VA Diagnostic Code 5221Four digits of one hand, favorable ankylosis of
Rated from 40% to 50% under § 4.71a. Here is what the VA requires at each level.
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- 50%40% non-dominant
Thumb and any three fingers
- 40%30% non-dominant
Index, long, ring, and little fingers
Favorable Ankylosis of Four Digits of One Hand (VA Diagnostic Code 5221)
Understanding This Condition
Diagnostic Code 5221 covers favorable ankylosis of four digits of one hand. Ankylosis is the stiffening or fixation of a joint, meaning the affected digits can no longer move freely. "Favorable" ankylosis refers to a joint that is fixed in a more functional position compared to unfavorable ankylosis.
This condition falls under the Musculoskeletal System and is rated under § 4.71a of the VA rating schedule.
Available Rating Levels
The VA assigns a disability rating based on which combination of four digits is affected. Ratings differ depending on whether the affected hand is your dominant (major) or non-dominant (minor) extremity.
| Rating (Dominant Hand) | Rating (Non-Dominant Hand) | Digits Affected |
|---|---|---|
| 50% | 40% | Thumb and any three fingers |
| 40% | 30% | Index, long, ring, and little fingers |
What the VA Looks For
When evaluating this condition, the VA considers:
- Which four digits of the hand are affected by favorable ankylosis — specifically, whether the combination includes the thumb and any three fingers, or the index, long, ring, and little fingers.
- Whether the affected hand is your dominant or non-dominant (major or minor) extremity, as this directly affects the assigned rating percentage.
Each situation is evaluated individually according to the criteria set out in the VA rating schedule.
These criteria are a rendering of § 4.71a, diagnostic code 5221. The official version is the one that governs your rating.
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File under diagnostic code 5221 and attach the evidence for the level you are asking for. Other Musculoskeletal System codes may cover your secondary conditions.
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