DC 5207 · 38 CFR 4.71a
Forearm, Limitation of Extension C&P Exam Prep
To accurately document the degree of elbow/forearm extension limitation and associated functional loss for VA disability rating purposes under 38 CFR 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5207.
- Format:
- Interview + Physical
- Typical duration:
- 30-45 minutes
- DBQ form:
- Elbow_and_Forearm (Elbow_and_Forearm)
- Examiner:
- Physician or Physician Assistant
What the examiner evaluates
- Active range of motion (ROM) for elbow flexion and extension
- Passive range of motion for elbow flexion and extension
- Forearm pronation and supination active and passive ROM
- Whether pain occurs on motion and at what point in the arc
- Functional loss from pain, fatigue, weakness, and incoordination
- Additional ROM loss with repetitive use (DeLuca factors)
- Flare-up frequency, duration, and additional functional loss during flare-ups
- Presence of ankylosis, deformity, cubitus valgus/varus, or instability
- Muscle atrophy, tenderness, crepitation, and swelling
- Assistive device use
- Surgical history including total elbow arthroplasty or arthroscopic surgery
- Impact on occupational and daily functional activities
Exam is conducted in-person with physical range of motion testing using a goniometer. Weight-bearing and non-weight-bearing ROM measurements may both be recorded for the upper extremity per Correia requirements. Bring any braces or assistive devices you actually use.
Measurements and tests
Active Elbow Extension ROM
What it measures: How far you can straighten your elbow under your own muscle power from a fully flexed position toward 0 degrees (full extension). Normal endpoint is 0 degrees.
What to expect: The examiner will ask you to straighten your arm as far as you can. They will measure the angle at which your arm stops extending. Report any pain immediately when it begins during the motion. If your arm cannot reach 0 degrees, that gap is your extension limitation.
Critical thresholds
- Extension limited to 110- 50% dominant / 40% non-dominant arm
- Extension limited to 100- 40% dominant / 30% non-dominant arm
- Extension limited to 90- 30% dominant / 20% non-dominant arm
- Extension limited to 75- 20% dominant / 20% non-dominant arm
- Extension limited to 60- 10% dominant / 10% non-dominant arm
- Extension limited to 45- 10% dominant / 10% non-dominant arm
Tips
- Move only as far as you actually can without pushing through severe pain
- Say 'stop' or 'that's as far as I can go' so the examiner records the true endpoint
- Do not perform extra stretches or warm up before the exam - your baseline ROM matters
- If extension is also limited by pain before the mechanical endpoint, report that precisely
- Perform the motion at your typical daily pace, not faster or slower
Pain considerations: Inform the examiner of the exact degree at which pain begins during extension, the character of the pain (sharp, burning, aching), and whether pain prevents further motion. Under DeLuca v. Brown, pain on motion that limits function must be documented. The examiner should note whether painful motion causes functional loss equivalent to additional ROM limitation.
Passive Elbow Extension ROM
What it measures: How far the examiner can move your elbow toward full extension when your muscles are relaxed. Per Correia v. McDonald, passive ROM must also be documented.
What to expect: The examiner will gently straighten your arm while you relax your muscles. If passive ROM exceeds active ROM, this is clinically significant. Report pain during passive motion as well.
Critical thresholds
- Passive ROM equal to active ROM Confirms true structural limitation rather than pain inhibition alone
- Passive ROM greater than active ROM Suggests pain inhibition of active motion - still ratable under DeLuca
Tips
- Relax your arm completely during passive testing
- Report any pain or discomfort during passive motion
- Do not voluntarily resist the examiner's movement
Pain considerations: Pain during passive motion supports a finding of true pathological limitation. Inform the examiner if passive motion causes the same pain as active motion.
Repetitive Use / Flare-Up ROM Testing
What it measures: Whether extension ROM decreases or pain worsens after repeated use of the elbow, consistent with DeLuca v. Brown and Mitchell v. Shinseki requirements.
What to expect: The examiner should ask about how your ROM changes during or after repetitive activity. They may ask you to perform the motion multiple times. Your ROM should be documented after repetition if it changes.
