Plain-language summaries explain the text; they do not decide whether any level applies.
30%
Official criteria
Recurrent subluxation or instability: unrepaired or failed repair of complete ligament tear causing persistent instability, and a medical provider prescribes both an assistive device (e.g., cane(s), crutch(es), walker) and bracing for ambulation; or patellar instability: a diagnosed condition involving the patellofemoral complex with recurrent instability after surgical repair that requires a prescription by a medical provider for a brace and either a cane or a walker.
Plain-language summary
The highest level requires the listed diagnosis/history and prescribed combination of support devices.
20%
Official criteria
Recurrent subluxation or instability: (a) sprain, incomplete ligament tear, or repaired complete ligament tear causing persistent instability, and a medical provider prescribes a brace and/or assistive device (e.g., cane(s), crutch(es), walker) for ambulation; or (b) unrepaired or failed repair of complete ligament tear causing persistent instability, and a medical provider prescribes either an assistive device (e.g., cane(s), crutch(es), walker) or bracing for ambulation; or patellar instability: a diagnosed condition involving the patellofemoral complex with recurrent instability after surgical repair that requires a prescription by a medical provider for one of the following: a brace, cane, or walker.
Plain-language summary
This level requires the schedule's specified instability path and prescription evidence.
10%
Official criteria
Recurrent subluxation or instability: sprain, incomplete ligament tear, or complete ligament tear (repaired, unrepaired, or failed repair) causing persistent instability, without a prescription from a medical provider for an assistive device (e.g., cane(s), crutch(es), walker) or bracing for ambulation; or patellar instability: a diagnosed condition involving the patellofemoral complex with recurrent instability (with or without history of surgical repair) that does not require a prescription from a medical provider for a brace, cane, or walker.
Plain-language summary
The lowest compensable level addresses qualifying recurrent instability without a device prescription.
Source record
38 CFR § 4.71a—Schedule of ratings, musculoskeletal system
38 CFR § 4.71a, DC 5257 · Effective Feb 7, 2021 · Reviewed Sep 11, 2026