Wrist Ankylosis

DC 5214Musculoskeletal38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5214

Complete fusion of the wrist joint, where the wrist is permanently fixed with no remaining flexion, extension, or radial/ulnar deviation. This can result from severe trauma, advanced arthritis, infection, or surgical fusion (arthrodesis). The VA rates wrist ankylosis based on the position of fixation and whether it is the dominant or non-dominant hand.

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 5214

Rating range

20% – 50%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5214. 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 wrist on your dominant side, with the wrist fused in palmar flexion or with ulnar or radial deviation. This is the most severe rating for wrist ankylosis.

What the VA looks for

Wrist fused in palmar flexion or deviated position (dominant hand)
Near-total loss of hand function
Inability to perform most fine motor tasks
Severe occupational impairment
May qualify for loss of use of the hand

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting dominant hand — ratings differ significantly between the dominant (major) and non-dominant (minor) hand. Always confirm and document handedness.
⚠Confusing severe limitation with ankylosis — ankylosis requires absolutely zero wrist motion. If any motion remains, the wrist should be rated under limitation of motion codes (DC 5215) instead.
⚠Not requesting loss of use evaluation — if wrist ankylosis in an unfavorable position makes the hand effectively useless, you may qualify for loss of use of the hand with SMC.
⚠Failing to document the position of fusion — the examiner must specify the exact degrees and direction (dorsiflexion, palmar flexion, ulnar or radial deviation) of the fixed wrist.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Wrist Conditions
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…

Wrist Ankylosis

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 5214

Rating range

20% – 50%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have unfavorable ankylosis of the wrist on your dominant side, with the wrist fused in palmar flexion or with ulnar or radial deviation. This is the most severe rating for wrist ankylosis.

What the VA looks for

Wrist fused in palmar flexion or deviated position (dominant hand)
Near-total loss of hand function
Inability to perform most fine motor tasks
Severe occupational impairment
May qualify for loss of use of the hand

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting dominant hand — ratings differ significantly between the dominant (major) and non-dominant (minor) hand. Always confirm and document handedness.

⚠Confusing severe limitation with ankylosis — ankylosis requires absolutely zero wrist motion. If any motion remains, the wrist should be rated under limitation of motion codes (DC 5215) instead.

⚠Not requesting loss of use evaluation — if wrist ankylosis in an unfavorable position makes the hand effectively useless, you may qualify for loss of use of the hand with SMC.

⚠Failing to document the position of fusion — the examiner must specify the exact degrees and direction (dorsiflexion, palmar flexion, ulnar or radial deviation) of the fixed wrist.