Diagnostic code
Diagnostic Code 5207: Elbow. Limitation of Extension Rating Criteria
- CFR section
- 38 CFR § 4.71a
- Rating range
- 10% to 50%
- Rating levels
- 5
- Body system
- Musculoskeletal system
The VA rates Elbow. Limitation of Extension under diagnostic code 5207 in 38 CFR § 4.71a. The table below is the full set of rating criteria, from the schedule itself, with the evidence factors raters look for at each level.
DC 5207 rating criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 10% | Extension limited to 45-60 degrees What raters look for45-60 degrees |
| 20% | Extension limited to 75 degrees What raters look for75 degrees |
| 30% | Extension limited to 90 degrees (major) What raters look for90 degrees |
| 40% | Extension limited to 100 degrees (major) What raters look for100 degrees |
| 50% | Extension limited to 110 degrees (major) What raters look for110 degrees |
Condition guide
The rating criteria are only part of the picture for Elbow. The Elbow condition page covers service connection, common evidence problems, secondary conditions, and Board outcome patterns in depth.
What happens to Elbow appeals at the Board
Claim Raven's analysis of 609 decided Board of Veterans' Appeals cases with Elbow as the primary issue. The Elbow condition page has the full breakdown, including which evidence types are associated with better outcomes.
Method: outcomes are coded per case from the Board's published decisions, rolled up as granted (including partial grants), denied, or remanded, excluding dismissals. The dataset codes the condition on appeal, not the diagnostic code, so these numbers describe Elbow appeals generally rather than DC 5207 specifically. Board outcomes describe appealed claims, not initial decisions.
Frequently asked questions
What is VA diagnostic code 5207?
Diagnostic code 5207 is the VA rating schedule entry for Elbow. Limitation of Extension, found in 38 CFR § 4.71a. The VA assigns this code when it rates the condition and applies the criteria listed on this page.
What ratings are possible under DC 5207?
DC 5207 provides ratings of 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%. The percentage depends on which criteria your medical evidence documents, not on the diagnosis alone.
What does the highest rating under DC 5207 require?
The 50% rating for Elbow. Limitation of Extension requires: Extension limited to 110 degrees (major).