Talus Fracture Residuals

DC 5010Musculoskeletal38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5010

Residual problems from a broken talus bone in the ankle, including chronic pain, stiffness, and arthritis. Talus fractures are serious ankle injuries that often lead to long-term joint problems and avascular necrosis. The VA rates residuals based on limitation of ankle motion or ankle arthritis.

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% – 40%

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 residual talus fracture resulting in ankylosis of the ankle in plantar flexion between 30 and 40 degrees, or in dorsiflexion between 0 and 10 degrees. The ankle is fused in a position that severely impairs walking.

What the VA looks for

Ankle ankylosis in unfavorable position
Fusion in plantar flexion between 30-40 degrees
Severe gait abnormality
Dependence on assistive devices for ambulation

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting follow-up MRI to check for avascular necrosis — the talus has a limited blood supply, and avascular necrosis is a common and serious complication that may warrant a higher rating.
⚠Not documenting the original fracture in service treatment records — if the fracture occurred during active duty, connect current residuals to the in-service injury.
⚠Not reporting all functional limitations — explain how ankle stiffness affects walking on uneven ground, climbing, and standing for extended periods.
⚠Not claiming secondary conditions — talus fracture residuals commonly cause knee and hip problems from altered gait, which may be service-connected secondarily.

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…

Talus Fracture Residuals

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 5010

Rating range

10% – 40%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

What the VA looks for

Ankle ankylosis in unfavorable position
Fusion in plantar flexion between 30-40 degrees
Severe gait abnormality
Dependence on assistive devices for ambulation

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting follow-up MRI to check for avascular necrosis — the talus has a limited blood supply, and avascular necrosis is a common and serious complication that may warrant a higher rating.

⚠Not documenting the original fracture in service treatment records — if the fracture occurred during active duty, connect current residuals to the in-service injury.

⚠Not reporting all functional limitations — explain how ankle stiffness affects walking on uneven ground, climbing, and standing for extended periods.

⚠Not claiming secondary conditions — talus fracture residuals commonly cause knee and hip problems from altered gait, which may be service-connected secondarily.