Index finger, ankylosis of — VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR DC 5225)

The VA rates Index finger, ankylosis of under Diagnostic Code 5225 at the following tiers: 10%. The minimum 10% rating requires: Unfavorable or favorable; 10. The maximum 10% rating requires: Unfavorable or favorable; 10.

Diagnostic Code 5225 is the VA rating identifier for Index finger, ankylosis of within 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a. It defines the specific symptom criteria and percentage thresholds a VA adjudicator uses to assign a disability rating. The diagnostic code is listed on a veteran's rating decision letter.

The highest schedular rating for Index finger, ankylosis of under DC 5225 is 10%. This tier requires: Unfavorable or favorable; 10. Veterans who cannot secure substantially gainful employment due to Index finger, ankylosis of alone or in combination with other service-connected conditions may also qualify for TDIU at the 100% compensation rate under 38 CFR § 4.16.

Index finger, ankylosis of is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5225. This section is part of the Schedule for Rating Disabilities (38 CFR Part 4) and can be read in full at the eCFR website.

Secondary conditions caused or aggravated by Index finger, ankylosis of may be ratable under 38 CFR § 3.310. Veterans should work with a VSO or accredited claims agent to document the medical relationship.

Service connection for Index finger, ankylosis of requires three elements: (1) a current diagnosis of the condition, (2) an in-service event, injury, or disease that may have caused or aggravated it, and (3) a medical nexus connecting the current diagnosis to that in-service event. A nexus letter from a treating physician or independent medical examiner is the most reliable nexus evidence. C&P exam findings can also establish nexus if adequately documented.