Ankle Limitation of Motion

DC 5271Musculoskeletal38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5271

Limited ability to move your ankle up and down. The VA rates ankle limitation of motion based on whether the limitation is moderate or marked.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition primarily based on range-of-motion measurements. During your C&P exam, the examiner will use a goniometer to measure how far you can move the affected joint. Pain, flare-ups, and repetitive-use limitations also factor into the final rating.

Diagnostic code

DC 5271

Rating range

10% – 20%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5271. This guide presents a plain-language summary and is not a substitute for the full regulatory text. Always consult a VSO or VA-accredited attorney for case-specific advice.

Rating Levels

You have marked limitation of ankle motion. This is the maximum rating under this code.

What the VA looks for

Marked limitation of dorsiflexion and/or plantar flexion
Significant functional impairment
Difficulty walking or standing
Pain on motion throughout range

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not understanding the difference between "moderate" and "marked" limitation — there are no specific degree thresholds, so document exactly how limited your motion is compared to normal (dorsiflexion 20 degrees, plantar flexion 45 degrees).
⚠Not reporting DeLuca factors — pain on motion, weakened movement, excess fatigability, and flare-ups can support a higher rating even with borderline range of motion.
⚠Not filing for ankle instability separately if your ankle gives way or rolls — instability may be rated under a different code.
⚠Not connecting ankle problems to knee, hip, or back conditions caused by altered gait as secondary claims.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Ankle Conditions

View evidence checklist →C&P exam prep guide →See secondary conditions →

Related Conditions

Conditions commonly associated with Ankle Limitation of Motion or rated under the same body system.

Plantar Fasciitis (Foot Pain)

DC 5276·Musculoskeletal·Possible secondary

Knee Limitation of Flexion

DC 5260·Musculoskeletal·Possible secondary

Lumbar Strain (Low Back Pain)

DC 5237·Musculoskeletal·Possible secondary

Flatfoot (Pes Planus)

DC 5276·Musculoskeletal·Related primary

Cervical Strain (Neck Pain)

DC 5237·Musculoskeletal

Knee Limitation of Extension

DC 5261·Musculoskeletal

Knee Instability (Subluxation)

DC 5257·Musculoskeletal

Degenerative Arthritis (Osteoarthritis)

DC 5003·Musculoskeletal

Condition Rating Guides

Understand what the VA looks for at each rating level — loading conditions…

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 5271

Rating range

10% – 20%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have marked limitation of ankle motion. This is the maximum rating under this code.

What the VA looks for

Marked limitation of dorsiflexion and/or plantar flexion
Significant functional impairment
Difficulty walking or standing
Pain on motion throughout range

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not understanding the difference between "moderate" and "marked" limitation — there are no specific degree thresholds, so document exactly how limited your motion is compared to normal (dorsiflexion 20 degrees, plantar flexion 45 degrees).

⚠Not reporting DeLuca factors — pain on motion, weakened movement, excess fatigability, and flare-ups can support a higher rating even with borderline range of motion.

⚠Not filing for ankle instability separately if your ankle gives way or rolls — instability may be rated under a different code.

⚠Not connecting ankle problems to knee, hip, or back conditions caused by altered gait as secondary claims.