VA Disability Rating for Elbow Condition (Limited Motion)
Rated by limitation of forearm flexion. Up to 50% (dominant) for severe restriction.
Elbow limitation of forearm flexion (DC 5206) is the most common elbow rating. Higher tiers require significant restriction — flexion limited to 90° = 20%, 70° = 30%, 55° = 40%, 45° = 50% (dominant).
Rating tiers + 2026 monthly compensation
| Rating | Monthly (2026, single vet) | Criteria (summary) |
|---|---|---|
| 10% | $180.42 | Forearm flexion limited to 100° (dominant or minor). |
| 20% | $356.66 | Forearm flexion limited to 90° (dominant or minor). |
| 30% | $552.47 | Forearm flexion limited to 70° (dominant or minor). |
| 40% | $795.84 | Forearm flexion limited to 55° (dominant: 40%; minor: 30%). |
| 50% | $1,132.90 | Forearm flexion limited to 45° (dominant: 50%; minor: 40%). |
Dollar amounts reflect the 2.5% COLA effective 2025-12-01 for single veterans with no dependents. Add spouse + children for 30%+ ratings via the estimator.
What this means in dollars
- →At 10%: $180.42/mo · $2,165/year, tax-free
- →At 20%: $356.66/mo · $4,280/year, tax-free
- →At 30%: $552.47/mo · $6,630/year, tax-free
- →At 40%: $795.84/mo · $9,550/year, tax-free
- →At 50%: $1,132.90/mo · $13,595/year, tax-free
How to get rated for elbow condition (limited motion)
- Goniometer measurement of forearm flexion (normal 0–145°).
- Pain on motion + § 4.59 secures minimum 10%.
- If you also have extension limitation, file separately under DC 5207.
Common secondary conditions
- +Wrist strain (compensation)
- +Shoulder strain (compensation)
File these separately. VA rates each service-connected condition independently and combines them via § 4.25.
Nexus tips
- Repetitive-use jobs (mechanic, infantry, gunner) commonly cause lateral epicondylitis.
- In-service injury notes (especially upper-extremity strain documentation) anchor the nexus.
Frequently asked
I have tennis elbow but full range of motion. Can I still be rated?
Yes — painful motion under § 4.59 + DeLuca entitles you to 10% even with full ROM, provided pain is objectively documented (grimacing, withdrawal, splinting).
Ready to act on this?
Get a full rating estimate across your conditions, or draft the nexus letter your doctor needs to sign.
Related conditions
This page summarizes public rating criteria from 38 CFR Part 4. It is not legal or medical advice. Actual VA ratings depend on C&P exam findings, records review, and rater discretion.