DC 5260 — Leg, limitation of flexion
Also known as: knee pain, Leg, limited knee flexion, limited knee bending, cant bend knee, knee flexion
These are commonly claimed secondary connections linked to this primary disability. Use them as a screening tool for conversations with your doctor, VSO, or VA-accredited attorney.
Leg, limitation of flexion → Degenerative arthritis, other than post-traumatic
How the connection is commonly explained
Chronic knee dysfunction can accelerate degenerative arthritis.
Filing tip
Ask your doctor to clearly state that the secondary condition is at least as likely as not caused or aggravated by the primary service-connected condition. For this pairing, ask the provider to explain how leg, limitation of flexion led to or worsened degenerative arthritis, other than post-traumatic.
Leg, limitation of flexion → Knee, other impairment
How the connection is commonly explained
Favoring one knee can overload the opposite knee over time.
Filing tip
Ask your doctor to clearly state that the secondary condition is at least as likely as not caused or aggravated by the primary service-connected condition. For this pairing, ask the provider to explain how leg, limitation of flexion led to or worsened knee, other impairment.
Leg, limitation of flexion → Lumbosacral or cervical strain
How the connection is commonly explained
Limitation of knee flexion often leads to limping and abnormal mechanics that strain the lower back.
Filing tip
Ask your doctor to clearly state that the secondary condition is at least as likely as not caused or aggravated by the primary service-connected condition. For this pairing, ask the provider to explain how leg, limitation of flexion led to or worsened lumbosacral or cervical strain.
Leg, limitation of flexion → Thigh, limitation of flexion
How the connection is commonly explained
Compensating for reduced knee flexion transfers load to the hips.
Filing tip
Ask your doctor to clearly state that the secondary condition is at least as likely as not caused or aggravated by the primary service-connected condition. For this pairing, ask the provider to explain how leg, limitation of flexion led to or worsened thigh, limitation of flexion.
Leg, limitation of flexion → Ankle, limited motion
How the connection is commonly explained
Compensation for limited knee motion can place extra stress on the ankle.
Filing tip
A nexus letter and treatment records explaining the progression from the primary condition to the secondary condition can make a big difference. For this pairing, ask the provider to explain how leg, limitation of flexion led to or worsened ankle, limited motion.
Leg, limitation of flexion → Flatfoot, acquired
How the connection is commonly explained
Abnormal walking mechanics from limited knee motion can stress the feet.
Filing tip
A nexus letter and treatment records explaining the progression from the primary condition to the secondary condition can make a big difference. For this pairing, ask the provider to explain how leg, limitation of flexion led to or worsened flatfoot, acquired.
Leg, limitation of flexion → Major depressive disorder
How the connection is commonly explained
Reduced mobility and long-term pain commonly contribute to depression.
Filing tip
A nexus letter and treatment records explaining the progression from the primary condition to the secondary condition can make a big difference. For this pairing, ask the provider to explain how leg, limitation of flexion led to or worsened major depressive disorder.
How to File a Secondary Claim
Disclaimer: Secondary connections shown are based on commonly established medical links. Individual claims require medical evidence. Consult a VSO or VA-accredited attorney.