How to Maximize Your VA Disability Rating for Knee Injuries 

Knee injuries can significantly impact Veterans’ mobility and quality of life. Maximizing your VA disability rating for these injuries requires understanding the VA’s rating system, properly filing claims, and appealing low ratings when necessary. 

VA’s Knee Disability Rating System 

The VA disability rating system for knee injuries is based on diagnostic codes that evaluate the severity of the condition. Conditions like limited range of motion, instability, arthritis, and chronic pain receive ratings from 0% to 60% depending on the degree of impairment. 

Common Diagnostic Codes for Knee Conditions 

Diagnostic codes are numerical designations used by the VA to classify and evaluate specific medical conditions for disability claims, determining the severity of the condition and the corresponding disability rating. 

• Diagnostic Code 5260: For limited flexion of the knee. 

• Diagnostic Code 5261: For limited extension of the knee. 

• Diagnostic Code 5257: For knee instability and recurrent dislocations. 

• Diagnostic Code 5003: For degenerative arthritis, rated based on the limitation of motion. 

Step-by-Step Guidance on Filing Claims 

1. Gather Medical Evidence: Ensure the knee injury is documented with diagnostic tests (X-rays, MRIs) and thorough physician notes. 

2. File a VA Disability Claim: Submit the claim through the VA, including all necessary medical documentation. 

3. Use a Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ): A DBQ can be completed by a medical professional to provide detailed information on the knee condition. Visit the VA’s website for the appropriate DBQ forms. 

4. Document Secondary Conditions: If knee injuries cause secondary conditions (like back pain), ensure these are also included in the claim. 

Tips for Appealing a Low Rating or Denial 

• File an appeal to the VA: Veterans who believe their knee injury was under-rated can appeal through the VA’s process by filing an appeal.  

• If you have additional medical documentation or you want to seek a second medical opinion to submit with the appeal, you can submit a VAF 20-0995 appeal that contains new and relevant evidence.  

• If the VA provided a legal or factual error on your claim, you can submit a VAF 20-0996 appeal pointing out the VA errors. No new evidence is submitted with this appeal lane.  

• If you want this claim to be reviewed by the Board of Appeals, you can file a VAF 21-10182appeal. Depending on the lane you choose for your Board appeal will allow you to choose a direct review docket, evidence submission docket to submit additional evidence, or a hearing with a Veterans law judge.    

Veteran Success Stories at Berry Law 

At Berry Law, we’ve helped numerous Veterans increase their disability ratings for knee injuries. One Veteran suffering from knee instability initially received a low rating but, after a detailed appeal with additional medical evidence, secured the full 30% rating for recurrent knee dislocations. Another Veteran dealing with degenerative arthritis in both knees successfully appealed their case, earning a combined rating of 40%. 

Getting the Right Rating for Knee Injuries 

Maximizing the VA disability rating for knee injuries requires a thorough understanding of the rating system and a proactive approach in filing and appealing claims. By documenting the condition fully, submitting relevant medical records, and knowing when to appeal and what type of appeal to select, Veterans can know they’ve put forth the right documentation to increase their potential to receive the benefits they deserve. 

For help with knee injury claims or appeals, contact Berry Law today and let us guide you through the process to secure the right compensation.