
Imaging studies ruling out other chest pathology

Chest X-ray and/or CT ruling out pulmonary embolism, pneumothorax, rib fractures, and malignancy. Imaging in costochondritis is typically negative but documents exclusion of serious causes.

VA or private records · written request
Treatment records (NSAIDs, corticosteroid injections, physical therapy)

Records documenting anti-inflammatory treatment, costochondral junction injections, and any physical therapy for chest wall mobility.

VA or private records · written request
04

Lay statements

0 of 2 collected
Buddy statement from spouse, family, or fellow service member

A written statement from someone who can describe observable symptoms and how your condition affects daily life.

You or a witness · VA Form 21-4138 or 21-10210How to get this →
Personal statement describing symptoms and functional impact

Your own written account of how this condition affects your daily activities, work, and relationships. Describe your worst days.

You or a witness · VA Form 21-4138 or 21-10210How to get this →
05

Benefits questionnaire

0 of 1 collected
Completed DBQ Musculoskeletal ConditionsCritical

Standardized form capturing chest wall findings and functional limitations. VA rates costochondritis under the appropriate diagnostic code for the musculoskeletal system.

Provider-completed · VA DBQ formHow to get this →
06

Service records

0 of 1 collected
Service treatment records (STRs)Critical

Military medical records showing in-service treatment, complaints, or injuries related to this condition.

NPRC / milConnect · SF-180
Condition guideRating criteria and what VA looks forC&P exam prepWhat the examiner will askBuddy statement builderGuided VA Form 21-10210

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