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C&P Exam Prep: Ring or Little Finger Ankylosis
DBQ Overview
Interview + Physical- Form Name
- Hand_and_Finger
- Form Code
- Hand_and_Finger
- Page Count
- 17
- Examiner Type
- Physician or Physician Assistant
- Estimated Duration
- 30-45 minutes
- Exam Format
- Interview + Physical
What to Expect During Your Exam
Exam Overview
To document the nature, severity, and functional impact of ankylosis (abnormal stiffness or fusion) of the ring finger and/or little finger under 38 CFR 4.71a DC 5227. The examiner will determine whether ankylosis is favorable or unfavorable, assess the gap between fingertip and the proximal transverse crease of the palm, and evaluate whether an amputation rating or additional evaluation for limitation of motion of other digits may be more favorable.
What the examiner evaluates:
- Which specific finger(s) are ankylosed - ring finger, little finger, or both
- Which joint(s) are ankylosed - MCP (metacarpophalangeal) and/or PIP (proximal interphalangeal)
- Whether ankylosis is favorable or unfavorable based on the gap measurement between fingertip and proximal transverse palmar crease
- Active and passive range of motion of all finger joints on the affected hand
- Whether both MCP and PIP joints are simultaneously ankylosed (which triggers unfavorable classification regardless of position)
- Presence of rotation, angulation, or malposition of the ankylosed digit
- Functional impact on hand grip and overall hand function
- Whether rating as an amputation equivalent would produce a higher evaluation
- Limitation of motion in other digits caused by the ankylosis
- Pain, weakness, fatigability, and incoordination as DeLuca factors
- Dominant hand status
- Use of any assistive devices or braces
Exam will include physical manipulation of the affected finger(s). The examiner will measure the gap between your fingertip(s) and the proximal transverse crease of the palm while you flex your finger as far as possible. Bring any splints, braces, or assistive devices you use. You have the right to request the exam be recorded in most states - check your state laws beforehand.
Typical duration: 30-45 minutes
Fingertip-to-Proximal Transverse Palmar Crease Gap (Ankylosis Position Test)
The distance in centimeters between the ankylosed fingertip and the proximal transverse crease of the palm when the finger is flexed as far as possible. This is the single most critical measurement determining favorable vs. unfavorable ankylosis classification.
What to expect:
The examiner will ask you to bend your ankylosed finger as far as you are able toward the palm, then measure the straight-line gap between the tip of the finger and the proximal transverse palmar crease using a ruler or goniometer. This is performed on the affected digit(s). Both active and passive attempts may be assessed.
Key thresholds:
- Gap of 5.1 cm (2 inches) or less — Favorable ankylosis - 0% under DC 5227 (but amputation equivalent or other digit limitation may still yield a rating)
- Gap greater than 5.1 cm (more than 2 inches) — Unfavorable ankylosis - 0% under DC 5227 (but amputation equivalent or other digit limitation may yield higher evaluation)
- Both MCP and PIP joints ankylosed simultaneously — Automatically classified as unfavorable regardless of individual joint position; also consider amputation equivalent rating under DC 5153-5156
- Both MCP and PIP ankylosed with either in extension or full flexion, OR rotation/angulation present — May warrant amputation equivalent evaluation under DC 5153-5156, potentially higher than 0%
Tips:
- Do not force your finger beyond what you can comfortably achieve - describe any pain during the attempt
- Perform this measurement on your worst day or closest approximation - if your condition varies, tell the examiner
- Be sure the examiner measures from the correct landmark: the proximal transverse crease of the palm, not the middle crease
- If you use a splint that holds the finger in a particular position, let the examiner know what position the finger naturally rests in when the splint is removed
Pain considerations: If moving the finger toward the palm causes pain, state this clearly during the measurement. Pain during the attempt is relevant to functional loss even if the gap appears small.
Active Range of Motion - Ring/Little Finger MCP and PIP Joints
The degree of voluntary flexion and extension at the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) and proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joints of the affected finger(s). Normal MCP flexion is approximately 90 degrees; PIP flexion is approximately 100 degrees.
What to expect:
You will be asked to bend (flex) and straighten (extend) each joint of the affected finger as far as possible. The examiner will record the degrees of motion. For ankylosis, motion will typically be zero or near-zero at the fused joint.
