Wrist, limitation of motion of
Wrist, limitation of motion of is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5215, from 10% to 30% based on the frequency and functional severity of symptoms. The maximum 30% rating requires: Unfavorable ankylosis of the wrist in combined positions (e.g., radial or ulnar deviation with flexion) resulting in significant functional loss.. Most claims establish the 10% or 20% rating before reaching the top tier.
Rating schedule — DC 5215 at a glance
- Minimum rating
- 10%
- Maximum rating
- 30%
- Rating tiers
- 3
- CFR section
- 38 CFR § 4.71a
- Body system
- Musculoskeletal System
- Secondary conditions
- 0
Lowest schedular rating available
TDIU may raise effective compensation to 100%
10%, 20%, 30%
Part 4 rating schedule
None mapped
What are the VA rating criteria for Wrist, limitation of motion of?
Dorsiflexion less than 15°; 10
Note: Normal wrist dorsiflexion is 70 degrees; palmar flexion 80 degrees.
Unfavorable ankylosis of the wrist: In palmar flexion, or in dorsiflexion of more than 15 degrees.
Unfavorable ankylosis of the wrist in combined positions (e.g., radial or ulnar deviation with flexion) resulting in significant functional loss.
“Unfavorable ankylosis of the wrist: In palmar flexion, or in dorsiflexion of more than 15 degrees.”
Common Questions About Wrist, limitation of motion of VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Wrist, limitation of motion of?
The VA rates Wrist, limitation of motion of under Diagnostic Code 5215 at 10%, 20%, 30%. The minimum 10% rating requires: Dorsiflexion less than 15°; 10. The maximum 30% rating requires: Unfavorable ankylosis of the wrist in combined positions (e.g., radial or ulnar deviation with flexion) resulting in significant functional loss..
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Wrist, limitation of motion of?
The VA rates Wrist, limitation of motion of under Diagnostic Code (DC) 5215, 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 30% rating for Wrist, limitation of motion of?
A 10% rating requires: Dorsiflexion less than 15°; 10. A 30% rating requires: Unfavorable ankylosis of the wrist in combined positions (e.g., radial or ulnar deviation with flexion) resulting in significant functional loss.. The difference typically reflects the frequency, severity, or functional impact of the condition as documented in medical records and C&P examination findings.
Can Wrist, limitation of motion of qualify for TDIU (Total Disability Individual Unemployability)?
Veterans rated for Wrist, limitation of motion of may qualify for TDIU if the condition — alone or in combination with other service-connected disabilities — prevents substantially gainful employment. A single disability rated at 60% or higher (or multiple disabilities combining to 70%, with one at 40%) can support a TDIU claim under 38 CFR § 4.16.
What evidence do I need to establish service connection for Wrist, limitation of motion of?
Service connection for Wrist, limitation of motion of requires three elements: (1) a current diagnosis of the condition, (2) an in-service event, injury, or disease, and (3) a medical nexus linking the current diagnosis to that in-service occurrence. A nexus letter from a treating or independent medical examiner is the most reliable nexus evidence.
What is the C&P exam like for Wrist, limitation of motion of?
A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam for Wrist, limitation of motion of uses a Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) specific to the body system involved. The examiner documents the frequency, severity, and functional impact of your symptoms. Bring all relevant treatment records and be prepared to describe your worst-day symptoms — the examiner rates your condition based on the full clinical picture, not a single visit.
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