Thumb, limitation of motion
Thumb, limitation of motion is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5228, from 0% to 20% based on the frequency and functional severity of symptoms. The maximum 20% rating requires: With a gap of more than two inches (5.1 cm.) between the thumb pad and the fingers, with the thumb attempting to oppose the fingers; 20. Most claims establish the 0% or 10% rating before reaching the top tier.
Rating schedule — DC 5228 at a glance
- Minimum rating
- 0%
- Maximum rating
- 20%
- 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%
0%, 10%, 20%
Part 4 rating schedule
None mapped
What are the VA rating criteria for Thumb, limitation of motion?
With a gap of less than one inch (2.5 cm.) between the thumb pad and the fingers, with the thumb attempting to oppose the fingers; 0
With a gap of one to two inches (2.5 to 5.1 cm.) between the thumb pad and the fingers, with the thumb attempting to oppose the fingers; 10
With a gap of more than two inches (5.1 cm.) between the thumb pad and the fingers, with the thumb attempting to oppose the fingers; 20
“With a gap of one to two inches (2.5 to 5.1 cm.) between the thumb pad and the fingers, with the thumb attempting to oppose the fingers; 10”
Common Questions About Thumb, limitation of motion VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Thumb, limitation of motion?
The VA rates Thumb, limitation of motion under Diagnostic Code 5228 at 0%, 10%, 20%. The minimum 0% rating requires: With a gap of less than one inch (2.5 cm.) between the thumb pad and the fingers, with the thumb attempting to oppose the fingers; 0. The maximum 20% rating requires: With a gap of more than two inches (5.1 cm.) between the thumb pad and the fingers, with the thumb attempting to oppose the fingers; 20.
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Thumb, limitation of motion?
The VA rates Thumb, limitation of motion under Diagnostic Code (DC) 5228, 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 0% and a 20% rating for Thumb, limitation of motion?
A 0% rating requires: With a gap of less than one inch (2.5 cm.) between the thumb pad and the fingers, with the thumb attempting to oppose the fingers; 0. A 20% rating requires: With a gap of more than two inches (5.1 cm.) between the thumb pad and the fingers, with the thumb attempting to oppose the fingers; 20. The difference typically reflects the frequency, severity, or functional impact of the condition as documented in medical records and C&P examination findings.
Can Thumb, limitation of motion qualify for TDIU (Total Disability Individual Unemployability)?
Veterans rated for Thumb, limitation of motion 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 Thumb, limitation of motion?
Service connection for Thumb, limitation of motion 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 Thumb, limitation of motion?
A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam for Thumb, limitation of motion 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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