Meniscus Tear

DC 5259Musculoskeletal38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5259

A tear in the rubbery cartilage cushion in your knee that acts as a shock absorber between the shinbone and thighbone. The VA rates meniscus tears based on whether the cartilage has been removed (DC 5259) or is dislocated with symptoms (DC 5258).

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on the type and intensity of treatment you require. Higher ratings correspond to more aggressive treatment regimens, such as daily medication, insulin dependence, or the need for ongoing medical management.

Diagnostic code

DC 5259

Rating range

10% – 20%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5259. 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 a dislocated semilunar cartilage (meniscus) with frequent episodes of locking, pain, and effusion (fluid buildup) in the joint. This is rated under DC 5258.

What the VA looks for

MRI showing meniscus tear or dislocation
Frequent episodes of knee locking
Knee pain on weight bearing and movement
Joint effusion (swelling/fluid) documented

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not understanding the difference between DC 5259 (removal, max 10%) and DC 5258 (dislocated with symptoms, 20%) — make sure your records show locking, pain, and effusion if applicable.
⚠Not documenting knee locking episodes — the 20% rating under DC 5258 specifically requires frequent locking. Keep a log of when your knee locks up.
⚠Not filing for knee instability (DC 5257) separately — if your knee gives way or is unstable, you may be entitled to a separate rating in addition to the meniscus rating.
⚠Not filing for limitation of motion separately — knee flexion (DC 5260) and extension (DC 5261) limitations can be rated in addition to meniscus problems.
⚠Not getting an MRI to confirm the tear — imaging evidence is critical for establishing the diagnosis.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Knee and Lower Leg Conditions

View evidence checklist →C&P exam prep guide →See secondary conditions →

Related Conditions

Conditions commonly associated with Meniscus Tear or rated under the same body system.

Lumbar Strain (Low Back Pain)

DC 5237·Musculoskeletal

Cervical Strain (Neck Pain)

DC 5237·Musculoskeletal

Knee Limitation of Flexion

DC 5260·Musculoskeletal

Knee Limitation of Extension

DC 5261·Musculoskeletal

Knee Instability (Subluxation)

DC 5257·Musculoskeletal

Plantar Fasciitis (Foot Pain)

DC 5276·Musculoskeletal

Degenerative Arthritis (Osteoarthritis)

DC 5003·Musculoskeletal

Fibromyalgia

DC 5025·Musculoskeletal

Condition Rating Guides

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

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 5259

Rating range

10% – 20%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have a dislocated semilunar cartilage (meniscus) with frequent episodes of locking, pain, and effusion (fluid buildup) in the joint. This is rated under DC 5258.

What the VA looks for

MRI showing meniscus tear or dislocation
Frequent episodes of knee locking
Knee pain on weight bearing and movement
Joint effusion (swelling/fluid) documented

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not understanding the difference between DC 5259 (removal, max 10%) and DC 5258 (dislocated with symptoms, 20%) — make sure your records show locking, pain, and effusion if applicable.

⚠Not documenting knee locking episodes — the 20% rating under DC 5258 specifically requires frequent locking. Keep a log of when your knee locks up.

⚠Not filing for knee instability (DC 5257) separately — if your knee gives way or is unstable, you may be entitled to a separate rating in addition to the meniscus rating.

⚠Not filing for limitation of motion separately — knee flexion (DC 5260) and extension (DC 5261) limitations can be rated in addition to meniscus problems.

⚠Not getting an MRI to confirm the tear — imaging evidence is critical for establishing the diagnosis.