Diagnostic code 5260 / 5261 · 38 CFR 4.71a
Knee (limited motion) VA rating
Knees are rated on how far they bend (flexion, DC 5260) and straighten (extension, DC 5261). Each can be rated separately.
| Rating | What VA looks for | 2026 pay (single) |
|---|---|---|
| 0% | Bending limited to 60°, or straightening limited to 5°. | $0.00 |
| 10% | Bending limited to 45°, or straightening limited to 10°. | $180.42 |
| 20% | Bending limited to 30°, or straightening limited to 15°. | $356.66 |
| 30% | Bending limited to 15°, or straightening limited to 20°. | $552.47 |
| 40% | Straightening limited to 30°. | $795.84 |
| 50% | Straightening limited to 45°. | $1,132.90 |
Pay shown is for this condition alone with no dependents. Multiple conditions combine using VA math, not addition.
- • Knee instability (DC 5257) can be rated on top of limited motion.
- • Conditions in both knees trigger the bilateral factor, which the calculator applies automatically.
Summary written in plain language from the official rating schedule. The regulation's exact wording controls.