How the VA Rates Elbow & Forearm Conditions
The plain-English version of the 38 CFR Part 4, DC 5206 (Flexion) / 5207 (Extension) — measured on the major (dominant) and minor (non-dominant) arm criteria a VA rater evaluates Elbow & Forearm Conditions against, with the 2026 monthly rate at each level. A reference to what the regulation describes — never a prediction of any rating.
Diagnostic codes 5205, 5206, 5207, 5208, 5209, 5024
The rating levels
Criteria paraphrased from 38 CFR Part 4, DC 5206 (Flexion) / 5207 (Extension) — measured on the major (dominant) and minor (non-dominant) arm for readability. Monthly amounts are the 2026 rate (effective December 1, 2025) for a veteran with no dependents if this were the only rated condition — dependents add more, and multiple conditions combine under the VA’s own math.
10%
$180.42/month
Forearm flexion limited to 90–100 degrees (DC 5206); OR forearm extension limited to 45–60 degrees (DC 5207); OR painful or limited motion of an elbow joint with X-ray-confirmed arthritis (DC 5024/5003). Epicondylitis is most often rated here by limitation of motion. Same percentage for dominant or non-dominant arm.
Examples from this level’s criteria
- Pain on gripping, lifting, or twisting the forearm
- Cannot fully bend or straighten the elbow
- Tenderness over the inner (medial) or outer (lateral) epicondyle
- Pain reproduced with resisted wrist extension/flexion
20%
$356.66/month
Forearm flexion limited to 70 degrees (DC 5206); OR extension limited to 75 degrees (DC 5207). Same percentage for dominant or non-dominant arm.
Examples from this level’s criteria
- Marked loss of elbow bending or straightening
- Persistent weakness gripping objects
- Functional loss in reaching and carrying
30%
$552.47/month
Flexion limited to 55 degrees (30% major / 20% minor); OR extension limited to 90 degrees (30% major / 20% minor).
Examples from this level’s criteria
- Severe restriction of elbow motion
- Cannot bring hand to mouth or shoulder reliably
- Significant weakness and loss of endurance
40%
$795.84/month
Flexion limited to 45 degrees (40% major / 30% minor); OR extension limited to 100 degrees (40% major / 30% minor); OR favorable ankylosis of the elbow.
Examples from this level’s criteria
- Elbow nearly fixed — minimal usable motion
- Cannot perform most overhead or reaching tasks
- Muscle atrophy of the arm or forearm
The listed symptoms are examples that appear in each level’s criteria — not a checklist that earns a percentage. Raters apply the criteria as a whole.
C&P exam tips for Elbow & Forearm Conditions
- What wins this rating: goniometer-measured range of motion (flexion and extension) documented at its worst, plus X-ray confirmation of arthritis if motion loss is mild — painful motion with arthritis supports at least 10%.
- Specify dominant vs. non-dominant arm — higher percentages apply to the dominant (major) arm.
- Ask the examiner to document additional loss after repetitive use and on flare-ups (DeLuca factors).
- For epicondylitis, describe pain with gripping and lifting, not just resting pain.
Common mistakes on Elbow & Forearm Conditions claims
- Performing the range-of-motion test at best effort instead of demonstrating typical functional limitation.
- Not having an X-ray on file when motion loss is mild — arthritis plus painful motion supports a 10% minimum.
- Failing to state which arm is dominant.
Frequently asked questions
What diagnostic code does the VA use for Elbow & Forearm Conditions?
Elbow & Forearm Conditions is rated under 38 CFR Part 4, DC 5206 (Flexion) / 5207 (Extension) — measured on the major (dominant) and minor (non-dominant) arm — diagnostic codes 5205, 5206, 5207, 5208, 5209, 5024.
What is the highest schedular VA rating for Elbow & Forearm Conditions?
40% is the highest level in the rating schedule for Elbow & Forearm Conditions. The criteria at that level describe: Flexion limited to 45 degrees (40% major / 30% minor); OR extension limited to 100 degrees (40% major / 30% minor); OR favorable ankylosis of the elbow.
How much does a 40% VA rating for Elbow & Forearm Conditions pay in 2026?
$795.84 per month, tax-free, for a veteran with no dependents (rates effective December 1, 2025) — more with a spouse, children, or dependent parents. If you have other rated conditions, the VA combines ratings using its own math rather than adding them.
Build your Elbow & Forearm Conditions claim documentation
Your first claim builds free, on screen — a personal statement mapped to these criteria and a cited draft medical opinion. No card to sign up.
Start your claim — freeEducational information about the rating schedule — not legal or medical advice, never a prediction or promise of any rating, and not affiliated with the VA.