Critical thresholds
- Any additional loss of ROM on repetition Can justify rating at a higher restriction level than single-measurement ROM
- Flare-up causes additional restriction Examiner should note estimated degrees of additional loss during flare-up
Tips
- Proactively report if your ROM is worse after working, driving, or carrying objects
- Describe how long flare-ups last and how frequently they occur
- Quantify additional loss if possible: 'During flare-ups my arm is about 20 degrees more restricted than today'
- Mention if you had a flare-up in the days before the exam or if today is a better or worse day than average
Pain considerations: Tell the examiner whether pain during flare-ups is severe enough to prevent use of the arm entirely for a period of time.
Forearm Pronation ROM
What it measures: Rotation of the forearm palm-down. Normal endpoint is 80 degrees. Separately ratable under DC 5213 if limited.
What to expect: The examiner will ask you to rotate your forearm with elbow bent at 90 degrees, turning your palm toward the floor. Limitation may be rated separately from extension limitation.
Critical thresholds
- Pronation beyond middle of arc (beyond 40-) Rated separately under DC 5213
- Pronation limited beyond last quarter of arc (approaching 80-) Lower rating under DC 5213
Tips
- Report if rotation causes pain, grinding, or clicking
- Note if pronation affects specific work or daily tasks
Pain considerations: Report pain during rotation immediately. Pronation is separately ratable from extension.
Forearm Supination ROM
What it measures: Rotation of the forearm palm-up. Normal endpoint is 85 degrees. Separately ratable under DC 5213 if limited.
What to expect: The examiner will ask you to rotate your forearm with elbow at 90 degrees, turning your palm upward toward the ceiling.
Critical thresholds
- Supination limited to 30 degrees or less Rated separately under DC 5213
- Complete loss of supination Maximum rating under supination criteria
Tips
- Report if you cannot fully turn your palm upward in daily activities
- Describe how supination loss affects tasks like carrying a tray, using a screwdriver, or opening jars
Pain considerations: Report pain at any point during supination ROM testing.
Rating criteria by percentage
50%
Extension limited to 110 degrees - dominant arm. This represents severe limitation where the elbow can extend only about 35 degrees from full flexion (145-), leaving a very restricted functional range.
Key symptoms
- Inability to straighten arm more than approximately one-third of full extension arc
- Severe functional limitation with overhead reaching, pushing, and object manipulation
- Significant pain on attempted extension
- Daily activities requiring arm extension severely compromised
From 38 CFR: 38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5207: Extension limited to 110- rates 50% for dominant arm, 40% for non-dominant arm.
40%
Extension limited to 100 degrees - dominant arm (30% non-dominant). Moderate-to-severe limitation leaving only 45 degrees of extension possible from full flexion.
Key symptoms
- Inability to straighten arm past a right-angle equivalent
- Difficulty with pushing, pulling, and lifting tasks
- Pain at end range of available extension
- Functional loss during sustained or repetitive arm use
From 38 CFR: 38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5207: Extension limited to 100- rates 40% dominant / 30% non-dominant.
30%
Extension limited to 90 degrees - dominant arm (20% non-dominant). Arm cannot straighten beyond a 90-degree angle.
Key symptoms
- Elbow locked at a right angle at maximum extension
- Significant daily functional limitation
- Pain with use
- Possible weakness on extension attempts
From 38 CFR: 38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5207: Extension limited to 90- rates 30% dominant / 20% non-dominant.
20%
Extension limited to 75 degrees - rated equally at 20% for both dominant and non-dominant arm. Elbow can extend past 90 degrees but stops short of full extension by 75 degrees.
Key symptoms
- Partial extension possible but limited
- Pain and stiffness at end range
- Functional limitation with tasks requiring full arm extension
From 38 CFR: 38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5207: Extension limited to 75- rates 20% for both dominant and non-dominant.
10%
Extension limited to 60 degrees or 45 degrees - rated at 10% for both arms. Mild-to-moderate limitation. Note: DC 5208 applies a single 20% rating if flexion is also limited to 100- with extension to 45-.
Key symptoms
- Limited but functional range of extension
- Mild pain at extremes of motion
- Possible stiffness after rest or inactivity
- Functional impact on sustained or repetitive arm use
From 38 CFR: 38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5207: Extension limited to 60- or 45- rates 10% for both arms. If flexion limited to 100- AND extension to 45-, consider DC 5208 for a single 20% evaluation.
