Knee arthritis is one of the most common service-connected disabilities among U.S. veterans. Years of physical training, heavy gear, repeated stress, and combat-related injuries often leave lasting damage to the knee joint. For many veterans, this condition leads to chronic pain, reduced mobility, and difficulty maintaining employment or daily independence.
If knee arthritis affects your ability to walk, bend, stand, or work, you may be eligible for monthly VA disability compensation. In some cases, veterans can reach a 60% VA rating or higher, especially when instability, limited motion, or secondary conditions are properly documented.
This 2026 guide explains how the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs evaluates knee arthritis, how to service-connect your condition, and how to increase your total VA rating legally and effectively.
Understanding Knee Arthritis in Veterans
Knee arthritis occurs when cartilage in the knee joint deteriorates, causing bones to rub together. This results in pain, swelling, stiffness, weakness, and limited range of motion. Over time, symptoms often worsen, especially without proper treatment.
Veterans face a higher risk of knee arthritis due to:
- Repetitive marching, running, and jumping
- Carrying heavy equipment
- Training accidents and combat injuries
- Prior knee surgeries or fractures
“Knee arthritis rarely appears overnight. It usually develops after years of stress and joint trauma linked directly to military duties,” explained by Dr. Michael Reynolds, orthopedic specialist.
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The VA recognizes that arthritis can develop gradually and still qualify for compensation if service connection is proven.
How the VA Rates Knee Arthritis 2026 Rules Explained?
The VA does not assign a single rating just for “knee arthritis.” Instead, it evaluates the condition under different diagnostic codes (DCs) based on symptoms such as pain, instability, and limited motion.
Key VA Diagnostic Codes for Knee Arthritis
| Diagnostic Code | Condition Evaluated | Possible Rating |
|---|---|---|
| DC 5003 | Degenerative arthritis (X-ray confirmed) | 10% – 20% |
| DC 5010 | Post-traumatic arthritis | 10% – 20% |
| DC 5257 | Knee instability or subluxation | 10% – 30% |
| DC 5260 | Limitation of knee flexion | 0% – 30% |
| DC 5261 | Limitation of knee extension | 0% – 50% |
| DC 5256 | Ankylosis of the knee | 30% – 60% |
Many veterans are eligible for multiple ratings at the same time, as long as symptoms are distinct and properly documented.
“Instability, painful motion, and limited movement are often rated separately, which can significantly raise a veteran’s combined percentage,” said by James Holloway, VA-accredited claims agent.
VA Rating Criteria: Range of Motion and Pain
Limitation of Flexion (DC 5260)
| Flexion Limited To | VA Rating |
|---|---|
| 15° | 30% |
| 30° | 20% |
| 45° | 10% |
| 60° | 0% |
Limitation of Extension (DC 5261)
| Extension Limited To | VA Rating |
|---|---|
| 45° | 50% |
| 30° | 40% |
| 20° | 30% |
| 15° | 20% |
| 10° | 10% |
| 5° | 0% |
Even when range of motion appears near normal, painful motion alone can qualify for a minimum 10% rating if confirmed during a VA exam.
“Pain during movement counts as functional loss, even if the veteran can technically move the joint,” explained by Laura Bennett, former VA rating specialist.
Eligibility Rules: Proving Service Connection
To receive compensation, knee arthritis must be service-connected. The VA allows two primary pathways.
Direct Service Connection
You must show:
- A current medical diagnosis of knee arthritis
- An in-service injury, illness, or aggravating event
- A medical nexus linking the condition to service
“Without a clear medical nexus, even strong claims are often denied,” said by Mark Ellis, veterans disability attorney.
Secondary Service Connection
Knee arthritis may also develop due to another service-connected condition, such as:
- Hip or ankle injuries
- Back conditions affecting gait
- Leg length discrepancies
When approved, the knee arthritis receives its own separate rating, increasing total compensation.
VA Secondary Conditions Linked to Knee Arthritis
Secondary conditions occur when knee arthritis causes or worsens other health problems.
| Secondary Condition | Connection to Knee Arthritis |
|---|---|
| Hip or back pain | Altered walking mechanics |
| Plantar fasciitis | Weight redistribution |
| Depression or anxiety | Chronic pain impact |
| GERD or IBS | Long-term medication use |
Each approved secondary condition can increase your overall VA rating.
VA Disability Payment Amounts and Processing (2026)
VA disability compensation is paid monthly and is tax-free.
Estimated Monthly VA Compensation
| Combined Rating | Monthly Payment (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| 10% | $171 |
| 30% | $524 |
| 50% | $1,075 |
| 60% | $1,361 |
| 80% | $1,995 |
Amounts increase if you have dependents or qualify for the bilateral factor.
“Many veterans underestimate how much compensation grows once multiple knee-related ratings are combined,” said by Daniel Ortiz, veteran benefits consultant.
Recent VA Updates Affecting Knee Arthritis Claims
- 2024–2025: VA clarified that instability and arthritis can be rated separately
- 2026: Increased recognition of flare-ups and functional loss due to pain
- Ongoing: Greater scrutiny of C&P exam accuracy and examiner notes
These changes have made it easier for veterans to reach 60% or higher combined ratings.
Why This Matters?
Knee arthritis can limit employment, independence, and long-term health. A proper VA rating can unlock:
- Monthly tax-free income
- Access to VA healthcare
- Eligibility for TDIU if unable to work
- Higher compensation through secondary claims
Failing to file correctly or underreporting symptoms can cost veterans tens of thousands of dollars over time.
FAQs
How does the VA rate knee arthritis?
The VA uses multiple diagnostic codes based on pain, motion loss, and instability.
What is the highest VA rating for knee arthritis?
The maximum standard rating is 60%, with a temporary 100% after knee replacement surgery.
Can both knees be rated separately?
Yes. The VA applies the bilateral factor when both knees are service-connected.
Is a C&P exam required?
Most claims require a compensation and pension exam to assess severity.
Can knee pain alone qualify for VA disability?
Yes, if it causes functional impairment and is medically documented.
