Wrist, ankylosis of
Wrist, ankylosis of is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5214, from 20% to 50% based on the frequency and functional severity of symptoms. The maximum 50% rating requires: Unfavorable, in any degree of palmar flexion, or with ulnar or radial deviation; 40. Most claims establish the 20% or 30% rating before reaching the top tier.
Rating schedule — DC 5214 at a glance
- Minimum rating
- 20%
- Maximum rating
- 50%
- Rating tiers
- 4
- CFR section
- 38 CFR § 4.71a
- Body system
- Musculoskeletal System
- Secondary conditions
- 0
Lowest schedular rating available
TDIU may raise effective compensation to 100%
20%, 30%, 40%, 50%
Part 4 rating schedule
None mapped
What are the VA rating criteria for Wrist, ankylosis of?
Favorable in 20° to 30° dorsiflexion; 30
Any other position, except favorable; 40
Unfavorable, in any degree of palmar flexion, or with ulnar or radial deviation; 50
Unfavorable, in any degree of palmar flexion, or with ulnar or radial deviation; 40
“Unfavorable, in any degree of palmar flexion, or with ulnar or radial deviation; 50”
Common Questions About Wrist, ankylosis of VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Wrist, ankylosis of?
The VA rates Wrist, ankylosis of under Diagnostic Code 5214 at 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%. The minimum 20% rating requires: Favorable in 20° to 30° dorsiflexion; 30. The maximum 50% rating requires: Unfavorable, in any degree of palmar flexion, or with ulnar or radial deviation; 40.
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Wrist, ankylosis of?
The VA rates Wrist, ankylosis of under Diagnostic Code (DC) 5214, 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 50% rating for Wrist, ankylosis of?
A 20% rating requires: Favorable in 20° to 30° dorsiflexion; 30. A 50% rating requires: Unfavorable, in any degree of palmar flexion, or with ulnar or radial deviation; 40. 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, ankylosis of qualify for TDIU (Total Disability Individual Unemployability)?
Veterans rated for Wrist, 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 Wrist, ankylosis of?
Service connection for Wrist, 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 Wrist, ankylosis of?
A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam for Wrist, 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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