Describing your symptoms accurately
Pain on Extension
How to describe it: Describe the location (lateral, medial, posterior elbow), onset during motion (at what degree), character (sharp, burning, aching, throbbing), severity on a 0-10 scale, and whether it stops you from completing full extension.
Example: On my worst days, I feel sharp pain on the outside of my elbow the moment I try to straighten my arm past about 90 degrees. The pain is an 8 out of 10 and forces me to stop immediately. I cannot push a door open or reach forward to grab something off a shelf without triggering this pain.
Examiner listens for: Specific degree at which pain begins, whether pain limits motion before the mechanical endpoint, pain at rest vs. motion, and whether pain represents functional loss.
Avoid: Do not say 'it's just a little stiff' if pain actually prevents you from completing the motion. Do not minimize pain by saying 'I can push through it' if doing so causes significant discomfort.
Flare-Ups
How to describe it: State how often flare-ups occur (daily, weekly, monthly), what triggers them (activity, weather, repetitive use), how long they last, how much additional ROM you lose during a flare-up, and what activities you must stop during a flare-up.
Example: I have flare-ups about three times per week, usually triggered by using my arm for more than 20 minutes. During a flare-up my arm becomes swollen and I can barely straighten it at all - it locks at about 120 degrees instead of the 90 degrees I can manage on a normal day. Flare-ups last 1 to 2 days and prevent me from working with my hands.
Examiner listens for: The DBQ form specifically asks about flare-ups (field 302). The examiner should document frequency, duration, triggers, and estimated additional functional loss.
Avoid: Do not fail to mention flare-ups if you experience them. Many veterans only describe their average day - the examiner needs your worst-day presentation per M21-1 guidance.
Weakness on Extension
How to describe it: Describe inability to push, lift, or extend against resistance. Note whether your arm gives out during activities, whether you drop objects, and whether you have noticed muscle thinning (atrophy) compared to the other arm.
Example: When I try to push something away from me or do a pushing motion, my arm feels like it will collapse. I cannot do push-ups at all and I have trouble pushing open heavy doors. My right arm looks thinner than my left arm in the upper forearm area.
Examiner listens for: Weakness as a DeLuca factor that limits functional ROM even when structural ROM is preserved. Documented via DBQ fields for weakness on extension.
Avoid: Do not say you are 'fine' with strength if you actually struggle with resistance activities. Weakness is separately documented on the DBQ and affects functional loss findings.
Fatigue and Lack of Endurance
How to describe it: Describe how quickly your arm tires during repetitive extension-based activities, how many repetitions or how many minutes of activity cause fatigue, and what happens when you continue past that point.
Example: After about 10 minutes of working with my arm extended - like typing, driving, or using tools - my elbow becomes fatigued and begins aching. I have to stop and rest for at least 20 minutes. If I push through, the pain escalates dramatically and I am essentially unable to use the arm for the rest of the day.
Examiner listens for: Fatigability that reduces effective ROM on repetitive use - a core DeLuca factor. DBQ has separate checkboxes for fatigability.
Avoid: Do not omit fatigue symptoms because they seem less dramatic than pain. Fatigability is an independent basis for functional loss under DeLuca.
Incoordination
How to describe it: Describe any trembling, jerky motion, inability to control the speed or direction of elbow extension, or difficulty with fine motor tasks that require a stable extended arm position.
Example: When I try to slowly lower something heavy with my arm extending outward, my elbow shakes and I cannot control the movement smoothly. I have dropped items because my arm gave out unexpectedly during extension.
Examiner listens for: Incoordination as a DeLuca factor, documented separately on the DBQ. Can contribute to functional loss findings even with preserved ROM.
Avoid: Do not overlook coordination problems if you have them. Veterans often fail to mention this symptom because they attribute it to general weakness rather than a distinct finding.
Functional Impact on Daily Activities and Work
How to describe it: Describe specific activities you cannot do or can only do with difficulty or pain: reaching overhead, pushing open doors, carrying objects with arm extended, driving, typing, using tools, self-care tasks. Quantify how much time you lose and what accommodations you make.
Example: I can no longer perform my previous job duties which required me to extend my arm repeatedly while handling equipment. At home, I cannot fully straighten my arm to wash dishes, I avoid driving long distances because holding the steering wheel aggravates my elbow, and I need help with tasks like carrying grocery bags or putting items on high shelves. On bad days I need a brace.
