DC 5215Musculoskeletal38 CFR § 4.71aLast verified: APR 8, 2026

Wrist, limitation of motion of — VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR DC 5215)

The VA rates Wrist, limitation of motion of under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5215, from 10% to 30% based on the frequency and functional severity of symptoms. The maximum 30% rating requires Unfavorable ankylosis of the wrist in combined positions (e.g., radial or ulnar deviation with flexion) resulting in significant functional loss.. Related conditions in the Musculoskeletal body system share this rating framework.

What are the VA rating criteria for Wrist, limitation of motion of?

10%Disability Rating

Dorsiflexion less than 15°; 10

20%Disability Rating

Unfavorable ankylosis of the wrist: In palmar flexion, or in dorsiflexion of more than 15 degrees.

30%Disability Rating

Unfavorable ankylosis of the wrist in combined positions (e.g., radial or ulnar deviation with flexion) resulting in significant functional loss.

Unfavorable ankylosis of the wrist: In palmar flexion, or in dorsiflexion of more than 15 degrees.
— 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5215 (20% tier)

Common Questions About Wrist, limitation of motion of VA Ratings

What is the VA disability rating for Wrist, limitation of motion of?

The VA rates Wrist, limitation of motion of under Diagnostic Code 5215 at the following tiers: 10%, 20%, 30%. The minimum 10% rating requires: Dorsiflexion less than 15°; 10. The maximum 30% rating requires: Unfavorable ankylosis of the wrist in combined positions (e.g., radial or ulnar deviation with flexion) resulting in significant functional loss..

What is Diagnostic Code 5215?

Diagnostic Code 5215 is the VA rating identifier for Wrist, limitation of motion 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.

What is the highest rating for Wrist, limitation of motion of?

The highest schedular rating for Wrist, limitation of motion of under DC 5215 is 30%. This tier requires: Unfavorable ankylosis of the wrist in combined positions (e.g., radial or ulnar deviation with flexion) resulting in significant functional loss.. Veterans who cannot secure substantially gainful employment due to Wrist, limitation of motion 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.

What 38 CFR section governs Wrist, limitation of motion of ratings?

Wrist, limitation of motion of is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5215. 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 Wrist, limitation of motion of?

Secondary conditions caused or aggravated by Wrist, limitation of motion of 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 do I need to establish service connection for Wrist, limitation of motion of?

Service connection for Wrist, limitation of motion 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.

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