DC 5219Musculoskeletal System38 CFR § 4.71aLast verified: APR 22, 2026

Two digits of one hand, unfavorable ankylosis of

Two digits of one hand, unfavorable ankylosis of is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5219, from 20% to 40% based on the frequency and functional severity of symptoms. The maximum 40% rating requires: Thumb and any finger; 30. Most claims establish the 20% or 30% rating before reaching the top tier.

Rating schedule — DC 5219 at a glance

Minimum rating
20%

Lowest schedular rating available

Maximum rating
40%

TDIU may raise effective compensation to 100%

Rating tiers
3

20%, 30%, 40%

CFR section
38 CFR § 4.71a

Part 4 rating schedule

Body system
Musculoskeletal System
Secondary conditions
0

None mapped

What are the VA rating criteria for Two digits of one hand, unfavorable ankylosis of?

20%Disability Rating

Index and long; index and ring; or index and little fingers; 30

30%Disability Rating

Thumb and any finger; 40

40%Disability Rating

Thumb and any finger; 30

Thumb and any finger; 40

Common Questions About Two digits of one hand, unfavorable ankylosis of VA Ratings

What is the VA rating range for Two digits of one hand, unfavorable ankylosis of?

The VA rates Two digits of one hand, unfavorable ankylosis of under Diagnostic Code 5219 at 20%, 30%, 40%. The minimum 20% rating requires: Index and long; index and ring; or index and little fingers; 30. The maximum 40% rating requires: Thumb and any finger; 30.

Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Two digits of one hand, unfavorable ankylosis of?

The VA rates Two digits of one hand, unfavorable ankylosis of under Diagnostic Code (DC) 5219, 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 20% and a 40% rating for Two digits of one hand, unfavorable ankylosis of?

A 20% rating requires: Index and long; index and ring; or index and little fingers; 30. A 40% rating requires: Thumb and any finger; 30. The difference typically reflects the frequency, severity, or functional impact of the condition as documented in medical records and C&P examination findings.

Can Two digits of one hand, unfavorable ankylosis of qualify for TDIU (Total Disability Individual Unemployability)?

Veterans rated for Two digits of one hand, unfavorable ankylosis 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 Two digits of one hand, unfavorable ankylosis of?

Service connection for Two digits of one hand, unfavorable ankylosis 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 Two digits of one hand, unfavorable ankylosis of?

A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam for Two digits of one hand, unfavorable ankylosis 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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