Ankylosis of the Ring or Little Finger VA Disability Rating

VA Rating Tiers

How the VA Evaluates Ankylosis of the Ring or Little Finger

DC 5227 has one rating row - 'Unfavorable or favorable' - at 0 percent in both the major (dominant) and minor (non-dominant) columns. The code provides no compensable evaluation and states no exception that would raise it. Two other routes are what its note points to: '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.' And where the ring or little finger is ankylosed together with another digit, the rating moves to the multiple-digit codes - DC 5219 rates two digits in unfavorable ankylosis at 20 percent for a pair drawn from the long, ring and little fingers, and DC 5223 rates the same pair in favorable ankylosis at 10 percent.

Vetrify editorial estimates informed by VA published claims data (VBA Annual Benefits Report) and the VA rating schedule — not official VA statistics.

Secondary Conditions

Conditions commonly linked to Ankylosis of the Ring or Little Finger. Service-connecting a secondary condition can increase your combined rating.

• Grip Weakness

  Loss of supporting fingers in grip movement

• Tendon Strain

  Strain on surrounding digits

• Ulnar Nerve Irritation

  Altered finger movement patterns

Common questions about Ankylosis of the Ring or Little Finger

Is Ankylosis of the Ring or Little Finger a VA-rated disability?

Yes. The VA rates Ankylosis of the Ring or Little Finger under VASRD diagnostic code 5227 (Musculoskeletal). The ring or little finger is fixed in one position. DC 5227 is a single 0 percent row: the ankylosis is recognised as a disability but the code awards no compensation for it on its own, whichever hand it is on…

What VA disability rating can I get for Ankylosis of the Ring or Little Finger?

Possible VA ratings for Ankylosis of the Ring or Little Finger are 0%. Examples: 0%: A fused ring or little finger carries a 0 percent rating on its own..

What's the typical VA rating awarded for Ankylosis of the Ring or Little Finger?

Ankylosis of the Ring or Little Finger is most often rated 0% — service-connected but noncompensable — per Vetrify's estimate from VA claims data and the rating schedule. An estimated 3,000 veterans are service-connected for Ankylosis of the Ring or Little Finger. Estimated approval outlook: Low – seldom awarded unles…

What evidence helps prove Ankylosis of the Ring or Little Finger for VA disability?

Strong evidence for a Ankylosis of the Ring or Little Finger claim includes: Orthopedic exam showing range of motion loss; Hand function test scores; Therapy or surgical notes confirming chronic stiffness.

What mistakes should veterans avoid when claiming Ankylosis of the Ring or Little Finger?

Common pitfalls when filing for Ankylosis of the Ring or Little Finger: Assuming all finger stiffness is ratable; No functional limitation shown; Omitting medical documentation.

What conditions are commonly secondary to Ankylosis of the Ring or Little Finger?

Conditions often service-connected as secondary to Ankylosis of the Ring or Little Finger include: Grip Weakness, Tendon Strain, Ulnar Nerve Irritation. Filing for secondary conditions can increase a veteran's combined VA rating.

Official sources

1. 38 CFR § 4.71a — Schedule of ratings — musculoskeletal system (Diagnostic Code 5227)

Rating criteria on this page are an educational summary of the cited regulation — the eCFR text is authoritative. See how Vetrify derives its numbers.