Ankylosis of Ankle

DC 5270Musculoskeletal38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5270

Complete fusion of the ankle joint, where the ankle is permanently fixed with no remaining motion. This can result from severe arthritis, trauma, infection, or surgical fusion (arthrodesis). The VA rates ankle ankylosis based on the position in which the joint is fixed.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on objective clinical measurements and test results. The examiner will use standardized tests or lab values to determine the severity of your condition rather than relying primarily on subjective symptom reports.

Diagnostic code

DC 5270

Rating range

20% – 40%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5270. 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 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. This is an unfavorable position that severely impairs walking.

What the VA looks for

Ankle fixed in plantar flexion greater than 40 degrees or dorsiflexion greater than 10 degrees
Rotational deformity (inversion/eversion) documented
Severe gait impairment requiring assistive device
Major limitation of all weight-bearing activities

Common Pitfalls

⚠Confusing limited motion with ankylosis — ankylosis means zero motion. If you have even a few degrees of motion, the ankle should be rated under DC 5271 (limited motion) instead.
⚠Not specifying the position of fixation — the examiner must document the exact degrees of plantar flexion or dorsiflexion and any rotational deformity, as the rating depends entirely on position.
⚠Failing to claim loss of use — if the ankle ankylosis is so severe that the foot has no effective function remaining, you may qualify for loss of use and SMC benefits.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Ankle Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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

Ankylosis of Ankle

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 5270

Rating range

20% – 40%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

What the VA looks for

Ankle fixed in plantar flexion greater than 40 degrees or dorsiflexion greater than 10 degrees
Rotational deformity (inversion/eversion) documented
Severe gait impairment requiring assistive device
Major limitation of all weight-bearing activities

Common Pitfalls

⚠Confusing limited motion with ankylosis — ankylosis means zero motion. If you have even a few degrees of motion, the ankle should be rated under DC 5271 (limited motion) instead.

⚠Not specifying the position of fixation — the examiner must document the exact degrees of plantar flexion or dorsiflexion and any rotational deformity, as the rating depends entirely on position.

⚠Failing to claim loss of use — if the ankle ankylosis is so severe that the foot has no effective function remaining, you may qualify for loss of use and SMC benefits.