In a knee injury scenario with a brace and no objective disability, which rating applies?

• A. 25%
• B. 10%
• C. 15%
• D. 20%

Answer: (D)

Impairment ratings reflect how much a knee injury permanently limits function. When a knee injury requires a brace, that signals ongoing functional limitation even if objective testing doesn’t show a clear disability. The brace is evidence of residual weakness or instability that affects daily activities, so the rating falls into the moderate range for knee injuries. Without objective disability on exam, you wouldn’t justify a higher rating, but the need for a brace pushes the assessment to about 20% impairment, which is why 20% is the best fit. A higher rating would usually need objective findings like reduced range of motion or definite instability, while a lower rating would apply if there were truly minimal or no functional impact beyond symptoms.