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C&P Exam Prep: Hallux Valgus (Bunion)
DBQ Overview
Interview + Physical- Form Name
- Foot_Conditions_Including_Flatfoot_Pes_Planus
- Form Code
- Foot_Conditions_Including_Flatfoot_Pes_Planus
- Page Count
- 16
- Examiner Type
- Physician or Physician Assistant
- Estimated Duration
- 30-45 minutes
- Exam Format
- Interview + Physical
What to Expect During Your Exam
Exam Overview
To evaluate the nature, severity, and functional impact of hallux valgus (bunion) deformity of one or both great toes for VA disability rating purposes under Diagnostic Code 5280. The examiner will document deformity, surgical history, pain, tenderness, and functional loss to support a rating of 0% (no compensable symptoms), 10% (mild/moderate symptoms or post-surgical), or 10% (severe, equivalent to amputation of great toe).
What the examiner evaluates:
- Diagnosis confirmation of hallux valgus and affected side(s)
- Surgical history including resection of metatarsal head, tarsal osteotomy, or other procedures
- Severity classification: mild/moderate symptoms vs. severe symptoms equivalent to amputation of great toe
- Active and passive range of motion of the great toe (dorsiflexion and plantarflexion)
- Weight-bearing vs. non-weight-bearing range of motion differences
- Pain on active motion, passive motion, and at rest
- Tenderness under metatarsal heads (definite vs. marked)
- Callosities and their pain level
- Toe deformity (great toe dorsiflexed, hammer toes, all toes tending to dorsiflexion)
- Associated conditions: bursitis, arthritis (degenerative, post-traumatic), metatarsalgia, plantar fasciitis
- Functional loss factors: pain, fatigue, weakness, incoordination, lack of endurance
- Flare-ups: frequency, duration, precipitating factors, severity
- Assistive devices used (cane, brace, walker, crutches, wheelchair)
- Interference with standing, walking, sitting
- Instability of station, disturbance of locomotion, atrophy of disuse
- Impact on occupational and daily activities
Exam will include both a history interview and a physical examination. The examiner will observe your gait, inspect both feet, perform range of motion testing in both weight-bearing and non-weight-bearing positions, and palpate for tenderness. Wear comfortable footwear that is easy to remove. If you have had surgery on the bunion, bring documentation of the procedure and date. The examiner is required to document your reported symptoms, flare-up history, and the functional impact of the condition on your daily life.
Typical duration: 30-45 minutes
Great Toe Dorsiflexion (Extension) Range of Motion
The upward bending movement of the great toe at the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint. Normal is approximately 65-70 degrees of dorsiflexion.
What to expect:
The examiner will ask you to extend your big toe upward as far as possible (active motion), then will gently assist the movement to assess passive motion. This will be performed both sitting (non-weight-bearing) and standing (weight-bearing). You will be asked to report pain throughout each movement.
Key thresholds:
- Great toe dorsiflexed/fixed (rigid) — Supports severe rating or hallux rigidus equivalent (DC 5281 rated as severe hallux valgus); contributes to 10% rating for severe symptoms equivalent to amputation
- Marked limitation of dorsiflexion — Supports moderate-to-severe functional limitation; documented under functional loss fields
- Pain at end range or throughout arc — Constitutes additional functional loss per DeLuca; examiner must document how pain limits ROM
Tips:
- Move only as far as pain allows - do not push through sharp pain to appear cooperative
- Tell the examiner at exactly what point in the arc of motion pain begins
- Report whether pain is different when standing versus sitting
- If your toe is essentially fixed or fused, say so clearly: 'My toe barely moves and causes severe pain when I try to move it'
- Ask for rest between repetitions if fatigue or increased pain occurs with repeated testing (this is the DeLuca repetitive use standard)
Pain considerations: Per DeLuca v. Brown, the examiner must document how pain, fatigue, weakness, and incoordination affect range of motion during flare-ups and with repetitive use. Clearly state: 'When I walk for more than [X] minutes, the pain in my great toe increases significantly and my movement decreases even further.' This triggers the examiner's obligation to address functional loss beyond what is measured in a single static test.
Great Toe Plantarflexion (Flexion) Range of Motion
The downward bending movement of the great toe. Normal is approximately 45 degrees.
What to expect:
The examiner will ask you to curl your big toe downward. Pain during this motion should be reported immediately.
