VASRD 5228 · Musculoskeletal System

Ankylosis of the Thumb VA Disability Rating

Ankylosis means the thumb joint is stiff or fixed, limiting grip and hand use.

VA Rating Tiers

RatingCriteria
20%Thumb stuck in position, can't grip objects.
10%Thumb can't move well but still usable.

How the VA Evaluates Ankylosis of the Thumb

Confirmed by orthopedic exam or imaging (X-ray/MRI), showing loss of joint motion and function.

Approval rate

Moderate – better with imaging and functional proof.

Annual service-connected

13,200 veterans

Average rating

10%

Best Evidence to Gather

  • •X-ray or MRI showing fused joint
  • •Hand function tests
  • •Occupational therapy records
  • •Photos of joint position and usage

Strategy Tips

  • •Use hand function tests in evidence
  • •Provide documentation of loss of grip or thumb use
  • •Include history of injury or surgery

C&P Exam Pitfalls

  • •Lack of imaging confirmation
  • •Not documenting specific position of thumb
  • •Inadequate evaluation of hand function

Common Filing Mistakes

  • •Claiming pain without functional impairment
  • •No orthopedic confirmation
  • •Failure to describe how it affects hand use

Onset Patterns

  • •May follow trauma, arthritis, or tendon rupture
  • •Often develops gradually with pain and stiffness

Secondary Conditions

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

  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

    Altered grip mechanics can stress wrist nerves.

  • Tendonitis

    Stiff joints often overcompensate and strain surrounding tissues.

Common questions about Ankylosis of the Thumb

Is Ankylosis of the Thumb a VA-rated disability?
Yes. The VA rates Ankylosis of the Thumb under VASRD diagnostic code 5228 (Musculoskeletal System). Ankylosis means the thumb joint is stiff or fixed, limiting grip and hand use.
What VA disability rating can I get for Ankylosis of the Thumb?
Possible VA ratings for Ankylosis of the Thumb are 20%, 10%. Examples: 20% — Thumb stuck in position, can't grip objects.; 10% — Thumb can't move well but still usable..
What's the typical VA rating awarded for Ankylosis of the Thumb?
The average awarded rating for Ankylosis of the Thumb is 10%. Roughly 13,200 veterans are service-connected for Ankylosis of the Thumb each year. Typical approval likelihood: Moderate – better with imaging and functional proof..
What evidence helps prove Ankylosis of the Thumb for VA disability?
Strong evidence for a Ankylosis of the Thumb claim includes: X-ray or MRI showing fused joint; Hand function tests; Occupational therapy records; Photos of joint position and usage.
What mistakes should veterans avoid when claiming Ankylosis of the Thumb?
Common pitfalls when filing for Ankylosis of the Thumb: Claiming pain without functional impairment; No orthopedic confirmation; Failure to describe how it affects hand use.
What conditions are commonly secondary to Ankylosis of the Thumb?
Conditions often service-connected as secondary to Ankylosis of the Thumb include: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Tendonitis. Filing for secondary conditions can increase a veteran's combined VA rating.

Estimate your combined rating

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

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