Double Vision (Diplopia / Muscle Dysfunction)
Eye muscle dysfunction causing double vision (diplopia) is rated under DC 6090 and 6092. This occurs when the eye muscles cannot properly track and focus on objects. The VA uses a specialized chart to determine the severity of muscle dysfunction and assigns a visual acuity equivalent. If double vision comes and goes or is correctable with glasses, only a 0% rating is assigned. Only one rating is given for muscle dysfunction even if both eyes are affected. If the veteran also has central visual acuity or visual field issues, the muscle dysfunction can increase those ratings rather than receiving its own separate evaluation.
VA Rating Levels
Double vision that is intermittent (comes and goes) or correctable with glasses.
Muscle dysfunction produces a visual acuity equivalent in the mild impairment range on the VA rating chart.
More significant muscle dysfunction producing a visual acuity equivalent in the moderate range. The maximum possible rating for muscle dysfunction alone (without other visual impairments) depends on the specific area of the visual field affected.
Exam Tips & Key Evidence
- →If your double vision is constant and not correctable with glasses, you are eligible for a compensable rating. Intermittent or correctable diplopia rates at 0%.
- →Muscle dysfunction combined with visual acuity issues or visual field loss uses a more complex combined system that can produce higher ratings. Make sure all three areas are evaluated.
- →Convergence insufficiency from TBI is a common cause of diplopia in veterans. If your double vision developed after a TBI, pursue it as a secondary condition.
- →Only the most affected eye's muscle dysfunction is used in the rating, even if both eyes have problems. Make sure the worse eye is thoroughly documented.
- →Request a comprehensive eye exam including muscle function testing, not just a standard visual acuity test, to capture the full extent of your impairment.
Commonly Related Conditions
38 CFR Reference
38 CFR 4.79, Diagnostic Code 6090