Key thresholds:
- 0 degrees of motion at MCP or PIP joint — Confirms ankylosis at that joint; examiner must then determine favorable vs. unfavorable based on gap measurement and joint position
- Reduced but non-zero motion — May indicate incomplete ankylosis or severe limitation of motion - could be rated under DC 5229 or related codes if more favorable
Tips:
- Perform range of motion on your worst day - describe if today is better or worse than typical
- Mention any warm-up effect if motion is slightly better after the joint has been moved a few times
- Report pain at any point during the motion - pain on motion is a DeLuca factor that supports functional loss
Pain considerations: Per DeLuca v. Brown, pain on motion must be considered and can support a higher effective rating even when measured ROM appears to be within a compensable range for other digits. Clearly state when each motion causes pain.
Passive Range of Motion - Ring/Little Finger
The range of motion achievable when the examiner gently moves the finger without your muscle effort. Per Correia requirements, passive ROM must be compared to active ROM.
What to expect:
The examiner will gently move your finger through its range without you actively contracting muscles. This is compared to active ROM to assess the degree of structural fixation vs. pain-limited motion.
Key thresholds:
- Passive ROM equals active ROM with no increase — Supports true structural ankylosis rather than pain-guarded limitation
- Passive ROM greater than active ROM — May indicate pain-limited rather than true bony ankylosis - important distinction for diagnosis
Tips:
- If the examiner moves the finger passively and it causes pain, say so immediately
- Do not force the finger through a greater range of motion - this could misrepresent your true condition
Pain considerations: Pain during passive motion is significant clinical information. Report it accurately and describe its character (sharp, aching, burning) and location (which joint).
Repetitive Use Testing
Whether repeated use of the hand causes additional loss of range of motion, increased pain, weakness, or fatigue - a key DeLuca factor.
What to expect:
The examiner may ask you to perform repetitive gripping, pinching, or finger movements and then reassess ROM or symptoms. More commonly, you will be asked to describe how your condition worsens with use.
Key thresholds:
- Increased pain or loss of motion after repetitive use — Supports additional functional loss documentation under DeLuca factors; can affect overall hand function evaluation
Tips:
- Describe specific daily activities that worsen your symptoms: typing, gripping tools, opening containers, buttoning clothing
- Quantify how long you can perform an activity before symptoms worsen: 'After 10 minutes of typing, my grip weakens significantly'
- Describe recovery time needed after activity
Pain considerations: Describe the full DeLuca picture: pain with use, fatigue after sustained use, weakness that develops over time, and how these affect your ability to complete tasks.
Hand Grip Strength
The overall strength of hand grip, which may be reduced due to ankylosis of the ring or little finger and their role in grip mechanics.
What to expect:
The examiner may use a dynamometer or manual assessment to evaluate grip strength bilaterally (both hands) for comparison. The ring and little fingers are primary grip contributors - their ankylosis directly impacts grip force.
Key thresholds:
- Significantly reduced grip on affected side compared to unaffected side — Supports overall hand function impairment; may contribute to evaluation of interference with overall hand function per DC 5227 note
Tips:
- Perform with your dominant hand status in mind - impairment of the dominant hand may carry additional significance
- Report any pain during grip testing
- Describe how reduced grip affects daily activities: inability to open jars, difficulty with tools, problems carrying objects
Pain considerations: Grip testing can be painful. If it causes pain, state this clearly. Do not grip harder than you can do without causing yourself pain - accuracy is more important than effort.
Joint Position Assessment (Ankylosis Position)
The angle at which the ankylosed joint is fixed - whether it is in a neutral/functional position (favorable) or in extension, full flexion, rotation, or angulation (unfavorable).
What to expect:
The examiner will observe and document the fixed position of the ankylosed MCP and/or PIP joint. Rotation and angulation will be specifically noted. This directly determines favorable vs. unfavorable classification and whether an amputation equivalent may apply.
Key thresholds:
- Fixed in functional (mid-range flexion) position — Potentially favorable - lower gap measurements may still apply
- Fixed in full extension (straight/0 degrees) or full flexion — Unfavorable - and if both MCP and PIP are affected this way, amputation equivalent rating may apply
- Rotation or angulation of the bone present — Unfavorable - amputation equivalent rating must be considered
Tips:
- Make sure the examiner documents the exact position in degrees, not just 'ankylosed'
- If your finger angles toward or away from adjacent fingers, point this out explicitly
- If the position causes the finger to interfere with adjacent fingers during use, describe this
Pain considerations: The fixed position itself may cause chronic pain by placing constant stress on surrounding structures. Describe any ongoing pain even at rest.
