Osteopenia, osteoporosis, or history of fragility fracture
Osteopenia, osteoporosis, or history of fragility fracture
What This Code Means
Receiving DQ code D226.62 means the DoDMERB physician reviewer determined that your medical history or exam findings related to osteopenia, osteoporosis, or history of fragility fracture do not currently meet Department of Defense accession standards as defined in DoDI 6130.03.
This does not end your candidacy. Many conditions flagged under this code are waiverable. The next step is understanding the exact standard that applies to your situation and whether a waiver request is appropriate for your commissioning source.
Official Regulation Text
From DoDI 6130.03-V1, “Medical Standards for Military Service,” Change 6 (February 3, 2026)
“History of abnormal bone density (T-score below -1.0 on dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry) or history of fragility fracture.”
“History of fracture of any bone: (1) Current non-union or malunion of any fracture. (2) History of fracture within the last 6 months unless completely healed with full restoration of function. (3) History of stress fracture within the last 6 months. (4) History of fracture with retained hardware that interferes with wearing military equipment, or that would be expected to require removal.”
“History of osteoporosis (T-score of -2.5 or below on dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry).”
“History of cartilage surgery, including, but not limited to, microfracture, autologous chondrocyte implantation, osteochondral allograft or autograft transfer, within the last 12 months, or with current symptoms.”
“History of bone stress reaction or stress injury (not meeting criteria for stress fracture) requiring treatment or activity modification within the last 6 months.”
Waiver Outlook for Musculoskeletal Conditions
Key Factors for Waiver Approval
- Documentation of full rehabilitation, strength, and agility
- No recurrent dislocations or chronic pain
- Full range of motion confirmed by orthopedic evaluation
- Active participation in competitive sports post-recovery
For scoliosis cases, the key threshold is the Cobb angle measurement. Having your own imaging and specialist evaluation ready — rather than relying solely on DoDMERB's assessment — can strengthen your case.
This condition is covered in depth in The Ultimate DoDMERB Handbook by LTC Kirkland & Capt Dach — including real success scenarios, remedial exam strategies, and the complete waiver playbook. Get the handbook →
Read Our Full Guide on Musculoskeletal Conditions
Learn how DoDMERB evaluates musculoskeletal conditions, common waiver scenarios, documentation tips, and what to expect throughout the process.
Read the musculoskeletal guide