Popliteal (Baker's) Cyst

DC 5099-5020Musculoskeletal38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5099-5020

A fluid-filled cyst that forms behind the knee, causing swelling, tightness, and pain. Baker's cysts are often associated with knee injuries or arthritis. The VA rates this condition by analogy to synovitis based on how it limits your knee function.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on how much it affects your ability to work and carry out daily activities. The examiner will focus on the functional limitations your condition causes, not just the diagnosis itself.

Diagnostic code

DC 5099-5020

Rating range

10% – 20%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5099-5020. 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 large or recurrent Baker's cyst that causes moderate limitation of knee motion and function. The cyst may have ruptured in the past, and you have ongoing swelling and difficulty with prolonged walking or standing.

What the VA looks for

Large or recurrent cyst documented on imaging
Moderate limitation of knee motion
History of cyst rupture or aspiration
Recurrent knee effusion
Difficulty with prolonged walking or standing

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting imaging (ultrasound or MRI) to document the cyst — a Baker's cyst must be confirmed on imaging rather than just physical examination.
⚠Not documenting the underlying knee condition — Baker's cysts are usually caused by meniscus tears, arthritis, or other knee pathology that should also be claimed.
⚠Not reporting how the cyst affects your daily function — describe difficulty with bending, kneeling, walking, and other activities in detail.
⚠Not seeking medical care during flare-ups or ruptures — documenting episodes when the cyst enlarges, ruptures, or causes increased symptoms is important for establishing severity.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Knee and Lower Leg Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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

Popliteal (Baker's) Cyst

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 5099-5020

Rating range

10% – 20%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

What the VA looks for

Large or recurrent cyst documented on imaging
Moderate limitation of knee motion
History of cyst rupture or aspiration
Recurrent knee effusion
Difficulty with prolonged walking or standing

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting imaging (ultrasound or MRI) to document the cyst — a Baker's cyst must be confirmed on imaging rather than just physical examination.

⚠Not documenting the underlying knee condition — Baker's cysts are usually caused by meniscus tears, arthritis, or other knee pathology that should also be claimed.

⚠Not reporting how the cyst affects your daily function — describe difficulty with bending, kneeling, walking, and other activities in detail.

⚠Not seeking medical care during flare-ups or ruptures — documenting episodes when the cyst enlarges, ruptures, or causes increased symptoms is important for establishing severity.