Key thresholds:
- Painful or limited plantarflexion — Contributes to overall functional loss documentation; supports finding of pain on active motion
- Crepitus during motion — May suggest associated degenerative arthritis; supports arthritis diagnosis entries on DBQ
Tips:
- Report any grinding, clicking, or crepitus during movement
- Note if plantarflexion is more or less painful than dorsiflexion
- Describe whether the pain is sharp, burning, aching, or throbbing
Pain considerations: Even if plantarflexion range appears near normal on measurement, report any pain that occurs during or after the movement, as pain during motion constitutes functional loss under 38 CFR 4.40 and 4.45.
Weight-Bearing vs. Non-Weight-Bearing Assessment
Differences in foot deformity, pain, and range of motion when standing under full body weight versus when seated or lying down. The DBQ specifically requires both weight-bearing and non-weight-bearing examinations.
What to expect:
The examiner will assess your foot while you are seated (non-weight-bearing) and while you are standing (weight-bearing). Differences in deformity, pain level, and range of motion must be documented per Correia v. McDonald requirements.
Key thresholds:
- Increased pain or deformity with weight-bearing — Critical: demonstrates real-world functional impact during activities of daily living; supports higher severity rating
- Inability to bear full weight due to bunion pain — Supports severe functional limitation finding; may indicate function equivalent to amputation
Tips:
- Tell the examiner if your pain is significantly worse when you stand or walk compared to when you are resting
- Describe any abnormal gait pattern you have developed to avoid pressure on the bunion
- Mention if you walk on the outer edge of your foot or shift weight to avoid bunion contact
- Report if standing for more than a few minutes dramatically increases your pain level
Pain considerations: The difference between sitting and standing pain is legally significant. A statement such as 'My pain is a 3/10 while sitting but escalates to an 8/10 after walking one block' directly supports a more severe functional loss finding.
Tenderness Palpation (Metatarsal Head and Bunion Site)
The examiner will press on the metatarsal head, bunion prominence, and surrounding tissue to assess the degree of tenderness. The DBQ distinguishes between 'definite tenderness' and 'marked tenderness' under metatarsal heads, and documents very painful callosities.
What to expect:
The examiner will use their fingers to press on various points of your forefoot, the bunion itself, the metatarsal heads, and any callosities. You should verbally report your pain response - do not simply wince silently.
Key thresholds:
- Marked tenderness under metatarsal heads — Supports higher severity classification; documented in DBQ section 9B as 'marked tenderness'
- Very painful callosities — Specific DBQ criterion (field 594); contributes to overall severity rating and supports functional limitation
- Definite tenderness at bunion prominence — Establishes baseline pain pathology; supports objective finding of painful condition
Tips:
- Say 'that is very tender' or 'that hurts significantly' when the examiner presses on painful areas - do not minimize
- If callosities are present, point them out proactively and describe how painful they are when walking
- Describe whether the tenderness is constant or only with pressure
- Report if the area is tender even with light touch or the weight of a bedsheet
Pain considerations: Marked tenderness, as opposed to merely definite tenderness, carries specific significance in the DBQ rating framework. Use words like 'very painful,' 'severe tenderness,' or 'causes me to flinch or avoid pressure' to accurately convey the degree of tenderness.
Rating Criteria Breakdown
| Rating % | Criteria | Key Symptoms |
|---|---|---|
| 10% | The 10% rating applies in three distinct situations under DC 5280: (1) Operated hallux valgus with resection of metatarsal head; (2) Severe hallux valgus with symptoms equivalent to amputation of the great toe; (3) Under DC 5281 (hallux rigidus, severe), rated as severe hallux valgus - all three pathways lead to 10%. Mild or moderate symptoms alone without surgery or severity equivalent to amputation are not explicitly listed as compensable but should be documented for potential future increases. |
CFR: 'Operated with resection of metatarsal head: 10%' - If you have had this surgery, the 10% rating is warranted regardless of current symptoms. 'Severe, if equivalent to amputation of great toe: 10%' - Severity must approach the functional loss associated with losing the great toe entirely, including severe pain, inability to ambulate normally, and major functional limitation. |
| 0% | No compensable disability. Hallux valgus present but without symptoms that meet the criteria for a 10% rating. Mild deformity without functional limitation, pain, or surgical history. |
CFR: DC 5280 does not list a 0% rating explicitly; however, claims that do not meet the threshold for mild/moderate symptoms and have no surgical history would receive a noncompensable evaluation. The examiner must still document all symptoms accurately. |
10% The 10% rating applies in three distinct situations under DC ...
