Diagnostic Code 5023 · 38 CFR §4.71a
Myositis ossificans is a condition where bone tissue forms within muscle, usually after a significant bruise or trauma to the muscle. The abnormal bone formation creates a hard mass inside the soft tissue that can cause pain, restrict movement, and press on nearby nerves. The most commonly affected areas are the thigh and upper arm muscles. Veterans frequently develop this condition from direct blows to muscles during training or combat, blast injuries, or severe muscle contusions from falls and impacts during military operations.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 30% | |
| 20% | |
| 10% | |
| 0% |
Imaging showing heterotopic bone formation within muscle tissue, Medical records documenting the original muscle injury during service, Range of motion measurements of nearby joints, Documentation of pain and functional limitations, Surgical records if excision was performed