Thumb, limitation of motion — VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR DC 5228)
The VA rates Thumb, limitation of motion under 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. Related conditions in the Musculoskeletal body system share this rating framework.
Also available: View full condition details for Thumb, limitation of motion
Rating schedule — DC 5228 at a glance
- Minimum rating
- 0%
- Maximum rating
- 20%
- Rating tiers
- 3
- CFR section
- § 4.71a
- Body system
- Musculoskeletal
- 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”
How does the VA rate Musculoskeletal conditions?
Common Questions About Thumb, limitation of motion VA Ratings
What is the VA disability rating for Thumb, limitation of motion?
The VA rates Thumb, limitation of motion under Diagnostic Code 5228 at the following tiers: 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.
What is Diagnostic Code 5228?
Diagnostic Code 5228 is the VA rating identifier for Thumb, limitation of motion 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.
What is the highest rating for Thumb, limitation of motion?
The highest schedular rating for Thumb, limitation of motion under DC 5228 is 20%. This tier 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. Veterans who cannot secure substantially gainful employment due to Thumb, limitation of motion alone or in combination with other service-connected conditions may also qualify for TDIU at the 100% compensation rate under 38 CFR § 4.16.
What 38 CFR section governs Thumb, limitation of motion ratings?
Thumb, limitation of motion is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5228. This section is part of the Schedule for Rating Disabilities (38 CFR Part 4) and can be read in full at the eCFR website.
Which conditions are commonly secondary to Thumb, limitation of motion?
Secondary conditions caused or aggravated by Thumb, limitation of motion may be ratable under 38 CFR § 3.310. Veterans should work with a VSO or accredited claims agent to document the medical relationship.
What evidence supports a higher rating for Thumb, limitation of motion?
The key evidence for Thumb, limitation of motion depends on the body system. For musculoskeletal conditions, range of motion measurements (active, passive, weight-bearing, and non-weight-bearing per Correia v. McDonald) and documented flare-ups are the most impactful evidence. A nexus letter from a qualified medical professional is essential for contested claims.
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