ANKLE - Left and Right
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.
Step 1. Helpful Videos
Please review the video’s that demonstrate the range of motion.
Plantar Flexion
For the Plantar Flexion – Your foot is flat on the ground. Bend your ankle moving your heel upwards. How far can you move your heel up without any pain or discomfort on the worst day, what the VA calls a Flare Up? 0 inches, 1 inch, 2 inches, 3 inches or 4 inches?
Dorsiflexion
Ankle Dorsiflexion Keep your heel on the ground. Bend your ankle moving your toes upwards. How far can you move your toes up without any pain or discomfort on the worst day, what the VA calls a Flare Up? 1 in, 2 inches, 3 inches or 4 inches?
If you had a total joint replacement on an ankle, you cannot have a rating for Plantar Flexion or Dorsiflexion. If your surgery was within the last 12 months, contact the VA. You may be eligible for a temporary 100% rating during recovery post-surgery. For residual effects post recovery, this quiz may identify a residual rating.
Step 2: Review the 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.
You will complete the RIGHT Ankle, then the LEFT Ankle. Please select NOT APPLICABLE if you do not have pain.
The ankle can have 1 Rating. The highest of Plantar Flexion or Extension, or Total Joint Replacement.
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).