How the VA Rates Ankle Conditions
The plain-English version of the 38 CFR Part 4, DC 5271 (Limitation of Motion) / 5270 (Ankylosis) criteria a VA rater evaluates Ankle Conditions against, with the 2026 monthly rate at each level. A reference to what the regulation describes — never a prediction of any rating.
Diagnostic codes 5270, 5271, 5272, 5274
The rating levels
Criteria paraphrased from 38 CFR Part 4, DC 5271 (Limitation of Motion) / 5270 (Ankylosis) for readability. Monthly amounts are the 2026 rate (effective December 1, 2025) for a veteran with no dependents if this were the only rated condition — dependents add more, and multiple conditions combine under the VA’s own math.
10%
$180.42/month
DC 5271: Moderate limitation of motion of the ankle (normal dorsiflexion is 0–20 degrees, plantar flexion 0–45 degrees).
Examples from this level’s criteria
- Pain and stiffness limiting dorsiflexion or plantar flexion
- Difficulty walking on uneven ground or climbing stairs
- Swelling after activity
- Occasional giving way
20%
$356.66/month
DC 5271: Marked limitation of motion of the ankle. This is the maximum schedular rating under the limitation-of-motion code.
Examples from this level’s criteria
- Severe restriction of ankle motion
- Antalgic (limping) gait
- Requires brace or assistive device
- Cannot stand or walk for prolonged periods
30%
$552.47/month
DC 5270: Ankylosis of the ankle in plantar flexion between 30 and 40 degrees, or in dorsiflexion between 0 and 10 degrees (ankle fused in a poor functional position).
Examples from this level’s criteria
- Ankle fixed/fused — little or no motion
- Marked alteration of gait
- Cannot walk normally without compensation
40%
$795.84/month
DC 5270: Ankylosis of the ankle in plantar flexion at more than 40 degrees, or in dorsiflexion at more than 10 degrees, or with abduction, adduction, inversion, or eversion deformity.
Examples from this level’s criteria
- Ankle fused in a markedly unfavorable position
- Severe deformity affecting weight-bearing
- Profound impairment of standing and walking
The listed symptoms are examples that appear in each level’s criteria — not a checklist that earns a percentage. Raters apply the criteria as a whole.
The evidence that matters most
Provider's description of moderate vs. marked limitation, backed by range-of-motion measurements — the words 'moderate' and 'marked' carry the rating
C&P exam tips for Ankle Conditions
- What wins this rating: goniometer measurement of dorsiflexion and plantar flexion documented at the worst, and a clear note of whether limitation is 'moderate' (10%) or 'marked' (20%).
- Demonstrate instability or giving-way if present, and bring any bracing documentation.
- Ask the examiner to record additional limitation after repetitive use and during flare-ups.
- Describe impact on walking distance, standing tolerance, and use of stairs.
Common mistakes on Ankle Conditions claims
- Letting the examiner record only a single best-effort measurement rather than functional, repeated-use range.
- Not describing flare-ups and their frequency.
- Expecting more than 20% from limitation of motion alone — higher ratings require ankylosis.
Frequently asked questions
What diagnostic code does the VA use for Ankle Conditions?
Ankle Conditions is rated under 38 CFR Part 4, DC 5271 (Limitation of Motion) / 5270 (Ankylosis) — diagnostic codes 5270, 5271, 5272, 5274.
What is the highest schedular VA rating for Ankle Conditions?
40% is the highest level in the rating schedule for Ankle Conditions. The criteria at that level describe: DC 5270: Ankylosis of the ankle in plantar flexion at more than 40 degrees, or in dorsiflexion at more than 10 degrees, or with abduction, adduction, inversion, or eversion deformity.
How much does a 40% VA rating for Ankle Conditions pay in 2026?
$795.84 per month, tax-free, for a veteran with no dependents (rates effective December 1, 2025) — more with a spouse, children, or dependent parents. If you have other rated conditions, the VA combines ratings using its own math rather than adding them.
Build your Ankle Conditions claim documentation
Your first claim builds free, on screen — a personal statement mapped to these criteria and a cited draft medical opinion. No card to sign up.
Start your claim — freeEducational information about the rating schedule — not legal or medical advice, never a prediction or promise of any rating, and not affiliated with the VA.