---
title: "DC 5218 - Three digits of one hand, unfavorable ankylosis of"
diagnostic_code: "5218"
body_system: "Musculoskeletal System"
cfr_section: "§ 4.71a"
canonical: "https://veteranai.co/va-rating-schedule/musculoskeletal/5218-three-digits-of-one-hand-unfavorable-ankylosis-of"
source: "https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-4.71a"
updated: "2026-07-21T19:50:15.608207Z"
---

# DC 5218 - Three digits of one hand, unfavorable ankylosis of

Rated under § 4.71a. Body system: Musculoskeletal System.

## Rating criteria

| Rating | Rating (non-dominant) | Criteria |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 50% | 40% | Thumb and any two fingers |
| 40% | 30% | Index, long, and ring; index, long, and little; or index, ring, and little fingers |
| 30% | 20% | Long, ring, and little fingers |

## Notes

- Note: Also consider whether evaluation as amputation is warranted.

# Unfavorable Ankylosis of Three Digits of One Hand (Diagnostic Code 5218)

*Musculoskeletal System · 38 CFR § 4.71a*

## Understanding This Condition

Ankylosis refers to the stiffening or fixation of a joint, meaning the affected digits can no longer move freely. Under Diagnostic Code 5218, the VA addresses **unfavorable ankylosis of three digits of one hand** — a condition affecting hand function when three fingers (or a thumb and two fingers) become fixed in position.

Because hand use often depends on which hand is affected, the VA distinguishes between the **dominant (major)** hand and the **non-dominant (minor)** hand. Ratings for the non-dominant hand are listed separately below.

## Available Rating Levels

The following rating levels apply under Diagnostic Code 5218:

| Rating (Dominant Hand) | Rating (Non-Dominant Hand) | Which Digits Are Affected |
|---|---|---|
| **50%** | 40% | Thumb and any two fingers |
| **40%** | 30% | Index, long, and ring; index, long, and little; or index, ring, and little fingers |
| **30%** | 20% | Long, ring, and little fingers |

## What the VA Looks For

When evaluating this condition, the VA considers:

- **Which three digits are affected**, since the combination of digits determines the applicable rating level.
- **Whether the affected hand is the dominant or non-dominant extremity**, as this changes the assigned percentage.
- **Whether the ankylosis is unfavorable**, which is the specific type of joint fixation addressed by this diagnostic code.

## Additional Consideration

**Note:** The VA will also consider whether an evaluation as **amputation** is warranted, depending on the circumstances of the condition.

---

*This information is drawn directly from the VA rating schedule under 38 CFR § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5218. Individual ratings depend on the specifics of your condition as evaluated by the VA.*

Source: https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-4.71a