DC 5207Musculoskeletal System38 CFR § 4.71aLast verified: APR 22, 2026

Forearm, limitation of extension of

Forearm, limitation of extension of is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5207, from 10% to 50% based on the frequency and functional severity of symptoms. The maximum 50% rating requires: Extension limited to 110°; 40. Most claims establish the 10% or 20% rating before reaching the top tier.

What are the VA rating criteria for Forearm, limitation of extension of?

10%Disability Rating

Extension limited to 60°; 10

Note: Normal extension = 0 degrees (full extension). Flexion contracture at 45 degrees.

20%Disability Rating

Extension limited to 90°; 30

30%Disability Rating

Extension limited to 100°; 40

40%Disability Rating

Extension limited to 110°; 50

50%Disability Rating

Extension limited to 110°; 40

Extension limited to 100°; 40
— 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5207 (30% tier)

Common Questions About Forearm, limitation of extension of VA Ratings

What is the VA rating range for Forearm, limitation of extension of?

The VA rates Forearm, limitation of extension of under Diagnostic Code 5207 at 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%. The minimum 10% rating requires: Extension limited to 60°; 10. The maximum 50% rating requires: Extension limited to 110°; 40.

Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Forearm, limitation of extension of?

The VA rates Forearm, limitation of extension of under Diagnostic Code (DC) 5207, governed by 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a. The diagnostic code establishes the specific rating tiers and severity criteria the VA examiner applies.

What is the difference between a 10% and a 50% rating for Forearm, limitation of extension of?

A 10% rating requires: Extension limited to 60°; 10. A 50% rating requires: Extension limited to 110°; 40. The difference typically reflects the frequency, severity, or functional impact of the condition as documented in medical records and C&P examination findings.

Can Forearm, limitation of extension of qualify for TDIU (Total Disability Individual Unemployability)?

Veterans rated for Forearm, limitation of extension of may qualify for TDIU if the condition — alone or in combination with other service-connected disabilities — prevents substantially gainful employment. A single disability rated at 60% or higher (or multiple disabilities combining to 70%, with one at 40%) can support a TDIU claim under 38 CFR § 4.16.

What evidence do I need to establish service connection for Forearm, limitation of extension of?

Service connection for Forearm, limitation of extension of requires three elements: (1) a current diagnosis of the condition, (2) an in-service event, injury, or disease, and (3) a medical nexus linking the current diagnosis to that in-service occurrence. A nexus letter from a treating or independent medical examiner is the most reliable nexus evidence.

What is the C&P exam like for Forearm, limitation of extension of?

A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam for Forearm, limitation of extension of uses a Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) specific to the body system involved. The examiner documents the frequency, severity, and functional impact of your symptoms. Bring all relevant treatment records and be prepared to describe your worst-day symptoms — the examiner rates your condition based on the full clinical picture, not a single visit.

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