Leg, limitation of flexion of
Leg, limitation of flexion of is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5260, from 0% to 30% based on the frequency and functional severity of symptoms. The maximum 30% rating requires: Flexion limited to 15°. Most claims establish the 0% or 10% rating before reaching the top tier.
What are the VA rating criteria for Leg, limitation of flexion of?
Flexion limited to 60°
Note: Normal knee flexion is approximately 140 degrees. Ratings are assigned when flexion falls below threshold values. DC 5260 applies when the primary limitation is in flexion rather than extension.
Flexion limited to 45°
Flexion limited to 30°
Flexion limited to 15°
Note: Flexion limited to 15 degrees represents severe functional limitation. At this level the veteran cannot perform activities requiring knee bending such as stair climbing or kneeling.
“Flexion limited to 30°”
Which conditions are commonly secondary to Leg, limitation of flexion of?
View 6 secondary conditions linked to Leg, limitation of flexion of
Medical rationale, evidence strength, and filing tips — rated under 38 CFR § 3.310
Common Questions About Leg, limitation of flexion of VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Leg, limitation of flexion of?
The VA rates Leg, limitation of flexion of under Diagnostic Code 5260 at 0%, 10%, 20%, 30%. The minimum 0% rating requires: Flexion limited to 60°. The maximum 30% rating requires: Flexion limited to 15°.
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Leg, limitation of flexion of?
The VA rates Leg, limitation of flexion of under Diagnostic Code (DC) 5260, 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 30% rating for Leg, limitation of flexion of?
A 0% rating requires: Flexion limited to 60°. A 30% rating requires: Flexion limited to 15°. 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 flexion of qualify for TDIU (Total Disability Individual Unemployability)?
Veterans rated for Leg, 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 Leg, limitation of flexion of?
Service connection for Leg, 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.
Which conditions are commonly secondary to Leg, limitation of flexion of?
Leg, limitation of flexion of is associated with 6 documented secondary conditions. 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 Leg, limitation of flexion of?
A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam for Leg, 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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