Index finger, ankylosis of

The VA rates Index finger, ankylosis of under Diagnostic Code 5225 at 10%. The minimum 10% rating requires: Unfavorable or favorable; 10. The maximum 10% rating requires: Unfavorable or favorable; 10.

The VA rates Index finger, ankylosis of under Diagnostic Code (DC) 5225, governed by 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a. The diagnostic code establishes the specific rating tiers and severity criteria the VA examiner applies.

Index finger, ankylosis of maxes at 10%, 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.

The key evidence for Index finger, ankylosis 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.

The C&P examiner uses a Musculoskeletal System DBQ and evaluates your condition against the DC 5225 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.