How the VA Rates Knee Conditions
The plain-English version of the 38 CFR Part 4, DC 5257 (Instability) / 5260-5261 (Flexion/Extension Limitation) criteria a VA rater evaluates Knee 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 5257, 5258, 5259, 5260, 5261, 5262, 5263
The rating levels
Criteria paraphrased from 38 CFR Part 4, DC 5257 (Instability) / 5260-5261 (Flexion/Extension Limitation) 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
DC 5260: Knee flexion limited to 60 degrees. OR DC 5261: Knee extension limited to 10 degrees (cannot fully straighten). OR DC 5257: Slight instability with occasional lateral locking.
Examples from this level’s criteria
- Cannot fully bend or straighten the knee
- Occasional giving way or buckling
- Pain with stairs, kneeling, or prolonged walking
- Swelling after activity
20%
$356.66/month
DC 5260: Flexion limited to 45 degrees. OR DC 5261: Extension limited to 15 degrees. OR DC 5257: Moderate instability — frequent giving way affecting daily activities.
Examples from this level’s criteria
- Significant range-of-motion limitation
- Knee gives out regularly without warning
- Cannot walk on uneven terrain safely
- Requires brace for daily activities
30%
$552.47/month
DC 5260: Flexion limited to 30 degrees. OR DC 5257: Severe instability with marked lateral displacement on exam.
Examples from this level’s criteria
- Severe flexion limitation — cannot bend knee past 30 degrees
- Marked instability — knee collapses under weight
- Cannot climb stairs or perform kneeling tasks
40%
$795.84/month
DC 5261: Extension limited to 30 degrees (knee locked in a markedly bent position — cannot straighten at all). OR DC 5257: Severe instability with chronic dislocation.
Examples from this level’s criteria
- Locked knee — cannot extend past 30 degrees
- Chronic knee dislocation
- Requires crutches or wheelchair for ambulation
50%
$1,132.90/month
DC 5262: Leg, lower, amputation at the knee (knee disarticulation) or with stump of the femur 4 to 4.5 inches in length.
Examples from this level’s criteria
- Knee disarticulation or short femoral stump
60%
$1,435.02/month
DC 5262: Knee replacement (prosthetic) — rated at a minimum of 60% for one year post-surgery, then re-evaluated based on residuals.
Examples from this level’s criteria
- Total knee replacement (TKA)
- Minimum 60% for first post-op year
- Post-surgical limitation rated on residual ROM and functional loss
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.
The evidence that matters most
Goniometer measurements from treating provider — degrees matter
C&P exam tips for Knee Conditions
- Bring imaging: X-rays showing joint space narrowing, MRI showing meniscal or ligament tears.
- Demonstrate instability during exam — if you have bracing documentation, bring it.
- Rate multiple knee codes separately if applicable: a knee can have both flexion limitation (5260) and instability (5257) — claim both.
- Describe locking, clicking, giving-way episodes with specifics (how often, what triggers it).
- Mention impact on standing and walking distances.
Common mistakes on Knee Conditions claims
- Only claiming one diagnostic code when multiple apply (instability, flexion limit, extension limit are all separate).
- Not mentioning giving-way episodes that could support instability (5257).
- Performing the range-of-motion test at best capacity — demonstrate your actual functional range.
- Forgetting to claim bilateral knees if both are affected.
Frequently asked questions
What diagnostic code does the VA use for Knee Conditions?
Knee Conditions is rated under 38 CFR Part 4, DC 5257 (Instability) / 5260-5261 (Flexion/Extension Limitation) — diagnostic codes 5257, 5258, 5259, 5260, 5261, 5262, 5263.
What is the highest schedular VA rating for Knee Conditions?
60% is the highest level in the rating schedule for Knee Conditions. The criteria at that level describe: DC 5262: Knee replacement (prosthetic) — rated at a minimum of 60% for one year post-surgery, then re-evaluated based on residuals.
How much does a 60% VA rating for Knee Conditions pay in 2026?
$1,435.02 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 Knee 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.