Ankylosis of long finger
The VA rates Ankylosis of long finger under Diagnostic Code 5226 at a single 10% level. The applicable level depends on the full criteria and the evidence for the condition. These percentages are alternatives, not amounts to add together.
Catalog name: Long finger, ankylosis of.
Rating schedule — DC 5226 at a glance
- Minimum rating
- 10%
- Maximum rating
- 10%
- Rating tiers
- 1
- CFR section
- § 4.71a
- Body system
- Musculoskeletal System
- Secondary conditions
- 0
Lowest schedular rating available
TDIU may raise effective compensation to 100%
10%
Part 4 rating schedule
None mapped
What are the VA rating criteria for Ankylosis of long finger?
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 10% | Unfavorable or favorable; 10 |
“Unfavorable or favorable; 10”
What other musculoskeletal conditions does the VA rate?
These diagnostic codes sit next to Ankylosis of long finger 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.
- 5221Four digits of one hand, favorable ankylosis ofRated up to 50%
- 5222Three digits of one hand, favorable ankylosis ofRated up to 40%
- 5223Two digits of one hand, favorable ankylosis ofRated up to 30%
- 5224Thumb, ankylosis ofRated up to 20%
- 5225Index finger, ankylosis ofRated up to 10%
- 5227Ring or little finger, ankylosis ofRated up to 0%
- 5228Thumb, limitation of motionRated up to 20%
- 5229Index or long finger, limitation of motionRated up to 10%
- 5230Ring or little finger, limitation of motionRated up to 0%
- 5235Cervical StrainRated up to 100%
Common Questions About Ankylosis of long finger VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Ankylosis of long finger?
The VA rates Ankylosis of long finger under Diagnostic Code 5226 at 10%. The minimum 10% rating requires: Unfavorable or favorable; 10. The maximum 10% rating requires: Unfavorable or favorable; 10.
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Ankylosis of long finger?
The VA rates Ankylosis of long finger under Diagnostic Code (DC) 5226, governed by 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a. The diagnostic code establishes the specific rating tiers and severity criteria the VA examiner applies.
Can Ankylosis of long finger qualify for TDIU?
Ankylosis of long finger 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.
What evidence supports a higher rating for Ankylosis of long finger?
The key evidence for Ankylosis of long finger 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 Ankylosis of long finger?
The C&P examiner uses a Musculoskeletal System DBQ and evaluates your condition against the DC 5226 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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