DC 5261 — Leg, limitation of extension of
Also known as: knee pain, Leg, limited knee extension, cant straighten knee, knee extension, locked knee
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 extension of → Degenerative arthritis, other than post-traumatic
How the connection is commonly explained
Chronic knee dysfunction can lead to degenerative arthritis 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 extension led to or worsened degenerative arthritis, other than post-traumatic.
Leg, limitation of extension of → Knee, other impairment of
How the connection is commonly explained
Favoring one knee often overloads the opposite knee.
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 extension led to or worsened knee, other impairment.
Leg, limitation of extension of → Lumbosacral or cervical strain
How the connection is commonly explained
Limitation of knee extension commonly causes 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 extension led to or worsened lumbosacral or cervical strain.
Leg, limitation of extension of → Thigh, limitation of flexion of
How the connection is commonly explained
Compensating for poor knee extension shifts 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 extension led to or worsened thigh, limitation of flexion.
Leg, limitation of extension of → Ankle, limited motion of
How the connection is commonly explained
Changes in gait from knee dysfunction commonly 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 extension led to or worsened ankle, limited motion.
Leg, limitation of extension of → Flatfoot, acquired
How the connection is commonly explained
Abnormal gait from limited knee extension can alter foot mechanics.
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 extension led to or worsened flatfoot, acquired.
Leg, limitation of extension of → Major depressive disorder
How the connection is commonly explained
Chronic pain and reduced function 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 extension 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.