---
title: "DC 5227 - Ring or little finger, ankylosis of"
diagnostic_code: "5227"
body_system: "Musculoskeletal System"
cfr_section: "§ 4.71a"
canonical: "https://veteranai.co/va-rating-schedule/musculoskeletal/5227-ring-or-little-finger-ankylosis-of"
source: "https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-4.71a"
updated: "2026-07-21T19:53:06.168567Z"
---

# DC 5227 - Ring or little finger, ankylosis of

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

## Rating criteria

| Rating | Rating (non-dominant) | Criteria |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 0% | 0% | Unfavorable or favorable |

## Notes

- Note: Also consider whether evaluation as amputation is warranted and whether an additional evaluation is warranted for resulting limitation of motion of other digits or interference with overall function of the hand.

# Ankylosis of the Ring or Little Finger (Diagnostic Code 5227)

## Understanding This Condition

**Ankylosis** means a joint has become stiff or fixed in place, limiting or eliminating its ability to move. Diagnostic Code 5227 covers ankylosis of the **ring finger or little finger** on either hand.

This condition falls under the **Musculoskeletal System** and is rated under **§ 4.71a** of the VA rating schedule.

## Available Rating Levels

Under this diagnostic code, the rating levels are:

| Rating | Criteria |
|--------|----------|
| **0%** | Unfavorable or favorable ankylosis |
| **0% (non-dominant extremity)** | Unfavorable or favorable ankylosis of the ring or little finger on the non-dominant hand |

The rating is **0%** whether the ankylosis is favorable or unfavorable, and whether it affects the dominant or non-dominant hand.

## What the VA Looks For

When evaluating ankylosis of the ring or little finger, the VA also considers the following, as noted in the rating schedule:

- **Whether evaluation as an amputation is warranted** — in some cases, the impact of the condition may be assessed under amputation criteria instead.
- **Whether an additional evaluation is warranted for resulting limitation of motion of other digits** — if the ankylosis affects the movement of nearby fingers.
- **Whether there is interference with the overall function of the hand** — the broader effect on how the hand works.

These considerations help ensure that the full impact of the condition on hand function is accounted for.

---

*This information is drawn directly from the VA rating schedule under Diagnostic Code 5227, § 4.71a. It is provided for general educational purposes and does not guarantee any particular rating or outcome.*

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