Ankle, limited motion of
The VA rates Ankle, limited motion of under Diagnostic Code 5271 across 2 severity levels, from 10% to 20%. With a cap of 20%, most veterans pursue secondary conditions to increase their combined rating. There are 2 documented secondary conditions linked to Ankle, limited motion of.
Rating schedule — DC 5271 at a glance
- Minimum rating
- 10%
- Maximum rating
- 20%
- Rating tiers
- 2
- CFR section
- § 4.71a
- Body system
- Musculoskeletal System
- Secondary conditions
- 2
Lowest schedular rating available
TDIU may raise effective compensation to 100%
10%, 20%
Part 4 rating schedule
Mapped in our database
What are the VA rating criteria for Ankle, limited motion of?
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 10% | Moderate (less than 15 degrees dorsiflexion or less than 30 degrees plantar flexion) Note: Normal ankle dorsiflexion is approximately 20 degrees; plantar flexion is approximately 45 degrees. DC 5271 applies to limitation at the ankle joint. A separate rating may be applicable for subtalar or other foot joint involvement. |
| 20% | Marked (less than 5 degrees dorsiflexion or less than 10 degrees plantar flexion) Note: Marked limitation represents near-total loss of ankle motion. This significantly impairs walking, stair climbing, and standing. Veterans with ankle instability or secondary arthritis may qualify for additional ratings. |
“Marked (less than 5 degrees dorsiflexion or less than 10 degrees plantar flexion)”
Which conditions are commonly secondary to Ankle, limited motion of?
View 2 secondary conditions linked to Ankle, limited motion of
Medical rationale, evidence strength, and filing tips — rated under 38 CFR § 3.310
Common Questions About Ankle, limited motion of VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Ankle, limited motion of?
The VA rates Ankle, limited motion of under Diagnostic Code 5271 at 10%, 20%. The minimum 10% rating requires: Moderate (less than 15 degrees dorsiflexion or less than 30 degrees plantar flexion). The maximum 20% rating requires: Marked (less than 5 degrees dorsiflexion or less than 10 degrees plantar flexion).
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Ankle, limited motion of?
The VA rates Ankle, limited motion of under Diagnostic Code (DC) 5271, governed by 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a. The diagnostic code establishes the specific rating tiers and severity criteria the VA examiner applies.
What is the difference between a 10% and a 20% rating for Ankle, limited motion of?
A 10% rating requires: Moderate (less than 15 degrees dorsiflexion or less than 30 degrees plantar flexion). A 20% rating requires: Marked (less than 5 degrees dorsiflexion or less than 10 degrees plantar flexion). The difference typically reflects the frequency, severity, or functional impact of the condition as documented in medical records and C&P examination findings.
Can Ankle, limited motion of qualify for TDIU?
Ankle, limited motion of maxes at 20%, well below the single-disability TDIU threshold. However, combined with other service-connected disabilities, TDIU may be achievable under 38 CFR § 4.16. Focus on establishing secondary conditions to increase the combined rating.
What evidence supports a higher rating for Ankle, limited motion of?
The key evidence for Ankle, limited motion of is documentation of how the condition affects daily functioning. For musculoskeletal conditions, range of motion measurements (active, passive, weight-bearing, and non-weight-bearing per Correia v. McDonald) and flare-up documentation are critical. A nexus letter from a qualified medical professional linking the current severity to service is essential for contested claims.
Which conditions are commonly secondary to Ankle, limited motion of?
Ankle, limited motion of is associated with 2 documented secondary conditions. Secondary conditions caused or aggravated by a service-connected disability are ratable under 38 CFR § 3.310. See the secondary conditions page for the full list with medical rationale and evidence strength ratings.
What happens at the C&P exam for Ankle, limited motion of?
The C&P examiner uses a Musculoskeletal System DBQ and evaluates your condition against the DC 5271 rating criteria. Expect range of motion testing in multiple positions. Under Correia v. McDonald, the examiner must test active, passive, weight-bearing, and non-weight-bearing range of motion. Report your worst flare-up symptoms — if you cannot attend during a flare, request the exam be rescheduled.
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