Skip to main content

Evidence checklist

Recurrent Ankle Instability

DC 527138 CFR § 4.71aMusculoskeletal

Evidence strength

Mark what you already have below and your evidence strength appears here.

Target
Saved locally
01

Specialist opinion

Highest value0 of 2 collected
Orthopedic evaluation with ankle stability testingCritical

An examination including anterior drawer test, talar tilt test, and other ligament integrity assessments documenting the degree of ankle instability.

Private provider · independent opinion
Nexus opinion linking ankle instability to serviceCritical

A medical opinion stating it is "at least as likely as not" that your ankle instability is connected to in-service injury or repetitive ankle sprains during military duties.

Private provider · independent opinion
02

Treatment records

0 of 3 collected
Imaging studies (stress X-rays showing laxity, MRI)

Stress radiographs demonstrating ligament laxity or MRI showing ligament damage, chronic tears, or joint effusion.

VA or private records · written request
Documentation of recurrent sprains and giving-way episodes

Medical records or personal log documenting the frequency of ankle sprains, giving-way episodes, and functional limitations caused by instability.

VA or private records · written request
Ankle brace prescription and assistive device documentation

Prescription or medical records showing use of an ankle brace, ASO support, or other stabilizing device.

VA or private records · written request
03

Lay statements

0 of 1 collected
Buddy statement from spouse, family, or fellow service member

A written statement from someone who can describe observable symptoms and how your condition affects daily life.

You or a witness · VA Form 21-4138 or 21-10210How to get this →
04

Benefits questionnaire

0 of 1 collected
Completed DBQ Ankle ConditionsCritical

Standardized form capturing ankle range of motion, stability testing results, and functional limitations.

Provider-completed · VA DBQ formHow to get this →
05

Service records

0 of 1 collected
Service treatment records (STRs)Critical

Military medical records showing in-service treatment, complaints, or injuries related to this condition.

NPRC / milConnect · SF-180

What you mark here is saved in this browser, on this device only — not to an account. Changing the target rating shows different items, but never loses what you have already marked.