Medial Epicondylitis (Golfer's Elbow)

DC 5206Musculoskeletal38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5206

Inflammation and pain at the medial epicondyle of the elbow, where the forearm flexor tendons attach. Common in service members from repetitive gripping, lifting, and carrying activities. The VA rates medial epicondylitis based on limitation of forearm flexion.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition primarily based on range-of-motion measurements. During your C&P exam, the examiner will use a goniometer to measure how far you can move the affected joint. Pain, flare-ups, and repetitive-use limitations also factor into the final rating.

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 medial epicondylitis with limitation of forearm flexion to 45 degrees on the dominant arm. This represents the most severe limitation of flexion, with the elbow nearly locked in extension.

What the VA looks for

Forearm flexion limited to 45 degrees or less
Dominant arm affected
Elbow nearly locked in extension
Severe occupational and daily living impairment

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not specifying whether the dominant (major) or non-dominant (minor) arm is affected — the dominant arm receives higher ratings at 30% and above.
⚠Not documenting pain during repetitive motion and grip strength testing — DeLuca factors (pain, fatigue, weakness, incoordination) during repetitive use can support additional functional loss.
⚠Being rated only under DC 5003 (arthritis) when limitation of flexion is compensable — insist on rating under the specific limitation of motion code for a potentially higher evaluation.
⚠Not requesting the examiner to test grip strength and document weakness — reduced grip strength directly supports functional impairment from medial epicondylitis.

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…

Medial Epicondylitis (Golfer's Elbow)

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 5206

Rating range

0% – 50%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have medial epicondylitis with limitation of forearm flexion to 45 degrees on the dominant arm. This represents the most severe limitation of flexion, with the elbow nearly locked in extension.

What the VA looks for

Forearm flexion limited to 45 degrees or less
Dominant arm affected
Elbow nearly locked in extension
Severe occupational and daily living impairment

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not specifying whether the dominant (major) or non-dominant (minor) arm is affected — the dominant arm receives higher ratings at 30% and above.

⚠Not documenting pain during repetitive motion and grip strength testing — DeLuca factors (pain, fatigue, weakness, incoordination) during repetitive use can support additional functional loss.

⚠Being rated only under DC 5003 (arthritis) when limitation of flexion is compensable — insist on rating under the specific limitation of motion code for a potentially higher evaluation.

⚠Not requesting the examiner to test grip strength and document weakness — reduced grip strength directly supports functional impairment from medial epicondylitis.