Free · From a nonprofit · No account needed
Knee, other impairment of
Diagnostic code 5257 · Musculoskeletal system · 38 CFR 4.71a
Rating criteria: the exact regulation text
Quoted from 38 CFR 4.71a. The "Rating" column is the percentage VA assigns for that level.
| Criteria | Rating |
|---|---|
| 5257 Knee, other impairment of: | |
| Recurrent subluxation or instability: | |
| Unrepaired or failed repair of complete ligament tear causing persistent instability, and a medical provider prescribes both an assistive device (e.g., cane(s), crutch(es), walker) and bracing for ambulation | 30 |
| One of the following: | |
| (a) Sprain, incomplete ligament tear, or repaired complete ligament tear causing persistent instability, and a medical provider prescribes a brace and/or assistive device (e.g., cane(s), crutch(es), walker) for ambulation. | |
| (b) Unrepaired or failed repair of complete ligament tear causing persistent instability, and a medical provider prescribes either an assistive device (e.g., cane(s), crutch(es), walker) or bracing for ambulation | 20 |
| Sprain, incomplete ligament tear, or complete ligament tear (repaired, unrepaired, or failed repair) causing persistent instability, without a prescription from a medical provider for an assistive device (e.g., cane(s), crutch(es), walker) or bracing for ambulation | 10 |
| Patellar instability: | |
| A diagnosed condition involving the patellofemoral complex with recurrent instability after surgical repair that requires a prescription by a medical provider for a brace and either a cane or a walker | 30 |
| A diagnosed condition involving the patellofemoral complex with recurrent instability after surgical repair that requires a prescription by a medical provider for one of the following: A brace, cane, or walker | 20 |
| A diagnosed condition involving the patellofemoral complex with recurrent instability (with or without history of surgical repair) that does not require a prescription from a medical provider for a brace, cane, or walker | 10 |
| Note (1): For patellar instability, the patellofemoral complex consists of the quadriceps tendon, the patella, and the patellar tendon. | |
| Note (2): A surgical procedure that does not involve repair of one or more patellofemoral components that contribute to the underlying instability shall not qualify as surgical repair for patellar instability (including, but not limited to, arthroscopy to remove loose bodies and joint aspiration). |
Where else the regulation mentions this code
These lines appear under other codes or headings in the schedule and name this code.
Note: At the conclusion of the 100 percent evaluation period, evaluate resurfacing under diagnostic codes 5256 through 5262; there is no minimum evaluation for resurfacing.
Under diagnostic code 5055 (Knee, resurfacing or replacement (prosthesis))
Evaluate under diagnostic codes 5256, 5257, 5260, or 5261 for the knee, or 5250-5254 for the hip, whichever results in the highest evaluation.
Evaluate under diagnostic codes 5256, 5257, 5260, or 5261 for the knee, or 5270 or 5271 for the ankle, whichever results in the highest evaluation.
Under diagnostic code 5262 (Tibia and fibula, impairment of)
Related codes in the regulation
- 5055 Knee, resurfacing or replacement (prosthesis)Mentioned together
- 5255 Femur, impairment ofMentioned together
- 5262 Tibia and fibula, impairment ofMentioned together
The VA exam form for this condition
VA examiners record their findings on a Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ). Reading it shows you what the exam will measure and ask.
Rules that apply to this body system
Where this comes from
38 CFR 4.71a, VA's Schedule for Rating Disabilities, from the official eCFR.
Regulation text current as of October 16, 2026.
Change history for this code (38 CFR Part 4, Appendix A): Evaluation July 6, 1950; criterion and note February 7, 2021.
Read it on eCFR.govInformation, not advice
This page shows the text of VA's rating regulation for information. It is not a rating estimate, and it is not legal or medical advice. VA decides every rating on the evidence in your file.
An accredited representative can help you with your claim for free. Find a VA-accredited representative.
File this claim for free
VetEZ Claim is a free app from VetClaims Alliance, a nonprofit. Start with an Intent to File (VA Form 21-0966): it can hold your effective date, the date back pay can start from, for up to a year while you get your claim ready. You review and sign each form, and the app sends it to VA. No subscriptions or paid upgrades.