Ankylosis of Elbow

DC 5205Musculoskeletal38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5205

Complete fusion of the elbow joint, where the elbow is permanently fixed with no remaining flexion, extension, or rotation. This can result from severe trauma, infection, arthritis, or surgical fusion. The VA rates elbow ankylosis based on the angle of fixation and whether it is the dominant or non-dominant arm.

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 5205

Rating range

40% – 70%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5205. 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 unfavorable ankylosis of the dominant elbow, with the joint fused in full extension or near full extension, or with complete loss of forearm rotation. This represents the most severe elbow ankylosis on the dominant side.

What the VA looks for

Elbow fused in full extension on dominant side
Complete loss of all elbow and forearm motion
Inability to perform self-care activities
Severe occupational impairment
May qualify for loss of use of the hand

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not specifying dominant vs. non-dominant — the rating differs by 10 percent depending on whether the affected elbow is on your dominant (major) or non-dominant (minor) side. Always document your handedness.
⚠Confusing severe limitation with ankylosis — ankylosis requires absolutely zero motion. If you have even a few degrees of flexion or extension, the elbow should be rated under limitation of motion codes instead.
⚠Not requesting loss of use evaluation — if elbow ankylosis in full extension makes the hand effectively useless, you may qualify for loss of use of the hand with SMC benefits.
⚠Forgetting to document the angle — the examiner must measure and record the exact angle at which the elbow is fixed.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Elbow and Forearm Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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

Ankylosis of Elbow

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 5205

Rating range

40% – 70%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

What the VA looks for

Elbow fused in full extension on dominant side
Complete loss of all elbow and forearm motion
Inability to perform self-care activities
Severe occupational impairment
May qualify for loss of use of the hand

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not specifying dominant vs. non-dominant — the rating differs by 10 percent depending on whether the affected elbow is on your dominant (major) or non-dominant (minor) side. Always document your handedness.

⚠Confusing severe limitation with ankylosis — ankylosis requires absolutely zero motion. If you have even a few degrees of flexion or extension, the elbow should be rated under limitation of motion codes instead.

⚠Not requesting loss of use evaluation — if elbow ankylosis in full extension makes the hand effectively useless, you may qualify for loss of use of the hand with SMC benefits.

⚠Forgetting to document the angle — the examiner must measure and record the exact angle at which the elbow is fixed.