Examiner listens for: Specific functional limitations tied to extension loss. The DBQ asks about functional impact (field 822) and the examiner documents occupational effects.
Avoid: Do not give vague answers like 'it limits what I can do.' Be specific about named activities, frequency, duration, and the workarounds or assistance you require.
Common mistakes to avoid
Performing warm-up exercises or stretching before the exam to reduce stiffness
Why: This artificially improves your ROM measurement and may not reflect your true daily functional capacity
Do this instead: Arrive at the exam in your normal daily condition. If you are stiffer in the morning, schedule a morning exam if possible. Your typical baseline ROM is what matters.
Impact: Can cause underrating by 1-2 rating levels if ROM appears better than actual daily function
Pushing through pain to achieve a better ROM measurement
Why: VA rates the degree of extension where pain begins to limit function, not just the mechanical endpoint. Forcing through pain misrepresents your condition.
Do this instead: Stop the motion when pain meaningfully limits you and tell the examiner 'I can physically push further but it causes significant pain at this point.' The examiner should document painful motion.
Impact: Can cause significant underrating across all levels
Failing to report flare-up history because you are not in a flare-up on the day of the exam
Why: The DBQ specifically asks about flare-ups and the M21-1 requires the examiner to address additional functional loss during flare-ups based on your reported history
Do this instead: Proactively state: 'I want to note that today is not my worst day. I experience flare-ups [frequency] that increase my limitation to approximately [degrees]. During flare-ups I cannot [specific activities].'
Impact: Can result in rating based only on exam-day ROM rather than worst-day functional capacity
Not mentioning all DeLuca factors (pain, weakness, fatigue, incoordination) separately
Why: The DBQ has separate checkboxes and fields for each factor. If you only mention pain, the other factors may not be documented, resulting in an incomplete functional loss assessment.
Do this instead: Before the exam, prepare a written summary of each DeLuca factor and how it affects your extension. Mention each one explicitly during the interview portion.
Impact: Affects functional loss determination at all rating levels
Underreporting the impact on your dominant arm
Why: DC 5207 assigns different ratings for dominant vs. non-dominant arm. The dominant arm receives a higher percentage at several thresholds.
Do this instead: Clearly state your dominant hand at the start of the exam. If the affected arm is your dominant arm, ensure this is documented on the DBQ.
Impact: Can affect rating by 10% at the 100- and 110- thresholds
Not mentioning assistive devices or braces you use
Why: Use of braces or assistive devices is documented on the DBQ and supports the severity of your functional limitation
Do this instead: Bring any brace, splint, or other device you use. Tell the examiner when and why you use it and how much it helps or does not help.
Impact: Supports higher ratings and overall disability picture
Forgetting to address both flexion and extension as potentially separate ratable conditions
Why: DC 5206 (limitation of flexion) and DC 5207 (limitation of extension) are separately ratable. If you have both, failing to mention flexion limitation means a separate compensable rating may be missed.
Do this instead: Describe any limitation of bending the elbow (flexion) as well as straightening it (extension). Note if DC 5208 may apply if both flexion to 100- and extension to 45- are present.
Impact: Missing a separate flexion rating can mean a loss of 10-50% additional compensation
Prep checklist
- recommended
Document your current ROM on paper before the exam
Using a basic angle guide or goniometer app, record your active extension and flexion ROM in the morning before the exam. Note the degree where pain begins vs. the mechanical endpoint. Bring this record to the exam.
before exam
- critical
Write a detailed flare-up log covering the past 30 days
Record dates, triggers, severity (0-10), estimated ROM loss during flare-ups, duration, and activities you could not perform. The DBQ asks about flare-ups and the examiner must address them per M21-1 requirements.
before exam
- critical
Prepare a written list of all DeLuca factors and how each affects you
For each of the following, write one to two specific examples of functional impact: pain on motion, pain at rest, fatigue/lack of endurance on repetitive use, weakness, and incoordination. Do not rely on memory during the exam.
before exam
- critical
Identify your dominant arm and confirm it is documented in your VA records
DC 5207 rates dominant and non-dominant arms differently at several thresholds. Ensure your dominant arm status is on record and state it clearly during the exam.
before exam
- critical
Gather all relevant medical records and imaging reports
Collect X-rays, MRI reports, orthopedic clinic notes, surgical records (especially for elbow arthroplasty or arthroscopic procedures), and any prior VA rating decisions. Bring copies to the exam.
