Updated March 2026

Knee VA Disability Rating

Q: Can I get separate VA ratings for knee limitation of motion and instability?

Yes. Under VAOPGCPREC 23-97, the VA can assign separate ratings for knee limitation of motion (DC 5260 or 5261) and knee instability (DC 5257). This means a veteran could receive a 10% rating for limited flexion and a separate 10% rating for slight lateral instability, which would combine for a higher overall rating.

Q: What VA rating do you get for a total knee replacement?

A total knee replacement (DC 5055) receives a temporary 100% rating for one year following surgery. After the one-year convalescence period, the minimum rating is 30%, with higher ratings of 60% assigned for chronic residuals consisting of severe painful motion or weakness.

Diagnostic Codes 5260 (Limitation of Flexion) / 5261 (Limitation of Extension) / 5257 (Instability) / 5055 (Knee Replacement) — Knee conditions can be rated under multiple codes simultaneously, with ratings from 0% to 100%.

Rating Criteria — Limitation of Flexion (DC 5260)

Rating	Criteria	2026 Monthly Pay
0%	Flexion limited to 60 degrees.	$0.00
10%	Flexion limited to 45 degrees.	$180.42
20%	Flexion limited to 30 degrees.	$356.66
30%	Flexion limited to 15 degrees.	$552.47

Rating Criteria — Limitation of Extension (DC 5261)

Rating	Criteria	2026 Monthly Pay
0%	Extension limited to 5 degrees.	$0.00
10%	Extension limited to 10 degrees.	$180.42
20%	Extension limited to 15 degrees.	$356.66
30%	Extension limited to 20 degrees.	$552.47
40%	Extension limited to 30 degrees.	$795.84
50%	Extension limited to 45 degrees.	$1,132.90

Rating Criteria — Instability (DC 5257)

Rating	Criteria	2026 Monthly Pay
10%	Slight recurrent subluxation or lateral instability.	$180.42
20%	Moderate recurrent subluxation or lateral instability.	$356.66
30%	Severe recurrent subluxation or lateral instability.	$552.47

Rating Criteria — Knee Replacement (DC 5055)

Rating	Criteria	2026 Monthly Pay
100%	For 1 year following prosthetic replacement of knee joint (temporary).	$3,938.58
60%	Chronic residuals consisting of severe painful motion or weakness in the affected extremity.	$1,435.02
30%	Minimum rating after knee replacement (intermediate degrees rated by analogy).	$552.47

Pay rates shown are for a single veteran with no dependents. View full 2026 rate tables with dependents.

Common Secondary Conditions

Veterans with knee conditions often file for these related conditions to increase their combined rating:

Hip Conditions — Altered gait and compensatory mechanics from knee disabilities frequently cause or aggravate hip problems. Rated under limitation of motion codes.
Ankle Conditions (DC 5271) — Changes in walking patterns from knee instability or limited motion can affect ankle joints. Rated 10–20% for limited motion.
Lumbar Spine (DC 5237/5243) — An altered gait from knee problems can cause or worsen back conditions. Rated 10–50%.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get separate VA ratings for knee limitation of motion and instability?

Yes. Under VAOPGCPREC 23-97, the VA can assign separate ratings for knee limitation of motion (DC 5260 or 5261) and knee instability (DC 5257). This means a veteran could receive a 10% rating for limited flexion and a separate 10% rating for slight lateral instability, which would combine for a higher overall rating.

What VA rating do you get for a total knee replacement?

A total knee replacement (DC 5055) receives a temporary 100% rating for one year following surgery. After the one-year convalescence period, the minimum rating is 30%, with higher ratings of 60% assigned for chronic residuals consisting of severe painful motion or weakness.

How does the VA measure knee range of motion?

During a C&P exam, the VA measures knee flexion (bending) and extension (straightening) using a goniometer. Normal knee flexion is 140 degrees and normal extension is 0 degrees. The examiner should test both active and passive range of motion and note any pain, weakness, or flare-ups that cause additional limitation.

Calculate your combined VA disability rating with knee conditions and other disabilities.

VA Disability Rating Calculator

In-Depth Guide

For detailed information on dual ratings, C&P exam tips, and filing strategies for knee claims, read our full guide:

Knee VA Rating 2026 — Full Guide