The 10% rating applies in three distinct situations under DC 5280: (1) Operated hallux valgus with resection of metatarsal head; (2) Severe hallux valgus with symptoms equivalent to amputation of the great toe; (3) Under DC 5281 (hallux rigidus, severe), rated as severe hallux valgus - all three pathways lead to 10%. Mild or moderate symptoms alone without surgery or severity equivalent to amputation are not explicitly listed as compensable but should be documented for potential future increases.
Key Symptoms
- Prior surgery with resection of metatarsal head OR tarsal/metatarsal osteotomy
- Severe symptoms with functional limitation equivalent to amputation of great toe
- Great toe fixed in dorsiflexed position (hallux rigidus equivalent)
- Marked tenderness under metatarsal heads
- Very painful callosities
- Severe pain on weight-bearing interfering with ambulation
- Marked limitation of dorsiflexion approaching rigidity
- Inability to wear standard footwear without severe pain
- Significant gait disturbance or instability
CFR: 'Operated with resection of metatarsal head: 10%' - If you have had this surgery, the 10% rating is warranted regardless of current symptoms. 'Severe, if equivalent to amputation of great toe: 10%' - Severity must approach the functional loss associated with losing the great toe entirely, including severe pain, inability to ambulate normally, and major functional limitation.
0% No compensable disability. Hallux valgus present but without ...
No compensable disability. Hallux valgus present but without symptoms that meet the criteria for a 10% rating. Mild deformity without functional limitation, pain, or surgical history.
Key Symptoms
- Visible bunion deformity without significant pain
- No interference with walking or standing
- No surgical history
- Mild or no tenderness on palpation
CFR: DC 5280 does not list a 0% rating explicitly; however, claims that do not meet the threshold for mild/moderate symptoms and have no surgical history would receive a noncompensable evaluation. The examiner must still document all symptoms accurately.
How to Describe Your Symptoms
Pain - Constant and Activity-Related
How to describe:
Describe your pain in terms of location (bunion prominence, under the ball of the foot, entire forefoot), character (sharp, burning, aching, throbbing), intensity on a 0-10 scale both at rest and with activity, and what activities trigger or worsen the pain. Be specific about distance you can walk before pain becomes severe.
Worst-day example:
“On my worst days, I cannot put on a normal shoe because the pressure on my bunion is excruciating - even a light touch causes sharp, burning pain rated 9/10. I can walk less than half a block before the pain forces me to stop. I have to wear open-toed shoes or go barefoot, and even then the pain from the bunion and the ball of my foot makes every step miserable. The pain wakes me up at night if I roll over and my foot makes contact with the bedding.”
What the examiner listens for:
Objective correlation between reported pain and physical findings on palpation; consistency between history of pain and observed gait or behavior during examination; documentation of pain location, quality, and activities that trigger it for the functional loss narrative section of the DBQ.
Understatements to avoid:
Saying 'it bothers me sometimes' or 'I manage it' - instead say 'it limits my ability to walk, stand, and perform daily activities.' Do not say 'the pain is not that bad today' even if you have a relatively good day at the exam - describe your typical worst-day experience.
Functional Loss - Walking, Standing, and Daily Activities
How to describe:
Quantify your limitations precisely: how far you can walk (blocks, steps, minutes), how long you can stand, whether you can climb stairs, whether you can perform your job duties, and which household activities you can no longer do. Connect each limitation directly to the bunion.
Worst-day example:
“Due to my bunion, I can stand for no more than 10-15 minutes before the pain becomes severe enough that I must sit down. I can walk approximately one block before I must stop and rest. I can no longer walk on uneven surfaces, climb stairs without gripping the railing to shift weight off my forefoot, or participate in recreational activities like hiking that I used to do. At work, I have to request accommodations to avoid prolonged standing. I have stopped grocery shopping alone because I cannot stand long enough to complete the trip.”
What the examiner listens for:
Specific, measurable functional limitations; how limitations affect employment, self-care, and recreation; consistency with observed gait and physical findings. The examiner will document this in the functional loss section (Section 14) of the DBQ.
