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Evidence checklist

Wrist Limitation of Motion

DC 521538 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 3 collected
Orthopedic evaluation with wrist range of motion measurementsCritical

Examination documenting wrist flexion, extension, radial deviation, and ulnar deviation in degrees, along with grip strength. VA rates under DC 5214-5215. Pain on motion and after repetitive use must be documented.

Private provider · independent opinion
Nexus opinion linking wrist limitation to service ("at least as likely as not")Critical

A medical opinion connecting your wrist motion restriction to in-service injury, repetitive duties, or a service-related event.

Private provider · independent opinion
Grip strength measurement

Dynamometer grip strength measurements comparing the affected and unaffected wrists, documenting functional impact of wrist limitation on grip and daily tasks.

Private provider · independent opinion
02

Treatment records

0 of 2 collected
Imaging studies (X-ray or MRI of wrist)

Radiographs showing arthritis, carpal alignment, post-fracture changes, or TFCC injury; MRI documenting ligament integrity, TFCC, and carpal bones.

VA or private records · written request
Documentation of dominant vs. non-dominant handCritical

Medical records specifying which wrist is affected and which hand is dominant. The major (dominant) extremity receives a higher rating.

VA or private records · written request
03

Lay statements

0 of 2 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 →
Personal statement describing symptoms and functional impact

Your own written account of how this condition affects your daily activities, work, and relationships. Describe your worst days.

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

Benefits questionnaire

0 of 1 collected
Completed DBQ Wrist ConditionsCritical

Standardized form capturing wrist range of motion, grip strength, pain, 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
Condition guideRating criteria and what VA looks forC&P exam prepWhat the examiner will askBuddy statement builderGuided VA Form 21-10210

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