Musculoskeletal · 38 CFR 4.71a · DC 5260
Knee Strain VA Disability Rating
Knee strain is most commonly rated by limited range of motion (DC 5260 for flexion or DC 5261 for extension). For bilateral knee conditions, the bilateral factor under 38 CFR 4.26 adds 10% to the combined value of the paired ratings before they combine with other ratings. Painful motion under DeLuca / Mitchell case law adds an additional rating consideration when objective limitation does not capture functional loss.
Rating criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 0% | Flexion limited to 60 degrees. |
| 10% | Flexion limited to 45 degrees. |
| 20% | Flexion limited to 30 degrees. |
| 30% | Flexion limited to 15 degrees. |
Common secondary conditions
Veterans rated for knee strain frequently file secondary-service-connection claims for:
- Other knee (bilateral factor)
- Hip strain
- Lower back strain (gait alteration)
- Plantar fasciitis
Use the calculator
Once you know the percentage assigned for this condition, plug it into the VA Combined Rating Calculator alongside any other service-connected ratings to see your combined percentage and 2026 monthly compensation.
Source citations
- 38 CFR 4.71a (eCFR)
- VA.gov current monthly compensation rates
- VA Office of General Counsel — Accreditation directory
VetDisabilityCalc is an independent reference site operated by Zoom Lifestyle LLC. We are not VA-accredited and we do not prepare or present VA claims. The information in this guide is reference material based on the cited regulations and is not legal advice. For representation, use the official VA OGC accreditation directory.