Wrist, limitation of motion of
The VA rates Wrist, limitation of motion of under Diagnostic Code 5215 across 3 severity levels, from 10% to 30%. The 30% maximum means additional ratings through secondary conditions or combined ratings are critical for higher compensation.
Rating schedule — DC 5215 at a glance
- Minimum rating
- 10%
- Maximum rating
- 30%
- Rating tiers
- 3
- CFR section
- § 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?
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 10% | Dorsiflexion less than 15°; 10 Note: Normal wrist dorsiflexion is 70 degrees; palmar flexion 80 degrees. |
| 20% | Unfavorable ankylosis of the wrist: In palmar flexion, or in dorsiflexion of more than 15 degrees. |
| 30% | 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?
Wrist, limitation of motion of maxes at 30%, 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 Wrist, limitation of motion of?
The key evidence for Wrist, limitation of 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.
What happens at the C&P exam for Wrist, limitation of motion of?
The C&P examiner uses a Musculoskeletal System DBQ and evaluates your condition against the DC 5215 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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