Leg, limitation of extension of — VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR DC 5261)

The VA rates Leg, limitation of extension of under Diagnostic Code 5261 at the following tiers: 0%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%. The minimum 0% rating requires: Extension limited to 5°. The maximum 50% rating requires: Extension limited to 45°.

Diagnostic Code 5261 is the VA rating identifier for Leg, limitation of extension 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 Leg, limitation of extension of under DC 5261 is 50%. This tier requires: Extension limited to 45°. Veterans who cannot secure substantially gainful employment due to Leg, limitation of extension 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.

Leg, limitation of extension of is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5261. 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 Leg, limitation of extension of may be ratable under 38 CFR § 3.310. Veterans should work with a VSO or accredited claims agent to document the medical relationship.

The key evidence for Leg, limitation of extension of depends on the body system. For musculoskeletal conditions, range of motion measurements (active, passive, weight-bearing, and non-weight-bearing per Correia v. McDonald) and documented flare-ups are the most impactful evidence. A nexus letter from a qualified medical professional is essential for contested claims.

Leg, limitation of extension of maxes at 50%, below the single-disability TDIU threshold of 60%. However, combined with other service-connected disabilities totaling 70%+ (with one at 40%+), TDIU under § 4.16(a) may apply. Extraschedular TDIU under § 4.16(b) is available if Leg, limitation of extension of alone prevents work regardless of the rating percentage.