VA Disability Rating for Elbow Ankylosis
Diagnostic Code 5205 · 38 CFR §4.71a
What Is It?
Ankylosis of the elbow means the elbow joint is completely frozen or fused, with no bending or straightening movement possible. The position in which the elbow is fixed determines the rating level. A favorable angle is between 85 and 95 degrees of flexion, which allows you to bring your hand to your face. An intermediate angle is outside this range but still partially functional. An unfavorable angle, particularly full extension where the arm is straight, or extreme flexion where the forearm is against the upper arm, is most disabling. Veterans may develop elbow ankylosis from severe fractures, burns, blast injuries, or surgical fusion for instability or infection.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 60% | Unfavorable ankylosis of the dominant elbow at an angle less than 50 degrees or more than a right angle, or with complete loss of forearm rotation |
| 50% | Intermediate ankylosis of the dominant elbow, or unfavorable ankylosis of non-dominant elbow |
| 40% | Favorable ankylosis of the dominant elbow at an angle between 85 and 95 degrees |
Evidence Needed
- Imaging confirming complete fusion or absence of elbow motion
- Range of motion testing showing zero active motion at the elbow
- Documentation of the angle at which the elbow is fixed
- Medical records linking the condition to service
- Records showing dominant versus non-dominant arm
C&P Exam Tips
- Allow the examiner to confirm zero motion at the elbow joint
- Make sure the exact angle of ankylosis is measured and documented
- Demonstrate what daily tasks you can and cannot perform with the fixed elbow
- Confirm which arm is dominant
- Describe how the fixed elbow affects work, dressing, and personal care
How to File
File under DC 5205 for elbow ankylosis. The exact angle of fusion is critical for determining your rating, so make sure it is precisely measured and documented. Include imaging and service connection evidence.
Common Mistakes
Not having the exact angle of ankylosis measured Confusing severe limitation of motion with true ankylosis Not documenting dominant versus non-dominant arm Failing to claim secondary conditions from compensatory overuse of other joints
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the angle matter so much for elbow ankylosis?
An elbow fixed at 90 degrees allows you to feed yourself, comb your hair, and perform many daily tasks. An elbow fixed straight or in extreme flexion makes these basic tasks nearly impossible. VA rates accordingly, with unfavorable angles receiving higher percentages.
Is a stiff elbow the same as ankylosis?
No. Ankylosis requires complete absence of motion. If you have any movement at the elbow, even a few degrees, the joint is not ankylosed. Severe limitation of elbow motion is rated under DC 5206 or 5207 instead.