Skip to main content

Evidence checklist

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

DC 526038 CFR § 4.71aMusculoskeletal

Evidence strength

Mark what you already have below and your evidence strength appears here.

Target
Saved locally
01

Specialist opinion

Highest value0 of 2 collected
Orthopedic evaluation with patellar tracking and range of motion assessmentCritical

Examination documenting anterior knee pain with activity (stairs, squatting, prolonged sitting), patellar compression test, patellar tilt/glide assessment, Q-angle measurement, and knee range of motion in degrees.

Private provider · independent opinion
Nexus opinion linking patellofemoral pain syndrome to service ("at least as likely as not")Critical

A medical opinion connecting your PFPS to military service, including running, marching, load-bearing activities, kneeling, or a specific in-service knee injury.

Private provider · independent opinion
02

Treatment records

0 of 3 collected
Imaging (X-ray patellar views; MRI showing cartilage changes)

Sunrise (axial) and merchant views documenting patellofemoral joint congruence angle and tilt. MRI documenting subchondral edema, cartilage softening, or patellar maltracking.

VA or private records · written request
Documentation of activity limitations (stairs, running, prolonged sitting)

Records documenting the specific activities that provoke pain and the degree to which patellofemoral symptoms limit daily function, work capacity, and recreational activities.

VA or private records · written request
Treatment records (physical therapy, bracing, taping, injections)

Records documenting quadriceps and VMO strengthening physical therapy, patellar taping (McConnell technique), knee brace or sleeve use, and any injection therapy.

VA or private records · written request
03

Lay statements

0 of 2 collected
Buddy statement from spouse, family, or fellow service member

A written statement from someone who can describe observable symptoms and how your condition affects daily life.

You or a witness · VA Form 21-4138 or 21-10210How to get this →
Personal statement describing symptoms and functional impact

Your own written account of how this condition affects your daily activities, work, and relationships. Describe your worst days.

You or a witness · VA Form 21-4138 or 21-10210How to get this →
04

Benefits questionnaire

0 of 1 collected
Completed DBQ Knee and Lower Leg ConditionsCritical

Standardized form capturing knee range of motion, patellofemoral findings, pain, and functional limitations.

Provider-completed · VA DBQ formHow to get this →
05

Service records

0 of 1 collected
Service treatment records (STRs)Critical

Military medical records showing in-service treatment, complaints, or injuries related to this condition.

NPRC / milConnect · SF-180

What you mark here is saved in this browser, on this device only — not to an account. Changing the target rating shows different items, but never loses what you have already marked.