Leg, limitation of extension of
The VA rates Leg, limitation of extension of under Diagnostic Code 5261 across 6 severity levels, from 0% to 50%. The 50% maximum means additional ratings through secondary conditions or combined ratings are critical for higher compensation.
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%
Part 4 rating schedule
None mapped
What are the VA rating criteria for Leg, limitation of extension of?
| 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°”
Common Questions About Leg, limitation of extension of VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Leg, limitation of extension of?
The VA rates Leg, limitation of extension of 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 Leg, limitation of extension of?
The VA rates Leg, limitation of extension of under Diagnostic Code (DC) 5261, 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 Leg, limitation of extension of?
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 Leg, limitation of extension of qualify for TDIU?
Possibly. Leg, limitation of extension of 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 Leg, limitation of extension of?
The key evidence for Leg, limitation of extension of 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 Leg, limitation of extension of?
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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