VA Disability Benefits for Compartment Syndrome

Veterans who were seriously injured, suffered burns, or had wounds that were hastily treated during service may be at higher risk for developing compartment syndrome. Over-exercising can also cause this condition. All of these factors make veterans prime candidates for compartment syndrome and residual complications.

The compartment syndrome VA rating is based on the severity of symptoms and their impact on daily life. It’s determined using varying diagnostic codes depending on the part of the body that is affected. We explain more below.

What is compartment syndrome?

Compartment syndrome is a medical condition that develops when pressure in the muscles builds to unhealthy levels. This pressure can damage nerve and muscle cells. 

Fascia, the thin layer of connective tissue surrounding muscle compartments, doesn’t stretch. When swelling or bleeding occurs within a compartment, the pressure on the nerves, blood vessels, and muscles increases as it has nowhere else to go. This increased pressure can reduce blood flow, depriving muscles and nerves of necessary oxygen and nutrients.

Compartment syndrome most commonly affects the anterior (front) compartment of the lower leg but can also occur in other parts of the body, such as the thighs, arms, hands, feet, and buttocks.

Chronic vs. acute compartment syndrome

It’s important to note there are two main types of compartment syndrome: acute and chronic. Acute compartment syndrome is an emergency, often caused by a severe injury. This condition requires immediate medical attention to prevent significant muscle and nerve damage. If the pressure isn’t relieved quickly, it can lead to permanent disability or tissue death. 

Chronic compartment syndrome is less severe but can still cause significant discomfort. It’s usually triggered by repetitive activities such as running or training. Unlike acute compartment syndrome, chronic cases can often be relieved with rest and aren’t considered medical emergencies. However, it can also lead to long-term pain and mobility issues if not appropriately treated.

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Compartment syndrome and veterans

Chronic compartment syndrome is a common source of leg disability among military members, but only half of service members with the condition experience complete relief from symptoms. A quarter are unable to return to full service.

According to one study, approximately 75% of acute compartment syndrome cases are caused by bone fractures. Severe bruises, burns, crush injuries, surgery, vascular injuries, infections, or tight bandaging can also cause acute compartment syndrome, among other factors. These acute episodes in service have the potential to create a lasting impact.

The intense physical demands on service members can also lead to chronic exertional compartment syndrome. This is because many of their daily activities involve repetitive motion, like marching or heavy lifting.

Both chronic and acute compartment syndrome have the potential to warrant a VA disability rating, depending on the condition’s cause and any continuing complications you may face. However, the condition must be connected to your military service to be eligible for benefits.

The compartment syndrome VA rating

The VA does not have a specific diagnostic code for compartment syndrome. Instead, it rates the condition based on your symptoms and affected areas of the body. 

Most commonly, chronic compartment syndrome is rated using a diagnostic code for muscle injuries (5300s). For example, if compartment syndrome causes significant leg muscle damage, it might be rated under the muscle injury codes. 

The VA may also use a musculoskeletal system (5200s) diagnostic code in some cases. It could be rated under the musculoskeletal system codes if it affects joint mobility, for example impacting knee movement and creating knee pain. 

Residual complications from acute episodes of compartment syndrome in service can also warrant VA disability.

Chronic pain, muscle weakness, and limited mobility can be associated with damage from acute compartment syndrome. If a veteran underwent surgery, such as a fasciotomy for the condition, they may also have significant scarring. Foot deformities like claw toes can occur when compartment syndrome affects the legs.

TDIU for compartment syndrome

Total disability based on individual unemployability (TDIU) is a benefit designed for veterans who can’t maintain “substantially gainful” employment due to his/her service-connected conditions.

Chronic compartment syndrome does not often receive a high enough rating evaluation to qualify a veteran for TDIU on its own. However, if complications from compartment syndrome contribute to difficulties working, a veteran could still be eligible for the benefit. Other service-connected conditions can be added to the rating of compartment syndrome to qualify a veteran for TDIU.

Veterans who receive TDIU benefits are compensated at the same level as those with a 100% disability rating, even though their combined rating is below 100%.

Veterans will typically be eligible for TDIU if they have:

• At least one service-connected disability rated at 60% or more disabling OR
• Two or more service-connected disabilities with at least one rated at 40% or more disabling and a combined rating of 70% or more

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How Woods and Woods can help

Woods and Woods has been fighting for people with injuries and disabilities since 1985. Our team of accredited VA disability lawyers, case managers, legal analysts, and intake specialists know the ins and outs of the VA so you don’t have to do all the hard work. Call us today for your free and confidential case evaluation. 

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