Understatements to avoid:
Vague statements like 'it slows me down' - instead provide specific examples. Do not perform tasks during the exam (like walking quickly in the hallway) that contradict your reported limitations.
Flare-Ups
How to describe:
Describe the frequency (daily, weekly, monthly), duration (hours, days), triggers (prolonged walking, standing, cold weather, certain shoes), and severity of flare-ups. Describe what the flare-up looks like - swelling, redness, increased pain, inability to bear weight.
Worst-day example:
“I experience severe flare-ups approximately 3-4 times per week. During a flare-up, the bunion becomes visibly swollen and red, and the pain escalates to 9-10/10 for several hours. During these episodes, I cannot walk at all and must elevate my foot and apply ice. The flare-ups are triggered by any extended walking beyond 15-20 minutes, wearing anything other than wide, accommodating footwear, and cold, damp weather. These episodes can last 4-6 hours and sometimes into the next day.”
What the examiner listens for:
The examiner must document flare-up history per M21-1 requirements. The DBQ has a dedicated flare-up field (field 357). A well-described flare-up history triggers the DeLuca analysis, which can result in a higher effective functional loss rating than what is measured during the static exam.
Understatements to avoid:
Saying 'I don't really have flare-ups' when you do have periods of worsening - any episode of increased pain, swelling, or limitation beyond your baseline counts as a flare-up and must be reported.
Fatigue and Lack of Endurance (DeLuca Factor)
How to describe:
Describe how your foot fatigues with use, meaning that after extended activity, your pain and limitation are significantly worse than at rest or at the start of activity. This is a legally significant DeLuca factor that the examiner must address.
Worst-day example:
“When I first stand up in the morning, my pain is roughly a 5/10. After walking for 10 minutes, my pain increases to 8/10 and my gait becomes noticeably impaired because I am shifting weight to avoid pressure on the bunion. After 20-30 minutes of walking, the pain is so severe I must stop entirely. My foot also fatigues when I am on my feet repeatedly throughout the day - by the afternoon, I am significantly more impaired than in the morning.”
What the examiner listens for:
Documentation that functional limitation increases with use - this is the Mitchell v. Shinseki opinion requirement. The examiner must note whether repetitive use of the joint causes a greater degree of limitation than a single static measurement would suggest.
Understatements to avoid:
Do not say 'I feel fine after resting' without also saying 'but the limitation returns as soon as I resume activity, and it takes longer to recover each time.' The full picture must include both the limitation and its pattern over the course of a day.
Gait Disturbance and Instability
How to describe:
Describe any changes to the way you walk as a result of the bunion. Antalgic gait (limping to avoid pain), toe-out or toe-in gait, walking on the outer edge of the foot, and avoidance of heel-to-toe weight transfer are all significant findings.
Worst-day example:
“I have developed a significant limp that is worse when I walk more than a few steps. I walk on the outer edge of my foot to avoid pressure on the bunion, which has caused secondary pain in my knee and hip. My gait is unsteady on uneven surfaces because I cannot flex my great toe normally to push off when walking. I have stumbled and nearly fallen on multiple occasions because of the instability.”
What the examiner listens for:
Observable gait abnormality during the exam; history of instability, falls, or near-falls; documentation in the disturbance of locomotion and instability of station fields of the DBQ.
Understatements to avoid:
Walking normally or quickly through the clinic when your gait is typically impaired - walk at your actual, pain-limited pace during the examination and any observed gait assessment.
Surgical History and Post-Operative Residuals
How to describe:
If you have had surgery for the bunion (bunionectomy, resection of metatarsal head, osteotomy), describe the procedure, date, the foot operated on, and all residual symptoms following surgery. Resection of metatarsal head alone is sufficient for a 10% rating under DC 5280 regardless of current symptom level.
Worst-day example:
“I underwent resection of the metatarsal head of my right great toe on [date] at [facility]. Despite the surgery, I continue to experience persistent pain at the surgical site rated 6/10 on average, swelling that worsens with activity, and reduced range of motion in the great toe. The surgery did not resolve my functional limitations; I still cannot walk more than one block without severe pain and I continue to require wide, accommodating footwear.”
What the examiner listens for:
Type of procedure, operative side, date of surgery, and current residual symptoms. The DBQ includes specific fields for resection of metatarsal head, tarsal osteotomy, and other surgical procedures. Documenting surgery alone triggers the 10% rating threshold.
