Forearm Limitation of Flexion

DC 5206Musculoskeletal38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5206

Limited ability to bend (flex) the elbow, measured by how far the forearm can flex toward the upper arm. Normal elbow flexion is from 0 degrees (fully straight) to 145 degrees (fully bent). The VA rates this based on the point at which flexion is limited, with separate ratings for the dominant and non-dominant arm.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on objective clinical measurements and test results. The examiner will use standardized tests or lab values to determine the severity of your condition rather than relying primarily on subjective symptom reports.

Diagnostic code

DC 5206

Rating range

0% – 50%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5206. This guide presents a plain-language summary and is not a substitute for the full regulatory text. Always consult a VSO or VA-accredited attorney for case-specific advice.

Rating Levels

You have forearm flexion limited to 45 degrees on your non-dominant side or 55 degrees on your dominant side. The elbow is nearly straight with minimal bending ability.

What the VA looks for

Elbow flexion limited to 45-55 degrees
Near-total loss of elbow bending function
Complete dependence on opposite arm for daily activities
Major functional impairment documented

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting dominant hand — ratings differ for the dominant (major) vs. non-dominant (minor) arm. Always confirm and document which arm is dominant.
⚠Not reporting pain on motion — even if your measured flexion reaches a certain degree, if it is painful, the examiner should document at what degree pain begins. This may qualify you for a higher rating under DeLuca and 38 CFR 4.59.
⚠Forgetting repetitive use testing — the examiner should test your flexion after repetitive use (3 repetitions minimum) and document any additional loss of motion.
⚠Not combining with extension limitation — if you also have limited extension (DC 5207), you can receive separate ratings for both, as they represent different functional losses.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Elbow and Forearm Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

Understand what the VA looks for at each rating level — loading conditions…

Forearm Limitation of Flexion

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 5206

Rating range

0% – 50%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have forearm flexion limited to 45 degrees on your non-dominant side or 55 degrees on your dominant side. The elbow is nearly straight with minimal bending ability.

What the VA looks for

Elbow flexion limited to 45-55 degrees
Near-total loss of elbow bending function
Complete dependence on opposite arm for daily activities
Major functional impairment documented

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting dominant hand — ratings differ for the dominant (major) vs. non-dominant (minor) arm. Always confirm and document which arm is dominant.

⚠Not reporting pain on motion — even if your measured flexion reaches a certain degree, if it is painful, the examiner should document at what degree pain begins. This may qualify you for a higher rating under DeLuca and 38 CFR 4.59.

⚠Forgetting repetitive use testing — the examiner should test your flexion after repetitive use (3 repetitions minimum) and document any additional loss of motion.

⚠Not combining with extension limitation — if you also have limited extension (DC 5207), you can receive separate ratings for both, as they represent different functional losses.