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DC 5261Musculoskeletal System38 CFR § 4.71a, DC 5261

Limitation of Extension of the Leg (Knee)

VA disability rating criteria for Limitation of Extension of the Leg (Knee) under Diagnostic Code 5261. The VA assigns ratings of 0%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50% based on the severity and functional impact of your condition.

Rating Criteria

0%Disability Rating

Extension limited to 5 degrees. Note: The minimum compensable rating under DC 5261 is 10% (extension limited to 10 degrees). A 0% non-compensable rating may be assigned when service connection is established but the limitation does not meet the 10% threshold.

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%Disability Rating

Extension limited to 10 degrees.

20%Disability Rating

Extension limited to 15 degrees.

30%Disability Rating

Extension limited to 20 degrees.

40%Disability Rating

Extension limited to 30 degrees.

50%Disability Rating

Extension limited to 45 degrees.

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.

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