Diagnostic Code 5019 · 38 CFR §4.71a
Bursitis is inflammation of the bursae, which are small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the bones, tendons, and muscles near your joints. When these sacs become inflamed, movement of the nearby joint becomes painful. The most commonly affected areas are the shoulders, elbows, hips, and knees. Bursitis is extremely common among veterans due to the repetitive physical demands of military service, including running, rucking, kneeling, overhead work, and carrying heavy equipment. VA rates bursitis based on the limitation of motion it causes in the affected joint.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 30% | |
| 20% | |
| 10% | |
| 0% |
Medical records diagnosing bursitis and linking it to service activities, Range of motion measurements of the affected joint, Imaging showing bursal inflammation or thickening, Records of treatment including physical therapy, injections, and medications, Documentation of the specific military activities that caused or worsened the condition