Elbow, other impairment

DC 5209 Elbow & Forearm

Elbow, other impairment is a VA-ratable condition under diagnostic code 5209 in the Elbow & Forearm category. Maximum rating: 60%.

Source: 38 CFR § 4.71 - Measurement of ankylosis and joint motion

Rating	Criteria
60%	Flail joint (major extremity)
50%	Flail joint (minor extremity)
20%	Joint fracture with marked cubitus varus or cubitus valgus deformity, or with ununited fracture of head of radius

Per 38 CFR 4.71a DC 5209. Only two rating levels: flail joint (60%/50%) or fracture with deformity (20%).

Filing Tips

Pro Tip: The VA won't connect the dots for you. That's your job. Build the paper trail before you file.

Gather medical evidence showing a current diagnosis of this condition.

Document in-service events, injuries, or exposures that caused or aggravated this condition.

Consider a nexus letter from a medical professional linking your condition to service.

Review the rating criteria for DC 5209 to understand what symptoms warrant higher ratings.

Above insertion of pronator teres

DC 5123

Amputation - Above Middle of Forearm

DC 5123

Amputation - Below Middle of Forearm

DC 5124

Ankylosis - Elbow

DC 5205

Ankylosis - Forearm

DC 5213

Below insertion of pronator teres

DC 5124

Dislocation of Elbow

DC 5209

Elbow, ankylosis

DC 5205