The VA rates knee conditions on two tracks that can be combined: limitation of motion (Diagnostic Codes 5260/5261) and instability or recurrent subluxation (Diagnostic Code 5257), each commonly 10%, 20%, or 30%. Because motion and instability are rated separately, one knee can carry more than one rating, and each knee is evaluated on its own. Knee conditions also frequently support secondary claims for the opposite knee, hips, or back from an altered gait.
Diagnostic code
DC 5256–5261 (motion) and DC 5257 (instability)
How the rating works
Limitation of flexion: 10% at 45°, 20% at 30°, 30% at 15°. Limitation of extension: 10% at 10°, 20% at 15°, up to 50% at 45°. Instability (DC 5257): 10% slight, 20% moderate, 30% severe. Painful motion warrants at least the minimum compensable rating even with near-normal range.
Secondary conditions to watch for
These are commonly connected to knee pain — each can be rated on top of it with a medical nexus. Most veterans leave these on the table.
Opposite-knee strain
Favoring one knee overloads the other.
Hip or back condition
An altered gait commonly aggravates the hips and lower back.
Depression
Chronic joint pain can support a secondary mental-health claim.
Evidence that wins this claim
- Imaging or exam confirming the knee diagnosis.
- Range-of-motion measurements for flexion and extension.
- Documentation of instability or giving-way for a DC 5257 rating.
- A nexus opinion for any secondary joint or mental-health claim.
Knee pain — frequently asked questions
- Can I get two ratings for one knee?
- Yes. The VA can rate limitation of motion (DC 5260/5261) and instability (DC 5257) separately for the same knee, because they compensate different problems.
- What conditions are secondary to a knee injury?
- Commonly the opposite knee, the hips, or the lower back from an altered gait — plus depression from chronic pain. Each needs a nexus opinion to the service-connected knee.
Updated June 2026. Ratings come from the VA Schedule for Rating Disabilities (38 CFR Part 4); your exact rating depends on the medical evidence. Educational information, not medical or legal advice. Not affiliated with the VA.
Think your knee pain is rated too low?
Get a free, no-obligation review from a VA-accredited representative who can pursue secondary conditions and the back pay you may be owed.
Free to you · No obligation · We may be compensated by the representative, which never affects your benefits. Not affiliated with the VA.
Free PACT Act Claim Guide
A plain-English guide to filing a strong toxic-exposure claim — plus alerts when new conditions or 2026 pay rates change. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.
We never sell your data. Not affiliated with the VA.