Index and ring
The VA rates Index and ring under Diagnostic Code 5147 across 2 severity levels, from 30% to 40%. The 40% maximum means additional ratings through secondary conditions or combined ratings are critical for higher compensation.
Rating schedule — DC 5147 at a glance
- Minimum rating
- 30%
- Maximum rating
- 40%
- Rating tiers
- 2
- CFR section
- § 4.71a
- Body system
- Musculoskeletal System
- Secondary conditions
- 0
Lowest schedular rating available
TDIU may raise effective compensation to 100%
30%, 40%
Part 4 rating schedule
None mapped
What are the VA rating criteria for Index and ring?
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 30% | 40 |
| 40% | 30 |
“30”
What other musculoskeletal conditions does the VA rate?
These diagnostic codes sit next to Index and ring in 38 CFR Part 4. The rating schedule is ordered anatomically, so neighbouring codes usually cover the same joint, organ, or system, and a claim often involves more than one of them.
- 5142Thumb and indexRated up to 50%
- 5143Thumb and longRated up to 50%
- 5144Thumb and ringRated up to 50%
- 5145Thumb and littleRated up to 50%
- 5146Index and longRated up to 40%
- 5148Index and littleRated up to 40%
- 5149Long and ringRated up to 30%
- 5150Long and littleRated up to 30%
- 5151Ring and littleRated up to 30%
- 5152Thumb, amputation ofRated up to 40%
Common Questions About Index and ring VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Index and ring?
The VA rates Index and ring under Diagnostic Code 5147 at 30%, 40%. The minimum 30% rating requires: 40. The maximum 40% rating requires: 30.
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Index and ring?
The VA rates Index and ring under Diagnostic Code (DC) 5147, 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 30% and a 40% rating for Index and ring?
A 30% rating requires: 40. A 40% rating requires: 30. The difference typically reflects the frequency, severity, or functional impact of the condition as documented in medical records and C&P examination findings.
Can Index and ring qualify for TDIU?
Possibly. Index and ring maxes at 40%, which doesn't meet the single-disability TDIU threshold of 60% alone. However, if combined with other service-connected disabilities totaling 70%+ (with one at 40%+), TDIU under 38 CFR § 4.16(a) may apply. Extraschedular TDIU under § 4.16(b) is also available if the condition alone prevents work regardless of rating.
What evidence supports a higher rating for Index and ring?
The key evidence for Index and ring 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.
What happens at the C&P exam for Index and ring?
The C&P examiner uses a Musculoskeletal System DBQ and evaluates your condition against the DC 5147 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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