Knee, ankylosis of — VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR DC 5256)

The VA rates Knee, ankylosis of under Diagnostic Code 5256 at the following tiers: 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%. The minimum 30% rating requires: Favorable angle in full extension, or in slight flexion between 0° and 10°. The maximum 60% rating requires: Extremely unfavorable, in flexion at an angle of 45° or more.

Diagnostic Code 5256 is the VA rating identifier for Knee, ankylosis of within 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a. It defines the specific symptom criteria and percentage thresholds a VA adjudicator uses to assign a disability rating. The diagnostic code is listed on a veteran's rating decision letter.

The highest schedular rating for Knee, ankylosis of under DC 5256 is 60%. This tier requires: Extremely unfavorable, in flexion at an angle of 45° or more. Veterans who cannot secure substantially gainful employment due to Knee, ankylosis of alone or in combination with other service-connected conditions may also qualify for TDIU at the 100% compensation rate under 38 CFR § 4.16.

Knee, ankylosis of is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5256. This section is part of the Schedule for Rating Disabilities (38 CFR Part 4) and can be read in full at the eCFR website.

Secondary conditions caused or aggravated by Knee, ankylosis of may be ratable under 38 CFR § 3.310. Veterans should work with a VSO or accredited claims agent to document the medical relationship.

Service connection for Knee, ankylosis of requires three elements: (1) a current diagnosis of the condition, (2) an in-service event, injury, or disease that may have caused or aggravated it, and (3) a medical nexus connecting the current diagnosis to that in-service event. A nexus letter from a treating physician or independent medical examiner is the most reliable nexus evidence. C&P exam findings can also establish nexus if adequately documented.