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Home / VA Ratings A–Z / Knee Pain & Instability

VA Rating for Knee Pain & Instability

DC 5256–5263 Max schedular: 60% Category: Musculoskeletal Updated for 2026 rates
The Official Criteria

Knee Pain & Instability Rating Chart

Criteria from 38 CFR Part 4 (DC 5256–5263). Pay shown is the 2026 monthly rate for a veteran alone at that percentage by itself.

RatingWhat qualifies2026 monthly pay*
60%Extremely unfavorable ankylosis in flexion at 45° or more (DC 5256); or chronic residuals of knee replacement with severe painful motion or weakness (DC 5055; 100% for 1 year after surgery).$1,435.02
30%Flexion limited to 15° (DC 5260); or extension limited to 20° (DC 5261); or severe recurrent subluxation or lateral instability (DC 5257).$552.47
20%Flexion limited to 30°; or extension limited to 15°; or moderate recurrent subluxation or lateral instability; or dislocated cartilage with frequent locking, pain, and effusion (DC 5258).$356.66
10%Flexion limited to 45°; or extension limited to 10°; or slight recurrent subluxation or lateral instability; or painful motion of the knee (38 CFR § 4.59).$180.42
0%Flexion limited to 60°; or extension limited to 5°.

*Rate for that single rating with no dependents. Your combined rating and household may differ — run your exact numbers in our calculator.

How the VA Rates Knee Pain & Instability

Knees are unusual: you can receive separate ratings for the same knee — one for limitation of motion (flexion or extension) and one for instability (DC 5257), because they compensate different disabilities. Normal knee motion is 0–140°. Painful motion alone entitles you to the minimum 10%. Both knees rated compensably triggers the bilateral factor.

Evidence That Wins This Claim

  • Instability + limited motion = two ratings for one knee. Make sure both are examined and claimed.
  • If you use a brace or your knee gives way, say so explicitly — that is DC 5257 evidence.
  • A limping gait from a bad knee often causes hip and back problems — classic secondary claims.

Common Questions

Can I get two VA ratings for one knee?

Yes — limitation of motion and instability are rated separately for the same knee. A veteran can hold, for example, 10% for painful motion and 20% for moderate instability at once.

What rating does a knee replacement get?

100% for one year following the surgery, then a minimum of 30%, with 60% for chronic severe residuals.

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