VASRD 5214 · Musculoskeletal System

Ankylosis of the Elbow (major) VA Disability Rating

A condition where the elbow joint is fused and cannot move, often due to injury or arthritis.

VA Rating Tiers

RatingCriteria
60%Elbow stuck in extreme position, limiting use.
50%Elbow stuck at a mid-range angle, but still causes problems.
40%Elbow fused at near-right angle, some function remains.

How the VA Evaluates Ankylosis of the Elbow (major)

Confirmed bony fusion or immobility by radiologic imaging or physical exam.

Approval rate

High – objective imaging typically supports claim.

Annual service-connected

4,600 veterans

Average rating

40%

Best Evidence to Gather

  • •X-ray confirming fusion
  • •Orthopedic surgeon evaluation
  • •Range of motion documentation

Strategy Tips

  • •Document arm position clearly in degrees
  • •Specify dominant or non-dominant side
  • •Provide orthopedic notes and radiographic proof

C&P Exam Pitfalls

  • •Failure to classify joint as favorable or unfavorable position
  • •Missing dominant arm status
  • •No imaging submitted

Common Filing Mistakes

  • •Not identifying position of fusion
  • •No documentation of dominant arm
  • •Missing orthopedic evaluation

Onset Patterns

  • •Common after severe elbow injury or post-surgical fusion
  • •May be caused by long-standing arthritis or joint degeneration

Secondary Conditions

Conditions commonly linked to Ankylosis of the Elbow (major). Service-connecting a secondary condition can increase your combined rating.

  • Shoulder Bursitis

    Compensatory overuse of shoulder

  • Wrist Pain

    Altered arm motion and strain

Common questions about Ankylosis of the Elbow (major)

Is Ankylosis of the Elbow (major) a VA-rated disability?
Yes. The VA rates Ankylosis of the Elbow (major) under VASRD diagnostic code 5214 (Musculoskeletal System). A condition where the elbow joint is fused and cannot move, often due to injury or arthritis.
What VA disability rating can I get for Ankylosis of the Elbow (major)?
Possible VA ratings for Ankylosis of the Elbow (major) are 60%, 50%, 40%. Examples: 60% — Elbow stuck in extreme position, limiting use.; 50% — Elbow stuck at a mid-range angle, but still causes problems.; 40% — Elbow fused at near-right angle, some function remains..
What's the typical VA rating awarded for Ankylosis of the Elbow (major)?
The average awarded rating for Ankylosis of the Elbow (major) is 40%. Roughly 4,600 veterans are service-connected for Ankylosis of the Elbow (major) each year. Typical approval likelihood: High – objective imaging typically supports claim..
What evidence helps prove Ankylosis of the Elbow (major) for VA disability?
Strong evidence for a Ankylosis of the Elbow (major) claim includes: X-ray confirming fusion; Orthopedic surgeon evaluation; Range of motion documentation.
What mistakes should veterans avoid when claiming Ankylosis of the Elbow (major)?
Common pitfalls when filing for Ankylosis of the Elbow (major): Not identifying position of fusion; No documentation of dominant arm; Missing orthopedic evaluation.
What conditions are commonly secondary to Ankylosis of the Elbow (major)?
Conditions often service-connected as secondary to Ankylosis of the Elbow (major) include: Shoulder Bursitis, Wrist Pain. Filing for secondary conditions can increase a veteran's combined VA rating.

Estimate your combined rating

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

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