Muscle Atrophy Assessment
Whether there is muscle wasting (atrophy) in the hand or fingers due to disuse from the ankylosis.
What to expect:
The examiner may measure the circumference of the forearm or hand and compare bilaterally, or visually assess for thenar/hypothenar atrophy.
Key thresholds:
- Measurable circumference difference between affected and unaffected side — Supports additional functional loss and overall severity documentation
Tips:
- Point out any visible wasting you have noticed in your hand muscles
- Mention if you have been unable to use your hand normally and for how long - this explains any atrophy found
Pain considerations: Atrophy-related weakness can contribute to pain with use as remaining muscles overcompensate. Describe this pattern if present.
Rating Criteria Breakdown
| Rating % | Criteria | Key Symptoms |
|---|---|---|
| 0% | Ankylosis of the ring finger and/or little finger - both favorable and unfavorable ankylosis are rated at 0% under DC 5227. However, the examiner must evaluate whether: (1) an amputation equivalent rating under DC 5153-5156 would yield a higher evaluation (particularly when both MCP and PIP joints are ankylosed in an unfavorable position, with extension/full flexion, rotation, or angulation), and (2) an additional evaluation is warranted for limitation of motion of adjacent digits or interference with overall hand function. |
CFR: 38 CFR 4.71a DC 5227: 'Ring or little finger, ankylosis of: Unfavorable or favorable 0 0. Note: 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.' |
0% Ankylosis of the ring finger and/or little finger - both fav ...
Ankylosis of the ring finger and/or little finger - both favorable and unfavorable ankylosis are rated at 0% under DC 5227. However, the examiner must evaluate whether: (1) an amputation equivalent rating under DC 5153-5156 would yield a higher evaluation (particularly when both MCP and PIP joints are ankylosed in an unfavorable position, with extension/full flexion, rotation, or angulation), and (2) an additional evaluation is warranted for limitation of motion of adjacent digits or interference with overall hand function.
Key Symptoms
- Complete immobility at MCP joint, PIP joint, or both
- Fixed joint position - either favorable (-5.1 cm gap) or unfavorable (>5.1 cm gap)
- Both MCP and PIP ankylosed simultaneously (automatically unfavorable)
- Rotation or angulation of the ankylosed digit
- Fixed in full extension or full flexion
- Reduced grip strength
- Interference with function of adjacent fingers
- Pain, weakness, and fatigability with use
CFR: 38 CFR 4.71a DC 5227: 'Ring or little finger, ankylosis of: Unfavorable or favorable 0 0. Note: 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.'
How to Describe Your Symptoms
Joint Immobility and Fixed Position
How to describe:
Describe the specific finger(s) affected, which joint(s) are fixed, and the position the finger is locked in. Be precise: 'My right little finger is completely locked at the knuckle closest to my hand - the MCP joint - and it sits bent at about 30 degrees and will not move at all. I cannot straighten it or bend it further regardless of how hard I try or how much it hurts to try.'
Worst-day example:
“On my worst days, even attempting to move the finger sends sharp pain through the entire hand, and the stiffness seems to spread so that my ring finger also becomes difficult to move. I cannot close my hand into a full fist because the locked little finger physically blocks adjacent fingers.”
What the examiner listens for:
Specificity about which joint is fused, whether motion is truly zero, whether the fusion interferes with adjacent digit motion, and whether the fixed position causes functional interference during daily tasks.
Understatements to avoid:
Do not say 'it's a little stiff' when the joint is truly ankylosed. If there is zero motion, say 'I have no movement at all at that joint - it does not move even a fraction of a degree.'
Fingertip-to-Palm Gap and Functional Grip
How to describe:
Describe how far your finger can reach toward your palm when you try to make a fist, and how this affects your ability to grip objects. 'When I try to curl my ring finger toward my palm, the fingertip stops more than two inches away from the crease at the base of my fingers. I cannot wrap my finger around objects - I cannot grip a hammer handle, a steering wheel, or a full water bottle with a normal grip.'
Worst-day example:
“On bad days my grip is so weak that I drop items I should be able to hold - cups, tools, even a pen. My ring finger and little finger contribute nothing to my grip because they cannot curl properly. I have adapted by using only my thumb and first two fingers, which fatigues those fingers and causes additional pain.”
What the examiner listens for:
The actual functional gap between fingertip and palm, specific grip-dependent activities the veteran cannot perform, and how the fixed finger position interacts with adjacent digits.
