How VA rates wrist condition
VA rates wrist ankylosis under 38 CFR § 4.71a, DC 5214 and limitation of motion under DC 5215. Ankylosis percentages differ for the major/dominant and minor wrist.
Plate I: wrist dorsiflexion 0–70°, palmar flexion 0–80°, ulnar deviation 0–45°, radial deviation 0–20°.
Rating criteria from the tool data
| Rating | What VA looks for |
|---|---|
| 10% | DC 5215: dorsiflexion less than 15° or palmar flexion limited in line with forearm, either wrist |
| 20–50% | DC 5214: favorable through unfavorable ankylosis, based on position and major/minor side |
DBQ and symptom topics to review
Review these topics against your own records and symptoms. Do not exaggerate or minimize; describe functional impact accurately.
- Wrist dorsiflexion less than 15 degrees10%DC 5215
- Palmar flexion limited in line with the forearm10%DC 5215
- Favorable wrist ankylosis at 20 to 30 degrees dorsiflexion, dominant hand30%DC 5214
- Unfavorable wrist ankylosis, dominant hand50%DC 5214
What may happen in the exam room
- Goniometer ROM in four directions
- Active/passive and repetitive-use testing
- Grip and dexterity testing
- Inspection for ankylosis, swelling, scars, or nerve signs
Measurements and findings to understand
- Dorsiflexion and palmar flexion
- Radial and ulnar deviation
- Pain onset and post-repetition loss
- Dominant versus nondominant side
Questions the examiner may cover
- Which wrist and which hand is dominant?
- How do symptoms affect lifting, typing, tools, or push-off?
- Do braces or splints help?
- What happens after repetitive use?
Functional-impact language to think through
Use plain, truthful wording that matches your records and daily limitations. These examples are prompts for accuracy, not scripts.
- Describe the motion that first causes pain.
- Explain grip and weight-bearing limits.
- Describe flare frequency and duration.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Pushing through the painful endpoint
- Omitting the dominant side
- Failing to separate wrist symptoms from hand or nerve symptoms
Evidence to organize before the exam
- Wrist Conditions DBQ
- Imaging and orthopedic records
- Brace prescription
- Therapy ROM and grip measurements
Preparation notes
- Bring the brace you normally use.
- Describe actual daily limits without forcing ROM.
DeLuca and flare-up notes
Painful motion: Report pain onset, weakness, fatigue, and flare-related loss under 38 CFR §§ 4.40, 4.45, and 4.59.
Official rating source
38 CFR 4.71a, DCs 5214-5215. Checked 2026-09-04. Educational preparation only; not a personal rating.