KNEE RANGE EXAM POSITIONS

[SDUSMC]

Title 38 has only one standard exam position for measuring knee extension/flexion, that is the sitting position. See TITLE 38 § 4.71 Plate II (the official version at GPO Website or the hard copy, not VA Website.) I see QTC measuring standing, sitting, laying down, or whatever they want. Each position can give different results (5 degrees, 10 degrees or whatever.) What is often done is the QTC 'examiner' picks the least favorable measurement for the Vet and submits that to VA. Most Vets do not even know they are being screwed. The BDQ does not even say what position to use, so even your own doctor can be using a less favorable (unauthorized) position. The VA Rater has no way to know (and may not even care) what position was used unless the examiner messes up and mentions it.  Has anyone ever noticed this and fought against said circumnavigation of Title 38?

[waccamawwild]

I have had C&P exams where they have tried to bend my knee beyond where it will bend. As soon as you feel pain in the movement you should tell them to stop and you can't bend it any further. The VA unfortunately bases their ratings on range of motion than the pain you feel, So don't let them bully you into a lower rating. Remember you can always request an increase later if your condition worsens.

[Andyman73]

I went through that this past spring, increase exam.  He checked the ROM, but ignored any and all comments for stiffness, locking, looseness and giving out.  The x-rays did show increased degeneration of my knees.  In the end they separated the bilateral knees to each individual, but kept the bilateral pain rating.