Loss of Use - Forearm

DC 5205 Elbow & Forearm

Loss of Use - Forearm is a VA-ratable condition under diagnostic code 5205 in the Elbow & Forearm category. Maximum rating: 60%.

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

Rating	Criteria
60%	Unfavorable, at an angle of less than 50 degrees, or with complete loss of supination or pronation (major extremity)
50%	Unfavorable, at an angle of less than 50 degrees, or with complete loss of supination or pronation (minor extremity)
50%	Intermediate, at an angle of more than 90 degrees, or between 70 and 50 degrees (major extremity)
40%	Intermediate, at an angle of more than 90 degrees, or between 70 and 50 degrees (minor extremity)
40%	Favorable, at an angle between 90 and 70 degrees (major extremity)
30%	Favorable, at an angle between 90 and 70 degrees (minor extremity)

Per 38 CFR 4.71a DC 5205.

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 5205 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