Skip to main content

Evidence checklist

Degenerative Arthritis (Osteoarthritis)

DC 500338 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 evaluation with range of motion measurements of affected joint(s)Critical

Examination documenting range of motion in degrees for each affected joint, pain on motion, crepitus, and functional limitations. VA rates degenerative arthritis primarily on limitation of motion.

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

A medical opinion stating it is "at least as likely as not" that your osteoarthritis is connected to military service, including repetitive stress, injury, or occupational wear during service.

Private provider · independent opinion
02

Treatment records

0 of 3 collected
X-rays showing joint space narrowing, osteophytes, or subchondral sclerosisCritical

Weight-bearing radiographs demonstrating classic osteoarthritis findings such as joint space narrowing, osteophyte formation, subchondral sclerosis, or subchondral cysts. X-ray findings alone do not establish the rating — motion is key.

VA or private records · written request
Documentation of painful flare-ups (frequency, duration, functional impact)

Records or personal log documenting how often flares occur, duration, and how they limit function. Pain on motion and after repetitive use (DeLuca factors) can support higher ratings even when resting ROM appears adequate.

VA or private records · written request
Treatment records (injections, physical therapy, medications, surgery)

Records showing history of treatment including NSAIDs, corticosteroid injections, hyaluronic acid injections, physical therapy, bracing, and any surgical procedures.

VA or private records · written request
03

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 →
04

Benefits questionnaire

0 of 1 collected
Completed DBQ for affected joint (e.g., DBQ Joint Conditions)Critical

Standardized VA form capturing range of motion, pain, instability, and functional limitations for the specific joint affected by arthritis.

Provider-completed · VA DBQ formHow to get this →
05

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

What you mark here is saved in this browser, on this device only — not to an account. Changing the target rating shows different items, but never loses what you have already marked.