Knee injuries are one of the most common veterans’ disabilities because of the physical demands of training, deployments, and combat. Here’s a breakdown of how VA knee ratings work, what conditions qualify, and how knee conditions are rated.
Common Service-Connected Knee Conditions
Veterans may receive compensation for a wide variety of knee conditions, including:
- Knee strain or sprain
- Patellofemoral pain syndrome (runner’s knee)
- Meniscus tears
- Ligament injuries (ACL, MCL, etc.)
- Chondromalacia
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Bursitis
- Total knee replacement
- Instability or subluxation (knee giving out)
The VA evaluates these conditions using the VA Schedule for Rating Disabilities under 38 CFR § 4.71a, primarily using diagnostic codes 5256 through 5263.
How the VA Rates Knee Disabilities
Knee conditions are typically rated based on range of motion, pain, instability, and the overall impact on function. Some of the most common diagnostic codes include:
- DC 5260 – Limitation of Flexion
Ratings range from 0% to 30%, depending on how much the veteran can bend the knee. For example, flexion limited to 45 degrees may warrant a 10% rating. - DC 5261 – Limitation of Extension
Ratings range from 0% to 50%. For example, if the knee cannot fully extend beyond 10 degrees, the veteran might qualify for a 10% rating. - DC 5257 – Instability or Subluxation
Veterans can receive a 10%, 20%, or 30% rating for slight, moderate, or severe instability. This applies when the knee frequently gives out or feels unstable. - DC 5055 – Resurfacing or replacement
After a total knee replacement, the VA typically assigns a temporary 100% rating for 1 year, followed by a 30% minimum rating. Higher ratings (60%) may be assigned if chronic pain or weakness remains. - DC 5258 – Dislocated Semilunar Cartilage (Meniscus)
A 20% rating is assigned if the condition causes frequent locking, pain, and joint effusion.
Multiple Ratings
One of the few parts of the body where a veteran can get multiple ratings is the knee. For example, if the veteran has limitation of flexion (DC 5260) and instability (DC 5257), the veteran can be service connected for both as long as the symptoms don’t overlap.
Pain and Functional Loss
Even if a veteran retains full range of motion, they may still be eligible for a compensable rating if there is pain on motion. The VA’s “painful motion rule” requires that if a joint is service-connected and has painful motion, at least a 10% rating is warranted.
Bilateral Factor
If both knees are service-connected, the bilateral factor may apply. This adds extra compensation because of the increased impairment when both lower extremities are affected. The VA calculates this by combining the two ratings and adding 10% of the combined value.
Example: Both the left and right knee are service connected and rated at 10%. The combined rating for both knees is 19%. The bilateral factor then adds an additional 1.9%, so the total then becomes 20.9%.
Getting the Right Rating
To receive the appropriate knee rating, the veteran can provide:
- Service medical records showing the original injury
- Current medical records demonstrating ongoing symptoms
- Statements from doctors or physical therapists describing how the condition impacts work and daily life
- Personal statements or buddy letters describing instability, locking, or functional loss. It’s important to show how your symptoms developed over time, because continuity of symptoms is often considered by C&P examiners when they give their medical opinion.
Final Thoughts
VA knee ratings can be complex, especially when dealing with multiple knee issues or bilateral involvement. Understanding how the VA evaluates your specific condition can help ensure you receive the proper compensation. If you believe your knee condition is underrated or improperly evaluated, consider filing for an increase or working with a VA-accredited representative.
