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Evidence checklist

Scars, Painful or Unstable

DC 780438 CFR § 4.118Musculoskeletal

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
Dermatology or plastic surgery evaluation documenting scar characteristicsCritical

Examination documenting scar location, size (cm squared), whether the scar is painful (with or without touch), whether it is unstable (breaks down easily, has non-healing areas), and any associated findings (hyperpigmentation, keloid, contracture).

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

A medical opinion connecting your painful or unstable scars to in-service injury, surgery, or trauma during military service.

Private provider · independent opinion
02

Treating physician

0 of 1 collected
Scar measurements (area in cm squared) and count of scarsCritical

Written documentation of each scar's dimensions and total area. VA rates painful scars at 10% each (DC 7804) and unstable scars at 10%-30% based on area (DC 7805). Multiple scars can support multiple ratings.

Your treating provider · written request
03

Treatment records

0 of 2 collected
Pain documentation (frequency, triggers, severity, impact)Critical

Medical records and personal logs documenting the nature of scar pain -- whether it is spontaneous, evoked by touch or pressure, and how it limits daily activities, sleep, or use of equipment.

VA or private records · written request
Documentation of scar breakdown or wound care episodes

Medical records showing episodes of scar breakdown, ulceration, wound care visits, and any treatment for chronic non-healing scar tissue.

VA or private records · written request
04

Lay statements

0 of 3 collected
Dated photographs of all scars (with ruler for scale)Critical

Clear photographs of all scar sites showing size, appearance, and any signs of instability (erosions, ulceration) or inflammation. Photographs on worst days are particularly valuable.

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

Standardized form capturing all scar locations, areas, pain status, stability, and functional limitations under DC 7804-7805.

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

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.