Trigger Finger (Stenosing Tenosynovitis)

DC 5228Musculoskeletal38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5228

A condition where a finger gets stuck in a bent position and then snaps straight, caused by inflammation of the tendon sheath. The VA rates trigger finger based on the gap between your fingertip and palm when you try to make a fist.

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 5228

Rating range

0% – 10%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5228. 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 trigger finger with a gap of one inch (2.5 cm) or more between the fingertip and the palm when you try to bend it fully, or your finger extension is limited by more than 30 degrees.

What the VA looks for

Gap of 1 inch (2.5 cm) or more between fingertip and palm
Extension limited by more than 30 degrees
Finger locking or catching on examination
Pain on finger movement documented

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not having the C&P examiner measure the exact gap between your fingertip and palm — the rating depends on this specific measurement.
⚠Not documenting how many fingers are affected — each finger can be rated separately, and multiple trigger fingers are combined.
⚠Not filing for multiple affected fingers individually — if you have trigger finger in more than one finger, each should be claimed as a separate condition.
⚠Not connecting trigger finger to service-related activities — repetitive gripping, tool use, and weapon handling during service are common causes.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Hand and Finger Conditions

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

Related Conditions

Conditions commonly associated with Trigger Finger (Stenosing Tenosynovitis) or rated under the same body system.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

DC 8515·Neurological·Related primary

Lumbar Strain (Low Back Pain)

DC 5237·Musculoskeletal

Cervical Strain (Neck Pain)

DC 5237·Musculoskeletal

Knee Limitation of Flexion

DC 5260·Musculoskeletal

Knee Limitation of Extension

DC 5261·Musculoskeletal

Knee Instability (Subluxation)

DC 5257·Musculoskeletal

Plantar Fasciitis (Foot Pain)

DC 5276·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 5228

Rating range

0% – 10%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have trigger finger with a gap of one inch (2.5 cm) or more between the fingertip and the palm when you try to bend it fully, or your finger extension is limited by more than 30 degrees.

What the VA looks for

Gap of 1 inch (2.5 cm) or more between fingertip and palm
Extension limited by more than 30 degrees
Finger locking or catching on examination
Pain on finger movement documented

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not having the C&P examiner measure the exact gap between your fingertip and palm — the rating depends on this specific measurement.

⚠Not documenting how many fingers are affected — each finger can be rated separately, and multiple trigger fingers are combined.

⚠Not filing for multiple affected fingers individually — if you have trigger finger in more than one finger, each should be claimed as a separate condition.

⚠Not connecting trigger finger to service-related activities — repetitive gripping, tool use, and weapon handling during service are common causes.