Understatements to avoid:
Failing to mention surgical history, or saying 'the surgery fixed it' - even if surgery improved the condition, residual symptoms and the surgery itself are ratable findings that must be accurately documented.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Describing symptoms only at their best, not at their worst or typical
The VA rates your condition based on its average and worst manifestations, not your best days. Describing only minimal symptoms at a good-moment exam severely undervalues your disability.
Instead: Per M21-1 guidance, describe your symptoms as they typically are and at their worst. Use the phrase 'on a typical day' and 'on my worst days' to give the examiner the full picture. Bring a symptom diary if possible.
Impact: Can result in noncompensable evaluation when a 10% rating is warranted
Failing to report flare-up history
The DeLuca and Mitchell legal requirements obligate the examiner to document functional loss during flare-ups and with repetitive use. If you do not report flare-ups, the examiner cannot fulfill this legal obligation, and the resulting DBQ may be insufficient.
Instead: Proactively describe your flare-ups in detail: frequency, duration, triggers, symptoms during a flare-up, and recovery time. State 'I have flare-ups approximately [X] times per [week/month].'
Impact: Can prevent finding of severity equivalent to amputation of great toe for 10% rating
Not mentioning surgery or not having documentation of the surgery
Resection of metatarsal head is a standalone criterion for a 10% rating under DC 5280. Without documentation, the examiner may not be aware of the surgical history and may not check the appropriate DBQ fields.
Instead: Bring all surgical records, operative reports, and post-operative notes to the examination. Explicitly state: 'I had a resection of the metatarsal head performed on [date] at [facility].' Ensure this is recorded in the DBQ.
Impact: 10% rating may be missed entirely without documented surgical history
Performing at above your actual functional capacity during the examination
If you walk quickly, stand comfortably, or remove your shoes without difficulty during the exam, the examiner documents what they observe. Inconsistency between reported limitations and observed behavior undermines your credibility and your claim.
Instead: Walk at your true, pain-limited pace. If removing your shoes causes pain or difficulty, say so. Sit down when you need to. Your behavior during the entire appointment - in the waiting room, hallway, and exam room - may be observed.
Impact: All rating levels; especially critical for severe/10% rating
Failing to describe secondary effects on other joints and daily function
The bunion's functional impact on gait, knee, hip, and lower back from compensatory movement; inability to perform job duties; and loss of recreational activities all support a more severe rating and are documented in multiple DBQ functional loss fields.
Instead: Describe the chain of functional consequences: 'Because of the pain in my great toe, I walk on the outer edge of my foot, which has caused secondary knee and hip pain. I can no longer perform [specific job duty] or [recreational activity] because of my bunion.'
Impact: Impacts severity determination for 10% rating and future claims for secondary conditions
Not reporting assistive devices or footwear modifications
Use of a cane, brace, orthotics, wide shoes, open-toed shoes, or custom footwear due to bunion pain is documented in the DBQ assistive device section and supports objective evidence of functional limitation.
Instead: Tell the examiner every adaptive measure you use: 'I can only wear wide-width shoes,' 'I use orthotics prescribed by my podiatrist,' 'I use a cane on bad days.' Bring these devices to the examination.
Impact: Supports severity equivalent to amputation determination for 10% rating
Not requesting the examiner address DeLuca factors
Examiners are legally required to address pain, fatigue, weakness, and incoordination during flare-ups and with repetitive use. If you do not report these factors, and the examiner does not ask, the DBQ may be legally insufficient and returned for a new examination - delaying your claim.
Instead: If the examiner only performs a single range of motion test and does not ask about repetitive use or flare-ups, you can politely say: 'I also experience increased limitation after prolonged use - should I describe that?' This prompts the examiner to fulfill their DeLuca obligation.
Impact: All rating levels; critical for severity finding
Prep Checklist
Before Your Exam
Day Of
During the Exam
After the Exam
Your Rights During a C&P Exam
- You have the right to a thorough, in-person Compensation and Pension examination conducted by a qualified healthcare provider (physician or physician assistant) unless circumstances prevent it.
- You have the right to have the examiner review your claims file (c-file) and all relevant medical records prior to completing the DBQ. Per Sharp v. Shulkin, claims folder review is required for musculoskeletal examinations.
- You have the right to have the examiner address DeLuca factors - specifically, how pain, fatigue, weakness, and incoordination affect your range of motion during flare-ups and with repetitive use over time. Failure to address these factors renders the exam legally insufficient.
