Knee Pain C&P Exam Checklist

Diagnostic Code 5260

Before the Exam

Review your medical records and know your diagnosis, diagnostic code, and current treatment plan Write a detailed personal statement describing how your condition affects your daily life, work, and relationships Note typical symptoms and how they vary, including flare-up frequency, duration, and effects on daily activities List all medications you take for this condition and their side effects Prepare a timeline of your condition from onset through current symptoms Submit new non-VA medical records before the appointment; bringing them to the exam does not submit them to VA Document which knee (or both) is affected Note instability episodes: giving way, locking, catching Track how far you can walk before pain stops you Document any knee brace or assistive device (cane, crutches, walker) and whether a medical provider prescribed it for walking

What to Bring

During the Exam

After the Exam

Request your final exam report using VA Form 20-10206; VA provides online, mail, and in-person request options Review the report for errors or omissions as soon as possible If the examiner missed something important, file a statement noting the error Continue all medical treatment — gaps in treatment can hurt your claim Check your claim status regularly at VA.gov

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or medical advice. For personalized guidance, consult a VA-accredited VSO, attorney, or claims agent.