Long finger, ankylosis of (DC 5226)

Body system: Musculoskeletal SystemRegulation: 38 CFR § 4.71a

This condition involves the complete stiffening (ankylosis) of one of your long fingers - your index, middle, ring, or pinkie finger - where the joints can't bend at all. The VA rates this at just 10% regardless of whether the finger is stuck in a good position (favorable) or bad position (unfavorable), which seems surprisingly low given how much finger stiffness can affect daily tasks. This rating applies to each affected finger separately, so if multiple fingers are involved, you'd get rated for each one.

Rating levels

  • 10% — Your long (middle) finger is completely stiff and cannot bend at any joint (ankylosis means the joint is permanently fused). The rating applies whether the finger is stuck in a functional position for gripping (favorable) or stuck in a poor position that limits hand use (unfavorable).
  • 10% — Your long (middle) finger is completely stiff and cannot bend at any joint (ankylosis means the joint is permanently fused). The rating applies whether the finger is stuck in a functional position for gripping (favorable) or stuck in a poor position that limits hand use (unfavorable).

Disclaimer: This tool is for informational purposes only and is not legal or medical advice. Always consult with your VSO representative or a qualified veterans benefits attorney for guidance on your specific claim.