Carpometacarpal Arthritis (Thumb CMC Joint)

DC 5010Musculoskeletal38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5010

Arthritis at the base of the thumb where it connects to the wrist (the CMC joint). This causes pain, weakness, and difficulty gripping or pinching. The VA rates thumb CMC arthritis based on limitation of motion and painful motion of the thumb.

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 5010

Rating range

10% – 20%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5010. 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 significant limitation of thumb motion with a gap of more than two inches between the thumb pad and the fingers when trying to oppose. Your thumb function is severely impaired for gripping, pinching, and daily activities.

What the VA looks for

X-ray showing advanced CMC joint arthritis
Gap of more than 2 inches on opposition
Severe grip and pinch weakness documented
Functional impairment in daily activities

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting X-rays of the thumb CMC joint specifically — general hand X-rays may not adequately show the base of the thumb joint, so request a dedicated thumb view.
⚠Not documenting the gap measurement between thumb pad and fingers — this specific measurement determines your rating level and must be recorded during the C&P exam.
⚠Not specifying whether the dominant or non-dominant hand is affected — the VA applies different ratings for the major (dominant) versus minor hand for some thumb conditions.
⚠Not claiming bilateral CMC arthritis if both thumbs are affected — each thumb should be rated separately.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Hand and Finger Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 5010

Rating range

10% – 20%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

What the VA looks for

X-ray showing advanced CMC joint arthritis
Gap of more than 2 inches on opposition
Severe grip and pinch weakness documented
Functional impairment in daily activities

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting X-rays of the thumb CMC joint specifically — general hand X-rays may not adequately show the base of the thumb joint, so request a dedicated thumb view.

⚠Not documenting the gap measurement between thumb pad and fingers — this specific measurement determines your rating level and must be recorded during the C&P exam.

⚠Not specifying whether the dominant or non-dominant hand is affected — the VA applies different ratings for the major (dominant) versus minor hand for some thumb conditions.

⚠Not claiming bilateral CMC arthritis if both thumbs are affected — each thumb should be rated separately.