DC 5206Musculoskeletal System38 CFR § 4.71aLast verified: APR 22, 2026

Forearm, limitation of flexion of

Forearm, limitation of flexion of is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5206, from 0% to 50% based on the frequency and functional severity of symptoms. The maximum 50% rating requires: Flexion limited to 45°; 40. Most claims establish the 0% or 10% rating before reaching the top tier.

Rating schedule — DC 5206 at a glance

Minimum rating
0%

Lowest schedular rating available

Maximum rating
50%

TDIU may raise effective compensation to 100%

Rating tiers
6

0%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%

CFR section
38 CFR § 4.71a

Part 4 rating schedule

Body system
Musculoskeletal System
Secondary conditions
0

None mapped

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

0%Disability Rating

Flexion limited to 110°; 0

10%Disability Rating

Flexion limited to 100°; 10

20%Disability Rating

Flexion limited to 70°; 30

Note: Normal flexion = 145 degrees. Measured from 0 (full extension).

30%Disability Rating

Flexion limited to 55°; 40

40%Disability Rating

Flexion limited to 45°; 50

50%Disability Rating

Flexion limited to 45°; 40

Flexion limited to 55°; 40

Common Questions About Forearm, limitation of flexion of VA Ratings

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

The VA rates Forearm, limitation of flexion of under Diagnostic Code 5206 at 0%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%. The minimum 0% rating requires: Flexion limited to 110°; 0. The maximum 50% rating requires: Flexion limited to 45°; 40.

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

The VA rates Forearm, limitation of flexion of under Diagnostic Code (DC) 5206, 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 0% and a 50% rating for Forearm, limitation of flexion of?

A 0% rating requires: Flexion limited to 110°; 0. A 50% rating requires: Flexion limited to 45°; 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 flexion of qualify for TDIU (Total Disability Individual Unemployability)?

Veterans rated for Forearm, limitation of flexion 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 flexion of?

Service connection for Forearm, limitation of flexion 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 flexion of?

A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam for Forearm, limitation of flexion 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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