Range of motion
| Flexion limited to (DC 5260) | Rating | Extension limited to (DC 5261) | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| 60° | 0% | 5° | 0% |
| 45° | 10% | 10° | 10% |
| 30° | 20% | 15° | 20% |
| 15° | 30% | 20° | 30% |
| 30° / 45° | 40% / 50% |
VA's General Counsel has held that limitation of flexion and limitation of extension of the same knee can be rated separately.
Other knee ratings
- Instability (DC 5257): Rated separately from motion. The criteria were revised in 2021 and consider documented instability and prescribed assistive devices or bracing.
- Meniscus conditions: Rated under their own codes (DC 5258/5259)
- Knee replacement (DC 5055): 100% for a period after surgery, then rated on residuals, with a minimum of 30%
- Painful motion: Even without limited motion, painful arthritis of a joint can support a minimum compensable rating.
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Official sources
Rating criteria summarized for general information. Read the full regulation for details. Last reviewed October 2026.