Recurrent Subluxation or Lateral Instability of the Knee
Recurrent Subluxation or Lateral Instability of the Knee is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR Part 4, DC 5257, Diagnostic Code 5257, from 0% to 30% based on the frequency and functional severity of symptoms. The maximum 30% rating requires: Unrepaired or failed repair of complete ligament tear causing persistent instability, and a medical provider prescribes both an assistive device (cane(s), crutch(es), walker) and bracing for ambulation e.g.,. Most claims establish the 0% or 10% rating before reaching the top tier.
What are the VA rating criteria for Recurrent Subluxation or Lateral Instability of the Knee?
Slight recurrent subluxation or lateral instability of the knee: Minimal, with only occasional buckling or giving way without significant functional impact.
Note: Objective evidence of instability required (e.g., Lachman test, stress X-rays).
Sprain, incomplete ligament tear, or complete ligament tear (repaired, unrepaired, or failed repair) causing persistent instability, without a prescription from a medical provider for an assistive device (cane(s), crutch(es), walker) or bracing for ambulation e.g.,
Note: Objective evidence of instability required (e.g., Lachman test, stress X-rays). DC 5257 has no 0% tier; minimum compensable rating is 10%.
(b) Unrepaired or failed repair of complete ligament tear causing persistent instability, and a medical provider prescribes either an assistive device (cane(s), crutch(es), walker) or bracing for ambulation e.g.,
Unrepaired or failed repair of complete ligament tear causing persistent instability, and a medical provider prescribes both an assistive device (cane(s), crutch(es), walker) and bracing for ambulation e.g.,
“(b) Unrepaired or failed repair of complete ligament tear causing persistent instability, and a medical provider prescribes either an assistive device (cane(s), crutch(es), walker) or bracing for ambulation e.g.,”
Which conditions are commonly secondary to Recurrent Subluxation or Lateral Instability of the Knee?
View 1 secondary condition linked to Recurrent Subluxation or Lateral Instability of the Knee
Medical rationale, evidence strength, and filing tips — rated under 38 CFR § 3.310
Common Questions About Recurrent Subluxation or Lateral Instability of the Knee VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Recurrent Subluxation or Lateral Instability of the Knee?
The VA rates Recurrent Subluxation or Lateral Instability of the Knee under Diagnostic Code 5257 at 0%, 10%, 20%, 30%. The minimum 0% rating requires: Slight recurrent subluxation or lateral instability of the knee: Minimal, with only occasional buckling or giving way without significant functional impact.. The maximum 30% rating requires: Unrepaired or failed repair of complete ligament tear causing persistent instability, and a medical provider prescribes both an assistive device (cane(s), crutch(es), walker) and bracing for ambulation e.g.,.
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Recurrent Subluxation or Lateral Instability of the Knee?
The VA rates Recurrent Subluxation or Lateral Instability of the Knee under Diagnostic Code (DC) 5257, governed by 38 CFR 38 CFR Part 4, DC 5257. The diagnostic code establishes the specific rating tiers and severity criteria the VA examiner applies.
What is the difference between a 0% and a 30% rating for Recurrent Subluxation or Lateral Instability of the Knee?
A 0% rating requires: Slight recurrent subluxation or lateral instability of the knee: Minimal, with only occasional buckling or giving way without significant functional impact.. A 30% rating requires: Unrepaired or failed repair of complete ligament tear causing persistent instability, and a medical provider prescribes both an assistive device (cane(s), crutch(es), walker) and bracing for ambulation e.g.,. The difference typically reflects the frequency, severity, or functional impact of the condition as documented in medical records and C&P examination findings.
Can Recurrent Subluxation or Lateral Instability of the Knee qualify for TDIU (Total Disability Individual Unemployability)?
Veterans rated for Recurrent Subluxation or Lateral Instability of the Knee 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 Recurrent Subluxation or Lateral Instability of the Knee?
Service connection for Recurrent Subluxation or Lateral Instability of the Knee 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.
Which conditions are commonly secondary to Recurrent Subluxation or Lateral Instability of the Knee?
Recurrent Subluxation or Lateral Instability of the Knee is associated with 1 documented secondary condition. Secondary conditions caused or aggravated by a service-connected disability are ratable under 38 CFR § 3.310. See the secondary conditions page for the full list with medical rationale and evidence strength ratings.
What is the C&P exam like for Recurrent Subluxation or Lateral Instability of the Knee?
A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam for Recurrent Subluxation or Lateral Instability of the Knee 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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