Ring or little finger, ankylosis of (DC 5227)

Body system: Musculoskeletal SystemRegulation: 38 CFR § 4.71a

Ankylosis of the ring or little finger means your finger joint has become completely stiff and immobile, essentially 'frozen' in one position. The VA rates this condition using a simple 0% rating scale, where you either meet the criteria for ankylosis (complete loss of motion) or you don't - there's no in-between percentage. A 0% rating means the VA recognizes the condition as service-connected but considers it non-compensable, though you'll still be eligible for future increases if the condition worsens.

Rating levels

  • 0% — The VA gives this rating when your ring finger or little finger is completely stiff and cannot bend at any joint (ankylosis means the joint is fused or frozen in place). Whether the finger is stuck in a good position for gripping things (favorable) or stuck in a bad position that makes it harder to use your hand (unfavorable), you receive the same rating. This applies to complete loss of movement in any or all joints of that specific finger.
  • 0% — The VA gives this rating when your ring finger or little finger is completely stiff and cannot bend at any joint (ankylosis means the joint is fused or frozen in place). Whether the finger is stuck in a good position for gripping things (favorable) or stuck in a bad position that makes it harder to use your hand (unfavorable), you receive the same rating. This applies to complete loss of movement in any or all joints of that specific finger.

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.