VASRD 5231 · Musculoskeletal System

Ankylosis of the Ring or Little Finger VA Disability Rating

Permanent stiffness or joint fusion of the ring or little finger.

VA Rating Tiers

RatingCriteria
0%Stiff pinky or ring finger that doesn’t limit hand use much.

How the VA Evaluates Ankylosis of the Ring or Little Finger

Orthopedic assessment, hand function loss, documented limitations in grip or coordination.

Approval rate

Low – very few cases get compensable ratings unless combined with other hand disabilities.

Annual service-connected

6,100 veterans

Average rating

0%

Best Evidence to Gather

  • •Finger ROM testing by specialist
  • •Grip strength loss evaluation
  • •Hand therapy or rehab documentation

Strategy Tips

  • •Combine with other hand injuries for higher rating
  • •Include clear ROM documentation and functional loss
  • •Photograph hand position or scarring if applicable

C&P Exam Pitfalls

  • •Overstating impact on daily life
  • •Failing to document motion loss clearly
  • •Missing diagnosis of underlying joint fusion

Common Filing Mistakes

  • •Submitting claim without evidence of impact
  • •Not documenting loss of function or imaging results

Onset Patterns

  • •Usually post-fracture or tendon surgery
  • •Can be congenital or arthritis-induced

Secondary Conditions

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

  • Flexor Tendonitis

    Stiffness may strain nearby tendons over time.

  • Decreased Dexterity

    Small finger involvement may hinder fine motor skills.

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 5231 (Musculoskeletal System). Permanent stiffness or joint fusion of the ring or little finger.
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% — Stiff pinky or ring finger that doesn’t limit hand use much..
What's the typical VA rating awarded for Ankylosis of the Ring or Little Finger?
The average awarded rating for Ankylosis of the Ring or Little Finger is 0%. Roughly 6,100 veterans are service-connected for Ankylosis of the Ring or Little Finger each year. Typical approval likelihood: Low – very few cases get compensable ratings unless combined with other hand disabilities..
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: Finger ROM testing by specialist; Grip strength loss evaluation; Hand therapy or rehab documentation.
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: Submitting claim without evidence of impact; Not documenting loss of function or imaging results.
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: Flexor Tendonitis, Decreased Dexterity. Filing for secondary conditions can increase a veteran's combined VA rating.

Estimate your combined rating

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

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