Understatements to avoid:
Do not demonstrate your best possible grip at the exam if it does not represent your typical function. If your grip is normally weak and painful, do not push through the pain to appear more capable.
Pain - At Rest, With Motion, and With Use (DeLuca Factor)
How to describe:
Describe pain in three contexts: at rest, when attempting to move the ankylosed finger, and during activities that require grip or finger use. Use specific descriptors: location, character (sharp, aching, burning, throbbing), intensity (0-10 scale), and what makes it worse or better.
Worst-day example:
“On my worst days, my little finger throbs constantly even when I am sitting still - a 5 or 6 out of 10 at rest. When I accidentally bump it or try to grip something, the pain spikes to an 8 or 9 and radiates up into my hand and wrist. I have been woken from sleep by the pain when I rolled onto my hand. On these days I cannot use my right hand for anything that requires gripping - I cannot type, button my shirt, or hold a cup of coffee.”
What the examiner listens for:
Pain that is present at rest (not just with movement), pain that limits the duration of activities, pain that wakes the veteran from sleep, and pain that has changed the veteran's daily routine.
Understatements to avoid:
Veterans often say 'it's not that bad' or minimize pain to appear stoic. The examiner is required to document pain on motion under DeLuca. If it hurts, say so every time it hurts during the exam.
Weakness and Fatigability (DeLuca Factor)
How to describe:
Describe reduced grip strength and how quickly your hand fatigues with use. Quantify: 'I can grip a tool for about 5 minutes before my hand weakens so much I have to stop. After 20 minutes of rest, I might be able to do another 5 minutes. I cannot sustain grip for any extended period.'
Worst-day example:
“On my worst days I cannot hold a full cup of coffee without it feeling like my hand will give out. Even tying my shoes requires me to stop and rest my hand mid-task because of the weakness. Typing for more than a few minutes causes my entire hand to ache and the grip muscles to cramp.”
What the examiner listens for:
How quickly weakness develops with use, whether weakness is present even at low-demand tasks, and how weakness has changed the veteran's work and daily life.
Understatements to avoid:
Do not say 'my grip is fine' if you have significantly adapted your activities to avoid gripping. Compensation strategies mask the true impairment.
Incoordination and Fine Motor Impairment (DeLuca Factor)
How to describe:
Describe any difficulty with fine motor tasks that require the ring or little finger: buttoning clothes, typing, picking up small objects, playing musical instruments, handling money. 'I can no longer button the cuffs of my shirt with my right hand. I have dropped my phone multiple times because my little finger cannot properly support objects in my palm. I can no longer play guitar because my little finger is locked in a position that prevents proper chord formation.'
Worst-day example:
“On bad days, tasks requiring fine motor control are nearly impossible. Writing by hand causes immediate cramping. I have to use my other hand for almost everything that previously required both hands.”
What the examiner listens for:
Specific fine motor tasks impaired, whether the impairment is bilateral or unilateral, and how impairment affects occupational tasks.
Understatements to avoid:
Do not minimize fine motor impairment by demonstrating your most careful slow attempt during the exam. Your typical daily performance - rushed, distracted, fatigued - is what matters.
Flare-Ups (DeLuca Factor)
How to describe:
Describe the frequency, duration, triggers, and severity of episodes where your symptoms are significantly worse than baseline. 'I have flare-ups about 2-3 times per week, usually triggered by overusing my hand or by cold weather. During a flare-up, the entire hand swells, the pain increases to a 7-8 out of 10, and I cannot use my hand at all for 24-48 hours. I have missed work and been unable to perform household tasks during these episodes.'
Worst-day example:
“My worst flare-up this year lasted four days. I could not prepare my own meals, type, or drive. I required help with basic daily tasks. My hand swelled noticeably and heat from even warm water caused intense pain.”
What the examiner listens for:
Frequency and duration of flare-ups, specific triggers, what makes flare-ups better, whether flare-ups cause additional loss of motion beyond baseline, and functional impact during flare-ups.
Understatements to avoid:
If you currently have relatively mild symptoms on exam day, explicitly tell the examiner: 'Today is a better day than usual. My condition fluctuates significantly and this exam does not represent my typical function.'
Interference with Adjacent Digits and Overall Hand Function
How to describe:
The DC 5227 note specifically instructs examiners to consider whether additional ratings are warranted for limitation of motion of other digits or interference with overall hand function. Clearly describe how your ankylosed ring or little finger limits the motion or use of adjacent fingers: 'My locked little finger physically prevents my ring finger from fully flexing because they catch on each other. My ring finger range of motion is also limited as a result.'
