Meniscal Tear / Semilunar Cartilage
DC 5258-5259 §4.71a Musculoskeletal — Lower Extremity ICD-10: M23.30 Direct
VA rating criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 20% | DC 5258: Dislocated, with frequent episodes of 'locking,' pain, and effusion into the joint |
| 10% | DC 5259: Removal of semilunar cartilage, symptomatic |
Filing this claim
This is typically filed as a direct service connection claim. You need a current diagnosis, evidence of in-service event or exposure, and a nexus letter linking them. Use the letter generators to draft your nexus letter and Statement in Support of Claim.
Step by step
- File an Intent to File (Form 21-0966) to lock your effective date.
- Confirm you have a current medical diagnosis in a medical record.
- Get a nexus letter — magic phrase: "at least as likely as not."
- Write a Statement in Support of Claim (21-4138).
- If applicable, gather buddy statements (21-10210).
- File the formal 21-526EZ.
Source: 38 CFR §4.71a. For exact regulatory language, consult eCFR Title 38. This is general education — for your specific case, consult a VA-accredited representative.