- You have the right to have range of motion tested under both weight-bearing and non-weight-bearing conditions per Correia v. McDonald, 28 Vet.App. 158 (2016). Both active and passive ROM must be assessed.
- You have the right to request a new examination if the original examination is inadequate, incomplete, or fails to address legally required elements (DeLuca factors, Correia ROM requirements, flare-up history).
- In most states and VA facilities, you have the right to record your C&P examination. Check your state's laws and your VA facility's policy before the examination and inform the examiner at the start of the appointment if you intend to record.
- You have the right to bring a VSO representative, accredited claims agent, attorney, or a personal representative to accompany you to the examination as an observer.
- You have the right to submit a private Independent Medical Examination (IME) or nexus letter from your own treating physician if the VA examination is inadequate or does not support your claim.
- You have the right to request a copy of the completed DBQ through your VSO, your eBenefits account, or via a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request after the examination is completed.
- You have the right to challenge an insufficient exam by submitting a notice of disagreement, requesting a higher-level review, or submitting additional evidence including private medical opinions.
- You have the right to have your condition rated based on your worst-day symptom profile, not a snapshot of a single good day. The benefit of the doubt standard under 38 CFR 3.102 requires VA to resolve reasonable doubt in your favor.
- You have the right to separate ratings for bilateral conditions - if both feet are affected by hallux valgus, each foot can be rated separately under DC 5280, potentially resulting in two separate 10% ratings subject to the bilateral factor under 38 CFR 3.383.
Related Conditions
- Hallux Rigidus DC 5281 (hallux rigidus, unilateral, severe) is rated as hallux valgus severe under DC 5280. If your bunion has progressed to near complete stiffness (rigidity) of the great toe, DC 5281 may apply and is rated at the same 10% level as severe hallux valgus.
- Metatarsalgia Metatarsalgia (pain under the ball of the foot at the metatarsal heads) frequently develops secondary to hallux valgus as weight bearing mechanics shift due to bunion deformity. It is a listed associated condition on the foot DBQ and may be separately rated or documented as an associated finding.
- Hammer Toes Hallux valgus deformity commonly causes secondary displacement of the lesser toes, resulting in hammer toe deformity. Hammer toes may be separately ratable and are documented on the same Foot Conditions DBQ. The DBQ notes these should not be combined with claw foot ratings.
- Flat Foot (Pes Planus) Flat foot and hallux valgus frequently co exist and may be rated separately or together on the same DBQ. Pes planus can contribute to or aggravate hallux valgus deformity and vice versa. Each condition is rated under its own diagnostic code.
- Plantar Fasciitis Gait alterations secondary to hallux valgus (particularly walking on the outer edge of the foot) can cause or aggravate plantar fasciitis. This is a listed associated condition on the Foot Conditions DBQ and may support a secondary service connection claim.
- Degenerative Arthritis of the Great Toe (MTP Joint) Chronic hallux valgus commonly causes post traumatic or degenerative arthritis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint. This may be rated separately under DC 5003 (degenerative arthritis) or DC 5010 (post traumatic arthritis) if X ray evidence confirms arthritic changes.
- Bursitis (First MTP Joint) Bursal sac inflammation at the bunion prominence (adventitious bursa over the medial aspect of the first MTP joint) is a direct consequence of hallux valgus. Documented bursitis contributes to the overall severity assessment and is noted on the DBQ.
- Secondary Knee Osteoarthritis Altered gait mechanics from hallux valgus can cause increased stress on the ipsilateral knee, potentially aggravating or causing degenerative knee conditions. Veterans may be eligible for secondary service connection for knee conditions caused or worsened by the service connected bunion.
- Tarsal or Metatarsal Bone Malunion/Nonunion DC 5283 (tarsal or metatarsal bones, malunion or nonunion) applies to fracture residuals and is rated separately from hallux valgus. If prior metatarsal fractures contributed to hallux valgus development, or if surgery resulted in malunion, DC 5283 ratings (10 30%) may apply alongside or instead of DC 5280.
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This C&P exam preparation guide is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal, medical, or claims advice. Always consult with a qualified Veterans Service Organization (VSO) representative or VA-accredited attorney for guidance specific to your claim. Never exaggerate, minimize, or fabricate symptoms during a C&P examination.