Worst-day example:
“When my little finger is fixed in a semi-extended position, it forces my ring finger into an unnatural angle when I try to grip anything. Both fingers are then painful and my grip is less than half of normal.”
What the examiner listens for:
Whether the ankylosed digit restricts motion or function of adjacent digits, whether overall hand function (grip, pinch, opposition) is compromised beyond just the ankylosed digit.
Understatements to avoid:
Do not assume the examiner will independently notice secondary effects on adjacent digits. Explicitly describe the cascading functional impact.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Assuming a 0% rating means no other evaluation is possible
DC 5227 explicitly notes that amputation equivalent ratings (DC 5153-5156) must be considered, and additional evaluations for limitation of motion of adjacent digits or overall hand function interference may be warranted. Veterans who only receive a 0% rating for ankylosis may be leaving significant additional ratings on the table.
Instead: Ensure the examiner documents: (1) whether both MCP and PIP joints are ankylosed, (2) the exact position of ankylosis, (3) whether rotation or angulation is present, and (4) whether adjacent finger ROM is limited. Request that the examiner specifically address the DC 5227 note in their opinion.
Impact: 0% base + potential additional ratings under DC 5153-5156 or adjacent digit codes
Not describing interference with adjacent fingers
The DC 5227 note requires the examiner to consider additional ratings for limitation of motion of other digits. If the veteran does not mention that adjacent fingers are affected, the examiner may not evaluate those digits or document the functional connection.
Instead: Before the exam, practice flexing your hand and identifying which adjacent fingers are limited in motion due to the ankylosed digit. Describe this explicitly: 'My ring finger's range of motion is limited because my little finger physically obstructs its movement.'
Impact: Potential additional ratings for adjacent digit limitation of motion
Performing at maximum effort during gap measurement
The gap measurement between fingertip and proximal transverse palmar crease is the single most critical measurement distinguishing favorable from unfavorable classification. Veterans who push through pain to flex more than they normally can may appear to have a smaller gap than truly exists on a typical day.
Instead: Flex only to the degree you can achieve without significant pain on a typical day. If today is a better day, say so. Describe your usual maximum flexion before the exam begins.
Impact: Favorable vs. unfavorable classification and amputation equivalent consideration
Failing to mention rotation or angulation of the ankylosed digit
Rotation or angulation of the ankylosed bone triggers the amputation equivalent consideration under DC 5153-5156, which can yield a higher rating than the base 0% for DC 5227. Veterans may not know this feature is clinically significant.
Instead: Before your exam, examine your ankylosed finger. Does it twist? Does it point to the side rather than straight? Is the fingernail rotated relative to adjacent fingers? Point these features out to the examiner explicitly.
Impact: Amputation equivalent rating under DC 5153-5156
Not describing symptoms as they exist on a worst or typical day
C&P exam day may coincidentally be a better day. Examiners can only document what they observe. A veteran who appears functional on exam day may receive a lower evaluation than their actual worst-day or typical-day condition warrants.
Instead: Begin the exam by saying: 'Before we start, I want to note that today may be [better/worse/typical] compared to my average day. My condition fluctuates and I want to make sure I accurately describe my typical and worst-day symptoms.' Use specific comparisons: 'Usually I can only flex this far - today I was able to flex a little more because the weather is warm and I rested yesterday.'
Impact: All rating levels - affects the overall picture of severity
Not mentioning dominant hand status
The DBQ specifically captures dominant hand. Ankylosis of the dominant hand carries greater functional significance and may influence how the examiner documents overall functional impact.
Instead: Immediately inform the examiner of your dominant hand at the start of the exam. If the affected hand is your dominant hand, emphasize how this has forced you to adapt or rely on the non-dominant hand.
Impact: Overall functional loss documentation and potential combined evaluations
Minimizing pain by not vocalizing it during the physical exam
DeLuca requires that pain on motion be documented and considered. If a veteran winces but does not verbally report pain during ROM testing or the gap measurement, the examiner may not document it.
Instead: Every time you feel pain during the exam, say it out loud: 'That motion causes pain' or 'Flexing to that point is painful - about a 6 out of 10.' Do not assume the examiner can see or infer your pain.
Impact: DeLuca factors affecting all measurements and overall functional loss documentation
Forgetting to bring documentation of the ankylosed position and prior treatment history
The examiner will document evidence reviewed. X-rays, operative reports, medical records showing the diagnosis, position of ankylosis, and prior treatment provide objective corroboration of your subjective report.
