C&P Exam Guide
Knee C&P Exam
The examiner will measure knee range of motion, test for instability, and assess functional limitations.
DBQ: Knee and Lower Leg Conditions DBQ
Exam type: In-person (required for ROM testing)
Typical duration: 30-45 minutes
What the Examiner Looks For
Range of motion (flexion and extension), instability tests, pain on motion, crepitus, functional loss, and flare-ups.
General Tips for Every C&P Exam
📝Be honest — do not exaggerate or minimize.
📝Describe your WORST days, not your best.
📝Focus on how the condition impacts your daily life and ability to work.
📝Keep a symptom journal or diary before your exam.
📝Review the DBQ for your condition beforehand.
📝Arrive early and bring all relevant records.
📝You can bring a support person (spouse, friend).
📝The exam is for evaluation, not treatment — do not expect prescriptions.
📝The examiner is not your doctor — they report findings to the VA.
📝If you disagree with the exam results, you can request a new exam.
✅ DO
⚠️ Critical tip
STOP at pain during ROM testing — same rule as back
⚠️ Critical tip
If your knee gives out, buckles, or is unstable — TELL the examiner. Instability can earn a SEPARATE rating on top of ROM limitation
Describe clicking, popping, grinding, or locking
Wear your knee brace if you use one
Mention how knee pain affects walking, stairs, standing, exercise
Describe flare-ups in detail
❌ DON'T
Don't push through pain during ROM testing
Don't forget to mention instability — this is a separate rating category
Don't go without your brace if you normally wear one
📋 BRING
X-rays or MRI results
Physical therapy records
Your knee brace (wear it)
🔍 EXPECT
Goniometer ROM testing (flexion and extension)
Stability tests (drawer test, Lachman test)
Repetitive motion testing
The examiner may also test your other knee for comparison
This information is for educational purposes only. It is not legal or medical advice. Every veteran's situation is unique. Consider consulting with a Veterans Service Organization (VSO) or VA-accredited attorney for personalized guidance.