Diagnostic Code 5257
Musculoskeletal - Knee
Bilateral Factor Applicable
Max Rating: 30%
VA Disability Rating Criteria for Recurrent Subluxation or Lateral Instability, Knee
The Department of Veterans Affairs rates Recurrent Subluxation or Lateral Instability, Knee under 38 CFR Book C (Diagnostic Code 5257). Compensation ratings are determined by the severity of functional impairment and objective medical evidence.
Title 38 CFR Statutory Rating Schedule
Source: eCFR Part 4| Rating | Required Diagnostic Symptoms & Severity |
|---|---|
| 30% | Severe recurrent subluxation or lateral instability. |
| 20% | Moderate recurrent subluxation or lateral instability. |
| 10% | Slight recurrent subluxation or lateral instability. |
Statutory Secondary Service Connections for Recurrent Subluxation or Lateral Instability, Knee
Contralateral Knee Osteoarthritis (DC 5260)
Confidence: 90%
Favoring a service-connected injured knee shifts body weight to the uninjured knee, causing overcompensation arthritis.
Lumbar Spine Strain (DC 5237)
Confidence: 85%
Altered walking gait from knee stiffness transmits abnormal impact shock up into the lumbar spine.
Ipsilateral Hip Bursitis (DC 5250)
Confidence: 80%
Knee joint stiffness causes hip abductor overwork, leading to trochanteric bursitis.
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