Instead: Bring copies of relevant X-rays, surgical reports, physical therapy notes, and any specialist evaluations. Note the dates and facilities where treatment occurred so the examiner can reference them in the DBQ.
Impact: Service connection evidence and severity documentation
Prep Checklist
Before Your Exam
Day Of
During the Exam
After the Exam
Your Rights During a C&P Exam
- You have the right to a thorough and accurate C&P examination - the examiner must address all aspects of your claimed condition, including the DC 5227 note requiring consideration of amputation equivalent ratings and adjacent digit limitation of motion.
- You have the right to request a new or supplemental examination if the DBQ is inadequate, inaccurate, or fails to address the required rating considerations under DC 5227.
- In most states, you have the right to record your C&P examination - verify your state's recording consent laws before the exam.
- You have the right to submit a personal statement, buddy statements, and lay evidence describing your symptoms, functional limitations, and worst-day experiences - this evidence must be considered by the rater.
- You have the right to a copy of the completed DBQ and all examination records through a records request.
- Per DeLuca v. Brown, the examiner must consider and document pain on motion, weakness, fatigability, and incoordination - not only the measured degrees of range of motion.
- Per Correia v. McDonald, the examiner must test and compare active ROM, passive ROM, and note whether they differ.
- You have the right to bring a representative, VSO, or support person to the exam - check with the VA facility about their specific policy for observers.
- You have the right to refuse specific examination maneuvers that would cause you significant harm, though you should communicate this clearly to the examiner.
- If you believe the examination was inadequate, you can file a Notice of Disagreement or request a Board of Veterans' Appeals hearing where you can present additional evidence and testimony.
- You are entitled to the benefit of the doubt - when there is an approximate balance of positive and negative evidence, the VA must resolve the question in your favor (38 CFR 3.102).
- The examiner must address the specific note in DC 5227 regarding amputation equivalent evaluation and additional evaluation for adjacent digit limitation - failure to do so can be grounds for a new examination request.
Related Conditions
- Long Finger Ankylosis Similar diagnostic code (DC 5226) for ankylosis of the long (middle) finger, rated at 10% for favorable or unfavorable ankylosis. If multiple fingers are ankylosed, each digit may be rated separately under its respective diagnostic code.
- Index Finger Ankylosis Similar diagnostic code (DC 5225) for ankylosis of the index finger, rated at 10% for favorable or unfavorable. Higher rated digit ankyloses may be evaluated concurrently with ring or little finger ankylosis.
- Amputation - Ring or Little Finger DC 5227 requires the examiner to consider whether an amputation equivalent rating (DC 5153 5156) would yield a higher evaluation when ankylosis is unfavorable particularly when both MCP and PIP joints are ankylosed in extension, full flexion, or with rotation/angulation.
- Limitation of Motion of Individual Digits DC 5227 notes require evaluation of adjacent digits for resulting limitation of motion. If the ring or little finger ankylosis causes reduced ROM in the adjacent long finger or ring finger, those digits may be separately evaluated under DC 5229 or related codes.
- Degenerative Arthritis of the Hand Post traumatic or degenerative arthritis is a common underlying cause of finger ankylosis. If arthritis is separately documented and causes limitation of motion in multiple joints, it may be rated under DC 5003 either separately or as the underlying diagnosis.
- Post-Traumatic Arthritis of the Hand If the ankylosis resulted from trauma and subsequent arthritis, post traumatic arthritis (DC 5010 referencing DC 5003) may be the underlying diagnosis supporting the ankylosis claim.
- Dupuytren's Contracture Dupuytren's contracture is a common cause of ring and little finger flexion contracture that can progress to functional ankylosis. If present, it may be rated separately or as the underlying cause of ankylosis.
- Trigger Finger Trigger finger (stenosing tenosynovitis) affecting the ring or little finger can coexist with or contribute to reduced motion and may be separately evaluated if present.
- Wrist Limitation of Motion Conditions causing finger ankylosis may also affect the wrist. Wrist limitation of motion is evaluated separately under DC 5215 and could be claimed as a secondary condition if the same injury or disease process is responsible.
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This C&P exam preparation guide is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal, medical, or claims advice. Always consult with a qualified Veterans Service Organization (VSO) representative or VA-accredited attorney for guidance specific to your claim. Never exaggerate, minimize, or fabricate symptoms during a C&P examination.