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5024
§ 4.71a Schedule of ratings—musculoskeletal system.

Tendon or tendon sheath inflammation

Inflammation or degeneration of a tendon or its surrounding sheath.

What the rating means

VA rates tenosynovitis, tendinitis, tendinosis, and tendinopathy under diagnostic code 5024. The regulation does not assign separate percentage ratings directly to this condition. Instead, it directs VA to evaluate it the same way degenerative arthritis is rated, based on limitation of motion of the affected body part. This means the rating you receive depends on how much the inflamed tendon or tendon sheath restricts movement in the joint or area it affects. The more motion is lost, the higher the rating can be. Because the rating follows the degenerative arthritis formula, the specific percentages that apply will depend on which body part is affected and how much range of motion is reduced at that location.

Evidence that helps

Because the rating turns on limitation of motion, the most useful evidence is documentation of how much movement you have lost in the affected area. Range-of-motion measurements recorded during a VA examination or by your treating provider are central. These readings show the degrees of motion available and how they compare to normal. Records of pain on motion, tenderness, swelling, or stiffness from clinical visits also help show the severity of the condition. Imaging such as ultrasound or MRI may support the diagnosis and reflect the extent of tendon involvement. Statements from you or people who know you that describe how reduced motion affects your ability to work, lift, reach, walk, or carry out daily tasks connect the clinical findings to real-world impact. Consistent treatment records over time help show that the limitation is ongoing.

Secondary conditions

Conditions that are often caused or made worse by this one. If you have any of these, they may be claimable as secondary service connection.