before exam
- recommended
Review 38 CFR 4.71a DC 5207 rating thresholds
Know that your rating depends on the specific degree to which extension is limited: 110-=50/40%, 100-=40/30%, 90-=30/20%, 75-=20/20%, 60-=10/10%, 45-=10/10%. Understand which threshold applies to you and by how much.
before exam
- recommended
Note any work accommodations or job changes due to your elbow
Document if you have changed jobs, reduced hours, been placed on light duty, or require workplace accommodations because of your forearm extension limitation. The DBQ asks about occupational impact.
before exam
- optional
Check your state's recording laws and decide whether to record the exam
Veterans have the right to request recording of C&P exams in most states. Check your state's consent requirements. If you wish to record, notify the examiner at the start of the exam.
before exam
- critical
Do not stretch, warm up, or take extra anti-inflammatory medication specifically to reduce exam stiffness
Your ROM should reflect your typical daily baseline. Taking extra NSAIDs or stretching before the exam may improve ROM artificially and underrepresent your actual disability level.
day of
- recommended
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows full arm exposure
The examiner needs access to your full arm from shoulder to wrist. Avoid tight sleeves. If you use a brace, wear or bring it.
day of
- critical
Bring your written symptom summary and flare-up log
Have your prepared notes available to reference during the interview portion. Do not rely solely on memory when describing symptoms, frequency, and functional impact.
day of
- recommended
Arrive on time and note the examiner's name and credentials
Document the examiner's name and type (MD, PA, NP). This may be relevant if you need to challenge the adequacy of the exam later.
day of
- recommended
Bring your brace or assistive device
Show the examiner any brace, compression sleeve, or assistive device you use for your elbow. Explain when and how often you use it.
day of
- critical
Verbally report pain at the exact point it begins during ROM testing
Do not wait until the examiner asks. As soon as pain begins during extension testing, say: 'Pain starts here at approximately [estimated degrees].' This ensures the painful arc is documented.
during exam
- critical
Report all DeLuca factors proactively if the examiner does not ask
If the examiner does not ask about fatigue, weakness, incoordination, or flare-ups, volunteer the information: 'I also want to mention that I experience significant fatigue after repetitive use and my ROM is worse during flare-ups.'
during exam
- critical
State clearly that today may not represent your worst-day presentation
Say: 'I want to note that my condition varies. Today may be a better or average day. On my worst days, my extension is limited to approximately [degrees] and I experience [additional symptoms].'
during exam
- critical
Describe specific functional limitations for everyday tasks
When asked about functional impact, give concrete examples: 'I cannot straighten my arm enough to push a shopping cart, reach a high shelf, or sustain typing for more than 10 minutes without pain forcing me to stop.'
during exam
- recommended
Confirm whether both extension and flexion limitations are being evaluated
If you also have limited flexion, ensure the examiner addresses it. Ask whether both DC 5206 (flexion) and DC 5207 (extension) will be documented, and whether DC 5208 (combined) applies if flexion is limited to 100- and extension to 45-.
during exam
- critical
Do not minimize symptoms when asked how you are doing
Examiners may ask casually 'how are you doing today?' A response of 'okay' or 'managing' can be noted as inconsistent with claimed severity. Accurately describe your functional state.
during exam
- critical
Write down everything you remember about the exam immediately afterward
Note the examiner's name, what ROM measurements were recorded, what questions were asked, what was and was not discussed, and whether all DeLuca factors were addressed. This documentation is essential if you need to challenge the exam.
after exam
- critical
Request a copy of the DBQ/exam report once it is finalized
You are entitled to a copy of your C&P exam report. Review it for accuracy. If findings are incorrect or incomplete - particularly if flare-ups or DeLuca factors were not addressed - you can request a supplemental exam or submit a buddy statement.
after exam
- recommended
Submit a personal statement if you feel the exam was inadequate
If the examiner did not test passive ROM, did not ask about flare-ups, did not document DeLuca factors, or spent less than 15 minutes with you, submit a written statement to your VSO or directly to VA noting the deficiencies.
after exam
- recommended
Contact your VSO if you believe the exam was inadequate
A Veterans Service Officer can help you request a new exam (known as a 'return to examiner' request) if the DBQ is incomplete, if required elements under Correia or DeLuca were not addressed, or if the examiner's conclusions are not supported by the findings.
after exam
Your rights during a C&P exam
- You have the right to request that your C&P examination be recorded (audio or video) in most states. Check your state's recording consent laws and notify the examiner at the start of the appointment.
