Ankle Ankylosis VA Disability Rating
Diagnostic Code 5270 · 38 CFR §4.71a
What Is It?
Ankle ankylosis means the ankle joint is permanently fixed and has no movement. This typically results from severe fractures, advanced arthritis, surgical fusion, or infection that destroyed the joint. When the ankle cannot move, walking requires compensation from the knee, hip, and foot joints. The position in which the ankle is fixed determines the severity rating because certain positions allow for more functional walking than others.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 40% | Ankylosis in plantar flexion between 30 and 40 degrees, or in dorsiflexion between 0 and 10 degrees, or with abduction, adduction, inversion, or eversion deformity. |
| 30% | Ankylosis in plantar flexion less than 30 degrees, meaning the foot is pointed slightly downward. |
| 20% | Ankylosis of the ankle in plantigrade position, meaning the foot is fixed at a right angle to the leg, which is the most functional position for walking. |
Evidence Needed
- Orthopedic records confirming complete absence of ankle motion
- Documentation of the exact position in which the ankle is fixed
- Imaging showing joint fusion or destruction
- Surgical records if the ankylosis resulted from a fusion procedure
- Functional assessment describing impact on walking and standing
C&P Exam Tips
- Make sure the examiner confirms zero motion at the ankle joint
- Have the exact position of fixation documented in degrees — this determines your rating
- Describe how the fixed ankle affects your walking pattern
- Report any shoe modifications or orthotics you need
- Mention compensatory pain in the knee, hip, or opposite ankle
How to File
File under DC 5270 with evidence of complete loss of ankle motion and the fixed position. If the ankylosis resulted from surgical fusion for a service-connected condition, include the surgical records and the underlying condition in your claim.
Common Mistakes
Not differentiating between severely limited motion and true ankylosis Failing to document the exact angle of fixation which determines the rating level Not claiming secondary conditions in other joints that compensate for the immobile ankle Forgetting to include surgical fusion records when the ankylosis was surgically created
Frequently Asked Questions
If I had an ankle fusion surgery, does that automatically mean I have ankylosis?
Yes. Surgical ankle fusion intentionally creates ankylosis to eliminate a painful joint. Once the fusion heals, the ankle has no motion by design, and it qualifies for rating under DC 5270.
What is plantigrade position?
Plantigrade means the foot is at a right angle to the leg, which is the normal standing position. This is considered the most favorable position for ankle ankylosis because it allows the most functional walking pattern, which is why it receives the lowest ankylosis rating.