Conditions / Musculoskeletal
38 CFR 4.71a, diagnostic code 5261 · checked 2026-10-20
VA rating for Knee limitation of extension
VA rates Knee limitation of extension under diagnostic code 5261 (Leg, limitation of extension of) at 6 levels from 0% to 50%. The lowest paid level, 10%, is worth $180.42 a month and the highest, 50%, $1,132.90 to a veteran alone at the rates effective December 1, 2025.
- 1Diagnostic code DC 5261
- 2Highest level 50% · $1,132.90
- 3Lowest paid level 10% · $180.42
Rating criteria for DC 5261
| Rating | What the schedule requires |
|---|---|
| 50% | Extension limited to 45 degrees. |
| 40% | Extension limited to 30 degrees. |
| 30% | Extension limited to 20 degrees. |
| 20% | Extension limited to 15 degrees. |
| 10% | Extension limited to 10 degrees. |
| 0% | Extension limited to 5 degrees. |
Summarized from eCFR, 38 CFR 4.71a Schedule of ratings, musculoskeletal system, diagnostic code 5261, checked 2026-10-20. The regulation's own wording governs.
Notes in the schedule
- Limitation of flexion of the same knee is rated under 5260, a separate code.
What each level pays
| Level | Alone | With spouse | With tinnitus 10% |
|---|---|---|---|
| 50% | $1,132.90 | $1,241.90 | 55 → 60% |
| 40% | $795.84 | $882.84 | 46 → 50% |
| 30% | $552.47 | $617.47 | 37 → 40% |
| 20% | $356.66 | $356.66 | 28 → 30% |
| 10% | $180.42 | $180.42 | 19 → 20% |
| 0% | $0.00 | $0.00 | 10 → 10% |
3 of the 5 compensable levels are 30% or higher, where dependents raise the payment; below that the rate is flat. A 0% level means the condition is service connected but not compensable: it pays nothing by itself, yet it is on record if it worsens. The spread from the lowest paid level to the highest is $952.48 a month. The last column shows the combined rating if this condition is joined by a 10% tinnitus rating.
Both sides: the bilateral factor
Knee limitation of extension affects a leg or foot, so when both sides are rated, 38 CFR 4.26 applies. Two ratings of 10% combine to 19; the bilateral factor adds 10% of that, giving 21, rated 20%. With 50% on one side and 10% on the other, the paired value is 61, rated 60%. Other ratings on paired limbs join the same bilateral group; the bilateral factor guide shows how.
How this rating fits a claim
This code reaches 40% or more, the level one disability needs under 38 CFR 4.16(a) when several disabilities together reach 70% for unemployability. A rating under DC 5261 is combined with every other rating by Table I, never added; the calculator shows the result with your other ratings and dependents.
The rating is set from the evidence at the time of the decision, usually including a VA examination. If the condition has worsened since, VA accepts a claim for an increase on VA Form 21-526EZ; see how to request an increase.
Related conditions
- Degenerative arthritis (DC 5003)
- Shoulder replacement (DC 5051)
- Hip replacement (DC 5054)
- Knee replacement (DC 5055)
- Shoulder (arm) limitation of motion (DC 5201)
Pay at the top level: 50% VA pay. At the lowest paid level: 10% VA pay.
Rating Ledger is not part of VA and does not file or decide claims. Amounts are VA's published monthly rates effective December 1, 2025 for a veteran, before any deduction or special monthly compensation; ratings follow 38 CFR 4.25 and 38 CFR 4.26 and 38 CFR 4.71a, diagnostic code 5261. Last checked 2026-10-20. Only a VA rating decision sets a rating or a payment. See the methodology.