VA Disability Rating for Forearm Limitation of Flexion
Diagnostic Code 5206 · 38 CFR §4.71a
What Is It?
DC 5206 rates limitation of elbow flexion, which is your ability to bend your elbow and bring your hand toward your shoulder. Normal elbow flexion is about 145 degrees. When flexion is limited due to arthritis, fracture residuals, or other conditions, it becomes difficult to feed yourself, reach your face, and perform many daily tasks. The rating depends on how much flexion you have lost and whether the affected arm is your dominant or non-dominant side. Veterans commonly develop limited elbow flexion from fractures, dislocations, burns, and blast injuries during service.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 50% | Flexion limited to 45 degrees in the dominant arm |
| 40% | Flexion limited to 45 degrees in the non-dominant arm, or to 55 degrees in the dominant arm |
| 30% | Flexion limited to 70 degrees in the dominant arm, or to 55 degrees in the non-dominant arm |
| 20% | Flexion limited to 90 degrees in the dominant arm, or to 70 degrees in the non-dominant arm |
| 10% | Flexion limited to 100 degrees in either arm |
| 0% | Flexion limited to 110 degrees in either arm |
Evidence Needed
- Range of motion measurements using a goniometer showing elbow flexion
- Medical records documenting the elbow condition connected to service
- Imaging of the elbow showing structural causes of motion loss
- Documentation of which arm is dominant
- Records of pain with motion and functional limitations
C&P Exam Tips
- Make sure the examiner uses a goniometer for precise measurements
- Ask that measurements be taken after repetitive use to capture additional loss
- Report pain during flexion and at what degree it begins
- Confirm which arm is your dominant arm
- Describe your worst days when the elbow is most stiff
How to File
File under DC 5206 for limitation of elbow flexion. Precise goniometer measurements are essential since each degree of motion loss can change the rating percentage. Make sure your dominant arm is documented as ratings differ between dominant and non-dominant sides.
Common Mistakes
Not insisting on goniometer measurements for precision Not reporting the worst range of motion, such as during flare-ups Failing to document dominant arm status Not requesting measurement after repetitive motion which often shows additional loss
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get rated for both limited flexion and limited extension of the same elbow?
Yes, if you have limited flexion under DC 5206 and limited extension under DC 5207 in the same elbow, you can receive separate ratings for each. This is one of the few situations where the VA rates the same joint under two codes simultaneously.
What if my elbow flexion is worse on some days than others?
Report your worst functional level to the examiner. VA is required to consider flare-ups and additional functional loss during them. If your flexion is normally 100 degrees but drops to 80 degrees during flare-ups, both measurements should be documented.