- You have the right to review your C&P examination report once it is completed. Request a copy through your MyHealtheVet account, the VA FOIA process, or your VSO.
- You have the right to submit a personal statement (lay statement or buddy statement) documenting your symptoms, functional limitations, and flare-ups. This statement becomes part of your claims file and must be considered by the rating adjudicator.
- You have the right to request a supplemental or new C&P examination if the original exam is found to be inadequate - for example, if DeLuca factors were not addressed, passive ROM was not tested per Correia, or flare-ups were not discussed.
- You have the right to have a Veterans Service Officer (VSO), claims agent, or attorney represent you in your VA claim at no cost for VSO representation.
- You have the right to have the benefit of the doubt applied in your favor when the evidence is in approximate balance (38 CFR 3.102).
- You have the right to appeal any rating decision, including the C&P exam findings, through the Supplemental Claim, Higher-Level Review, or Board of Veterans' Appeals pathways under the Appeals Modernization Act.
- Per M21-1 and VA policy, the examiner is required to document your worst-day functional presentation, not just the findings on the exam day. If the examiner only recorded exam-day ROM without asking about flare-ups or repetitive use, this is a deficiency you can challenge.
- You are not required to accept the examiner's characterization of your symptoms. If the report misrepresents what you said or observed, you can submit a written rebuttal.
- Under Correia v. McDonald, the examiner is required to test both active and passive ROM. If only active ROM was tested, the examination may be considered inadequate.
Related conditions
- Forearm, Limitation of Flexion Separately ratable condition under DC 5206. Flexion and extension limitations are evaluated independently under M21-1 guidance. If flexion is limited to 100- and extension to 45-, DC 5208 may apply instead for a combined single rating.
- Forearm, Flexion Limited to 100- and Extension to 45- DC 5208 provides a single 20% evaluation when both flexion is limited to 100- and extension to 45- are present simultaneously. Consider whether DC 5207 alone or DC 5208 combined yields the higher overall rating.
- Elbow, Ankylosis of If the elbow is fused (ankylosed) rather than limited in motion, DC 5205 applies instead of DC 5207. Ankylosis at a favorable angle rates differently than limitation of motion.
- Impairment of Supination and Pronation of the Forearm Forearm rotation (pronation/supination) is separate and distinct from elbow flexion/extension and can be separately rated under DC 5213. M21-1 confirms these are non-duplicative disabilities warranting independent evaluations.
- Arthritis, Post-Traumatic (Elbow) Post-traumatic arthritis of the elbow is often the underlying diagnosis driving extension limitation. DC 5010 may be used as the diagnostic basis (e.g., 5010-5207) when the extension limitation results from arthritis following an injury.
- Dislocation of the Elbow Elbow dislocation history may be the precipitating cause of extension limitation. Document any prior dislocation events in your history as they establish the nexus between service and current limitation.
- Total Elbow Arthroplasty If you have had a total elbow joint replacement, DC 5054 provides a minimum 100% rating for one year post-surgery, after which the residual limitation is rated under the appropriate motion limitation code. Ensure surgical history is fully documented on the DBQ.
- Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow) Lateral epicondylitis can cause or contribute to extension limitation and is documented on the elbow/forearm DBQ. It may be rated analogously under a motion limitation code or under DC 5024 (tenosynovitis).
- Heterotopic Ossification Heterotopic ossification around the elbow joint is a documented cause of extension limitation, particularly following trauma or surgery. It is listed as a diagnosis option on the DBQ and should be identified if present on imaging.
Get a personalized prep packet
This guide covers what to expect for any veteran with this condition. If you have already uploaded your medical records, sign in to generate a packet that maps your specific symptoms to the DBQ fields your examiner will fill out.
This C&P exam preparation guide is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal, medical, or claims advice. Always consult with a qualified Veterans Service Organization (VSO) representative or VA-accredited attorney for guidance specific to your claim. Never exaggerate, minimize, or fabricate symptoms during a C&P examination.