ANKLE - Right and Left
The code used to rate other ankle conditions, such as arthritis is typically, but not always, Diagnostic Code 5270. The specific rating (0%, 10%, 20%, etc.) depends on the degree of limitation in the ankle’s range of motion. (38 CFR § 4.71)
Ankles are based on limitations for 2 ankle range of motions – Flexion and Dorsiflexion.
Please read the instructions and review the pictures, then proceed to the quiz questions.
REMEMBER: The VA rating system determines the severity based on your Range of Motion on a “Flare-Up”. Consider a Flare-Up as the worst day in the last year.
Key Factors:
The VA evaluates ankle disabilities primarily under the Schedule for Rating Disabilities, depending on the condition’s severity, range of motion, and associated symptoms.
Common Diagnoses That May Apply
- Ankle sprain with chronic instability
- Osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease (DJD)
- Post-traumatic arthritis
- Achilles tendon injury or rupture
- Post-surgical conditions (fusion, screws, arthroscopy)
- Pain on movement (38 CFR §4.59)
- Instability or dislocation may also be considered under functional impairment.
Bilateral conditions (both ankles) may qualify for bilateral factor adjustments (38 CFR §4.26).
[ankle_quiz step="left"]