Limited elbow bending (flexion)
The VA rates Limited elbow bending (flexion) under Diagnostic Code 5206 across 6 severity levels, from 0% to 50%. The applicable level depends on the full criteria and the evidence for the condition. These percentages are alternatives, not amounts to add together.
Catalog name: Forearm, limitation of flexion of.
Rating schedule — DC 5206 at a glance
- Minimum rating
- 0%
- Maximum rating
- 50%
- Rating tiers
- 6
- CFR section
- § 4.71a
- Body system
- Musculoskeletal System
- Secondary conditions
- 0
Lowest schedular rating available
TDIU may raise effective compensation to 100%
0%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%
Where this code is published
None mapped
What are the VA rating criteria for Limited elbow bending (flexion)?
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 0% | Flexion limited to 110°; 0 |
| 10% | Flexion limited to 100°; 10 |
| 20% | Flexion limited to 70°; 30 Note: Normal flexion = 145 degrees. Measured from 0 (full extension). |
| 30% | Flexion limited to 55°; 40 |
| 40% | Flexion limited to 45°; 50 |
| 50% | Flexion limited to 45°; 40 |
“Flexion limited to 55°; 40”
What other musculoskeletal conditions does the VA rate?
These diagnostic codes sit next to Limited elbow bending (flexion) in 38 CFR Part 4. The rating schedule is ordered anatomically, so neighbouring codes usually cover the same joint, organ, or system, and a claim often involves more than one of them.
- 5200Scapulohumeral articulation, ankylosis ofRated up to 50%
- 5201Arm, limitation of motion ofRated up to 40%
- 5202Humerus, other impairment ofRated up to 80%
- 5203Clavicle or scapula, impairment ofRated up to 20%
- 5205Elbow, ankylosis ofRated up to 60%
- 5207Forearm, limitation of extension ofRated up to 50%
- 5208Forearm, flexion limited to 100° and extension to 45°Rated up to 20%
- 5209Elbow, other impairment of Flail jointRated up to 60%
- 5210Radius and ulna, nonunion of, with flail false jointRated up to 50%
- 5211Ulna, impairment ofRated up to 40%
What to do with a Limited elbow bending (flexion) rating
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- The VA C&P Exam Explained: Before, During, and AfterA VA C&P exam helps VA decide service connection and your rating. Here is what happens before, during, and after, plus how to request your exam report.
- VA Service Connection Evidence 101: The Three-Legged StoolFor an original claim tied to active-duty service, VA needs a current disability, an in-service event, and a link between them. Here is what each part takes.
- VA Math Explained: How Combined Disability Ratings Really WorkVA ratings do not add. Learn how 38 CFR 4.25 combines disabilities using whole-person efficiency, why 50 and 30 round to 70, and how the bilateral factor works.
Common Questions About Limited elbow bending (flexion) VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Limited elbow bending (flexion)?
The VA rates Limited elbow bending (flexion) 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 Limited elbow bending (flexion)?
The VA rates Limited elbow bending (flexion) under Diagnostic Code (DC) 5206, published in 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 Limited elbow bending (flexion)?
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 Limited elbow bending (flexion) qualify for TDIU?
Possibly. Limited elbow bending (flexion) maxes at 50%, which doesn't meet the single-disability TDIU threshold of 60% alone. However, if combined with other service-connected disabilities totaling 70%+ (with one at 40%+), TDIU under 38 CFR § 4.16(a) may apply. Extraschedular TDIU under § 4.16(b) is also available if the condition alone prevents work regardless of rating.
What evidence supports a higher rating for Limited elbow bending (flexion)?
The key evidence for Limited elbow bending (flexion) is documentation of how the condition affects daily functioning. For musculoskeletal conditions, range of motion measurements (active, passive, weight-bearing, and non-weight-bearing per Correia v. McDonald) and flare-up documentation are critical. A nexus letter from a qualified medical professional linking the current severity to service is essential for contested claims.
What happens at the C&P exam for Limited elbow bending (flexion)?
The C&P examiner uses a Musculoskeletal System DBQ and evaluates your condition against the DC 5206 rating criteria. Expect range of motion testing in multiple positions. Under Correia v. McDonald, the examiner must test active, passive, weight-bearing, and non-weight-bearing range of motion. Report your worst flare-up symptoms — if you cannot attend during a flare, request the exam be rescheduled.
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