Limited knee straightening (extension)
The VA rates Limited knee straightening (extension) under Diagnostic Code 5261 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: Leg, limitation of extension of.
Rating schedule · DC 5261 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 knee straightening (extension)?
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 0% | Extension limited to 5° Note: Normal knee extension is 0 degrees (fully straight). DC 5261 applies to limitations in extension (inability to fully straighten the knee). Extension loss is often more functionally limiting than flexion loss. |
| 10% | Extension limited to 10° |
| 20% | Extension limited to 15° |
| 30% | Extension limited to 20° |
| 40% | Extension limited to 30° |
| 50% | Extension limited to 45° Note: Extension limited to 45 degrees is the maximum rating for DC 5261. At this level, the knee is locked in a significantly flexed position, causing substantial gait abnormality and functional impairment. |
“Extension limited to 20°”
What other musculoskeletal conditions does the VA rate?
These diagnostic codes sit next to Limited knee straightening (extension) 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.
- 5256Knee, ankylosis ofRated up to 60%
- 5257Knee, other impairment ofRated up to 30%
- 5258Cartilage, semilunar, dislocated, with frequent episodes of “locking,” pain, and effusion into the jointRated up to 20%
- 5259Cartilage, semilunar, removal of, symptomaticRated up to 10%
- 5260Leg, limitation of flexion ofRated up to 30%
- 5262Tibia and fibula, impairment ofRated up to 40%
- 5263Genu recurvatum (acquired, traumatic, with weakness and insecurity in weight-bearing objectively demonstrated)Rated up to 10%
- 5269Plantar fasciitisRated up to 30%
- 5270Ankle, ankylosis ofRated up to 40%
- 5271Ankle, limited motion ofRated up to 20%
What to do with a Limited knee straightening (extension) 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 knee straightening (extension) VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Limited knee straightening (extension)?
The VA rates Limited knee straightening (extension) under Diagnostic Code 5261 at 0%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%. The minimum 0% rating requires: Extension limited to 5°. The maximum 50% rating requires: Extension limited to 45°.
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Limited knee straightening (extension)?
The VA rates Limited knee straightening (extension) under Diagnostic Code (DC) 5261, 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 knee straightening (extension)?
A 0% rating requires: Extension limited to 5°. A 50% rating requires: Extension limited to 45°. 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 knee straightening (extension) qualify for TDIU?
Possibly. Limited knee straightening (extension) 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 knee straightening (extension)?
The key evidence for Limited knee straightening (extension) 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 knee straightening (extension)?
The C&P examiner uses a Musculoskeletal System DBQ and evaluates your condition against the DC 5261 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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