VASRD 5208 · Musculoskeletal System

Ankylosis of the elbow VA Disability Rating

Complete or partial joint fusion in the elbow leading to immobility.

VA Rating Tiers

RatingCriteria
30%Fixed flexion between 90 and 70 degrees
50%Fixed flexion between 70 and 50 degrees
60%Fixed flexion between 50 and 45 degrees
90%Unfavorable ankylosis below 45 degrees or extremely unfavorable

How the VA Evaluates Ankylosis of the elbow

Goniometer measurements, radiographic confirmation.

Approval rate

Moderate

Annual service-connected

1,100 veterans

Average rating

50%

Best Evidence to Gather

  • •X-rays
  • •ROM measurements
  • •Orthopedic notes

Strategy Tips

  • •Include goniometer data
  • •Show functional impact

C&P Exam Pitfalls

  • •Missing joint angle data
  • •No ROM tests

Common Filing Mistakes

  • •Only describing pain
  • •No measurement proof

Onset Patterns

  • •Post-surgical
  • •Trauma-related

Secondary Conditions

Conditions commonly linked to Ankylosis of the elbow. Service-connecting a secondary condition can increase your combined rating.

Common questions about Ankylosis of the elbow

Is Ankylosis of the elbow a VA-rated disability?
Yes. The VA rates Ankylosis of the elbow under VASRD diagnostic code 5208 (Musculoskeletal System). Complete or partial joint fusion in the elbow leading to immobility.
What VA disability rating can I get for Ankylosis of the elbow?
Possible VA ratings for Ankylosis of the elbow are 30%, 50%, 60%, 90%. Examples: 30% — Fixed flexion between 90 and 70 degrees; 50% — Fixed flexion between 70 and 50 degrees; 60% — Fixed flexion between 50 and 45 degrees.
What's the typical VA rating awarded for Ankylosis of the elbow?
The average awarded rating for Ankylosis of the elbow is 50%. Roughly 1,100 veterans are service-connected for Ankylosis of the elbow each year. Typical approval likelihood: Moderate.
What evidence helps prove Ankylosis of the elbow for VA disability?
Strong evidence for a Ankylosis of the elbow claim includes: X-rays; ROM measurements; Orthopedic notes.
What mistakes should veterans avoid when claiming Ankylosis of the elbow?
Common pitfalls when filing for Ankylosis of the elbow: Only describing pain; No measurement proof.
What conditions are commonly secondary to Ankylosis of the elbow?
Conditions often service-connected as secondary to Ankylosis of the elbow include: , , . Filing for secondary conditions can increase a veteran's combined VA rating.

Estimate your combined rating

See how Ankylosis of the elbow combines with your other service-connected conditions using the official VA combined-ratings formula.

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