Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

DC 5260Musculoskeletal38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5260

Pain around or behind the kneecap that gets worse when you sit for long periods, climb stairs, squat, or kneel. The VA rates patellofemoral pain syndrome under the knee flexion code, based on how much your ability to bend your knee is limited.

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 5260

Rating range

0% – 30%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5260. 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

Your knee flexion (bending) is limited to 15 degrees. This is a severe limitation — you can barely bend your knee. This is the maximum rating under the knee flexion code.

What the VA looks for

Knee flexion limited to 15 degrees
Severe functional limitation of the knee
Unable to perform most activities requiring knee bending
Significant impact on walking, sitting, and daily self-care

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting separate ratings for flexion and extension — if your knee also has limited extension (straightening), you can receive a separate rating under DC 5261 in addition to the flexion rating under DC 5260.
⚠Not reporting instability — if your knee gives way or feels unstable, this can qualify for a separate rating under DC 5257 for subluxation or lateral instability, on top of your range of motion rating.
⚠Not describing pain during repetitive use — the C&P examiner should test your knee after repetitive bending. Additional loss of motion after repetitive use supports a higher rating under DeLuca factors.
⚠Not connecting patellofemoral syndrome to military activities — running, rucking, jumping, kneeling, and squatting during service are common causes. Make sure your service records document these activities.
⚠Not reporting flare-ups — if your knee is worse on some days than others, describe your worst days in detail. The examiner should estimate the additional functional loss during flare-ups.

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 Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome 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 5260

Rating range

0% – 30%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

Your knee flexion (bending) is limited to 15 degrees. This is a severe limitation — you can barely bend your knee. This is the maximum rating under the knee flexion code.

What the VA looks for

Knee flexion limited to 15 degrees
Severe functional limitation of the knee
Unable to perform most activities requiring knee bending
Significant impact on walking, sitting, and daily self-care

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting separate ratings for flexion and extension — if your knee also has limited extension (straightening), you can receive a separate rating under DC 5261 in addition to the flexion rating under DC 5260.

⚠Not reporting instability — if your knee gives way or feels unstable, this can qualify for a separate rating under DC 5257 for subluxation or lateral instability, on top of your range of motion rating.

⚠Not describing pain during repetitive use — the C&P examiner should test your knee after repetitive bending. Additional loss of motion after repetitive use supports a higher rating under DeLuca factors.

⚠Not connecting patellofemoral syndrome to military activities — running, rucking, jumping, kneeling, and squatting during service are common causes. Make sure your service records document these activities.

⚠Not reporting flare-ups — if your knee is worse on some days than others, describe your worst days in detail. The examiner should estimate the additional functional loss during flare-ups.