Diagnostic Code 5275 · 38 CFR §4.71a
Lower extremity shortening means one leg is shorter than the other due to bone loss, malunion, growth plate damage, or surgical procedures. When one leg is shorter, every step creates an uneven gait that stresses the hip, knee, back, and opposite leg. Veterans commonly develop leg length discrepancy from femur or tibia fractures that healed with shortening, or from surgical procedures that required bone removal. Even a small difference in leg length can cause significant problems over time.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 10% | |
| 20% | |
| 30% | |
| 40% | |
| 50% | |
| 60% |
Precise measurement of both legs using a scanogram or CT scanogram, Medical records showing the cause of the leg length discrepancy, Documentation of any shoe lifts or orthotics prescribed, Records of the compensatory problems in the hip, back, or opposite leg, Functional assessment describing gait abnormality