Group XIV. Function: Extension of knee; simultaneous flexion of hip and flexion of knee; tension of fascia lata and iliotibial band, acting with XVII in postural support of body; acting with hamstrings in synchronizing hip and knee. Anterior thigh group: Sartorius; rectus femoris; vastus externus; vastus intermedius; vastus internus; tensor vaginae femoris (DC 5314)

Body system: Muscle InjuriesRegulation: 38 CFR § 4.73

Diagnostic Code 5314 covers injuries to the quadriceps muscle group - the large muscles on the front of your thigh that straighten your knee and help you walk, stand, and climb stairs. The VA rates these muscle injuries from 0% to 40% based on how severely they limit your leg function and daily activities. Higher ratings reflect more significant muscle damage that causes greater weakness, pain, and difficulty with movement.

Rating levels

40% — This covers severe damage to the major muscle group on the front of your thigh that straightens your knee and helps bend your hip. These muscles (called the quadriceps and related muscles) are responsible for extending your leg, supporting your body weight when standing, and coordinating movement between your hip and knee. Severe injury means significant weakness, pain, or inability to properly straighten your knee or maintain normal leg function during daily activities.
30% — You have moderately severe damage to the major muscle group on the front of your thigh that straightens your knee and helps you walk and stand. This includes muscles like the quadriceps (the large muscles that make up most of your front thigh) and other supporting muscles that work together to extend your leg, bend your hip, and keep your body stable when standing or moving. The damage significantly limits your ability to straighten your knee fully, walk normally, or maintain good balance and posture.
10% — You have moderate damage to the muscles in the front of your thigh (the quadriceps group that straightens your knee, plus other supporting muscles like the sartorius and tensor muscles). This affects your ability to straighten your knee completely, bend your hip and knee together smoothly, and may cause some weakness or stiffness when walking, climbing stairs, or getting up from sitting positions.
0% — You have slight damage to the muscles in the front of your thigh that help you straighten your knee and bend your hip. These muscles (including your quadriceps and other supporting muscles) have minor injury or weakness, but you can still perform most normal activities with only minimal limitation in knee extension or hip flexion.

Disclaimer: This tool is for informational purposes only and is not legal or medical advice. Always consult with your VSO representative or a qualified veterans benefits attorney for guidance on your specific claim.