This tool provides estimates for educational purposes only. We are not accredited by the Department of Veterans Affairs and do not file claims, provide legal advice, or represent veterans before the VA (38 U.S.C. § 5904). For official assistance, contact a VSO, CVSO, or VA-accredited attorney.
Knee Condition (Limitation of Motion)
- Limitation of flexion and limitation of extension can be rated separately for the same knee.
- Instability (DC 5257) can be rated in addition to limitation of motion ratings.
- DeLuca factors (pain, fatigability) may support a higher rating than ROM measurements alone.
- Each knee is rated separately, so bilateral knee conditions can result in two sets of ratings.
- Compensatory conditions in the opposite knee, hip, or back may qualify as secondary claims.
Based on VA's Schedule for Rating Disabilities (38 CFR Part 4) and related service-connection regulations. This page is a free community resource. We are not VA-accredited and do not file claims or provide legal advice (per 38 U.S.C. § 5904).
Last reviewed: April 2026 · Next review: October 2026
Maintained by: Veterans Benefits Navigator editorial team. Every citation links to a primary federal or state source. See editorial standards and our privacy posture.
Primary sources: 38 CFR Part 4 (Schedule for Rating Disabilities), VA.gov disability compensation, 38 CFR § 3.310 (secondary service connection)
Overview
Knee conditions are among the most frequently claimed musculoskeletal disabilities by veterans. These may include degenerative arthritis, chondromalacia patella, patellofemoral syndrome, meniscal tears, and general limitation of flexion or extension. Knee conditions are rated under Diagnostic Codes 5260 (limitation of flexion) and 5261 (limitation of extension).
The VA rates knee conditions based on measured limitation of motion. Flexion and extension limitations can be rated separately when both are present, as they represent distinct functional impairments. Additionally, knee instability or subluxation (DC 5257) can be rated alongside limitation of motion, potentially resulting in multiple ratings for the same knee.
Knee conditions commonly lead to secondary claims involving the opposite knee (from overcompensation), hip conditions (from altered gait), ankle conditions, and back pain. Each secondary condition can be rated independently.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 0% | Limitation of flexion: flexion limited to 60 degrees. Limitation of extension: extension limited to 5 degrees. |
| 10% | Limitation of flexion: flexion limited to 45 degrees. Limitation of extension: extension limited to 10 degrees. Instability: slight recurrent subluxation or lateral instability. |
| 20% | Limitation of flexion: flexion limited to 30 degrees. Limitation of extension: extension limited to 15 degrees. Instability: moderate recurrent subluxation or lateral instability. |
| 30% | Limitation of flexion: flexion limited to 15 degrees. Limitation of extension: extension limited to 20 degrees. Instability: severe recurrent subluxation or lateral instability. |
| 40% | Limitation of extension: extension limited to 30 degrees. |
| 50% | Limitation of extension: extension limited to 45 degrees. |
- 0%
Limitation of flexion: flexion limited to 60 degrees. Limitation of extension: extension limited to 5 degrees.
- 10%
Limitation of flexion: flexion limited to 45 degrees. Limitation of extension: extension limited to 10 degrees. Instability: slight recurrent subluxation or lateral instability.
- 20%
Limitation of flexion: flexion limited to 30 degrees. Limitation of extension: extension limited to 15 degrees. Instability: moderate recurrent subluxation or lateral instability.
- 30%
Limitation of flexion: flexion limited to 15 degrees. Limitation of extension: extension limited to 20 degrees. Instability: severe recurrent subluxation or lateral instability.
- 40%
Limitation of extension: extension limited to 30 degrees.
- 50%
Limitation of extension: extension limited to 45 degrees.
These criteria describe how a VA Compensation & Pension examiner evaluates the condition during a rating exam. They are not a self-test. For mental health conditions under 38 CFR 4.130, a diagnosis must be made by a qualified clinician under DSM-5. Actual ratings depend on the totality of evidence reviewed by the VA.
Evidence Checklist
Required
Range of motion measurements
Goniometric measurements of knee flexion and extension, including after repetitive use testing.
Instability testing
Results of joint stability testing (Lachman test, anterior/posterior drawer, varus/valgus stress tests).
Recommended
Imaging studies
X-ray or MRI documenting arthritis, meniscal damage, or other knee pathology.
Gait analysis
Observations of gait patterns, limping, or use of assistive devices such as a cane or brace.
Helpful
Buddy statements
Statements describing observed limitations, use of assistive devices, and impact on daily activities.
Flare-up documentation
Records or personal statements documenting flare-up episodes and resulting functional limitations.
Secondary Conditions
These conditions may be claimed as secondary to Knee Limitation. A nexus is the medical link between a service-connected condition and a related condition. Nexus strength indicates the level of established medical evidence supporting that connection.
Hip Arthritis
DC 5252, Typical range: 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%
Back Pain
DC 5237, Typical range: 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%
Ankle Problems
DC 5271, Typical range: 10%, 20%
Opposite Knee
DC 5260, Typical range: 10%, 20%, 30%
Explore all secondary conditions in the Secondary Condition Mapper tool.
C&P Exam Preparation
What to Expect
- The examiner will measure range of motion (flexion and extension) using a goniometer for both knees, even if only one is claimed.
- ROM will be tested in active and passive modes, and in weight-bearing and non-weight-bearing positions per Correia v. McDonald.
- Repetitive use testing (at least three repetitions) will assess whether motion decreases with repeated movement.
How to Prepare
- Consider keeping a flare-up log documenting frequency, duration, triggers, pain level, and what activities are limited during each episode.
- Think about how your knee condition affects walking, climbing stairs, squatting, kneeling, standing for extended periods, and driving.
- You may want to prepare to describe instability episodes: how often your knee gives way, locks, or buckles, and any falls that have resulted.
View the full C&P exam preparation guide for detailed tips and common mistakes.
Related DBQs
Knee and Lower Leg Conditions
Form 21-0960M-9
Search all DBQ forms in the DBQ Finder tool.
Next Steps
This information is for educational purposes only. We are not accredited by the Department of Veterans Affairs and do not file claims, provide legal advice, or represent veterans before the VA (38 U.S.C. § 5904). For official assistance, contact a VSO, CVSO, or VA-accredited attorney.