DC 5215 · 38 CFR 4.71a
Wrist Conditions (Ankylosis / Limitation of Motion) C&P Exam Prep
To document the current severity of wrist ankylosis or limitation of motion, including range of motion measurements, functional loss, and the impact on occupational and daily activities for VA disability rating purposes under 38 CFR 4.71a diagnostic codes 5214 and 5215.
- Format:
- Interview + Physical
- Typical duration:
- 20-30 minutes
- DBQ form:
- wrist (wrist)
- Examiner:
- Physician or Physician Assistant
What the examiner evaluates
- Active and passive range of motion in all wrist planes (dorsiflexion, palmar flexion, radial deviation, ulnar deviation)
- Presence and position of wrist ankylosis (favorable vs. unfavorable)
- Pain on motion and at rest
- Functional loss due to pain, weakness, fatigue, incoordination, and lack of endurance
- Effect of repetitive use on range of motion
- Flare-up frequency, severity, duration, and additional range of motion loss
- Muscle strength and grip strength
- Presence of deformity, swelling, or crepitus
- Surgical history including arthroplasty or total wrist replacement
- Assistive device use (braces, splints)
- Impact on occupational functioning and activities of daily living
- Muscle atrophy or disuse atrophy
- Dominant hand status
Exam typically conducted in a clinic setting by a VA or contract examiner. The veteran should be prepared to demonstrate wrist movement and answer detailed questions about symptom history and daily functional limitations. Most states allow veterans to record their C&P exam; check your state law and notify the examiner in advance if you plan to record.
Measurements and tests
Wrist Dorsiflexion (Extension)
What it measures: Upward bending of the wrist; normal is 0- to 70-. Favorable ankylosis under DC 5214 is defined as fixation in 20-30- dorsiflexion.
What to expect: Examiner will ask you to bend your wrist upward as far as possible; they may also passively move your wrist and test weight-bearing and non-weight-bearing positions.
Critical thresholds
- Less than 30- Compensable limitation of motion under DC 5215; may approach ankylosis criteria under DC 5214
- Complete fixation at 20-30- dorsiflexion Favorable ankylosis: 30% dominant / 20% non-dominant (DC 5214)
- Complete fixation in any other position except favorable Unfavorable ankylosis: 40% dominant / 30% non-dominant (DC 5214)
- Complete fixation with palmar flexion, ulnar or radial deviation Most unfavorable ankylosis: 50% dominant / 40% non-dominant (DC 5214)
Tips
- Do not stretch or warm up your wrist before the exam; perform as you would on a typical day
- Report the angle at which pain begins, not just where motion stops
- If motion is worse after activity, tell the examiner
- If you use a wrist brace, bring it and mention it
Pain considerations: Under DeLuca v. Brown, pain that limits motion must be documented. If you stop motion due to pain before reaching your anatomical end range, clearly state 'I am stopping because of pain at this point.' The examiner should document the painful arc, not just end-range.
Wrist Palmar Flexion (Flexion)
What it measures: Downward bending of the wrist; normal is 0- to 80-. Any degree of palmar flexion ankylosis is considered unfavorable under DC 5214.
What to expect: Examiner asks you to bend wrist downward as far as possible, both actively and passively.
Critical thresholds
- Less than 30- May be compensable limitation under DC 5215
- Complete fixation in any palmar flexion Unfavorable or most-unfavorable ankylosis under DC 5214 (40-50% dominant)
Tips
- If palmar flexion causes sharp or burning pain, describe this specifically
- Note whether palmar flexion is worse after prolonged use or in the morning
Pain considerations: Palmar flexion is particularly relevant to grip and pinch tasks. Describe how pain during this motion limits typing, gripping steering wheels, writing, and carrying objects.
Radial and Ulnar Deviation
What it measures: Side-to-side wrist motion. Normal radial deviation is 0-20-; ulnar deviation is 0-30-. Ankylosis with ulnar or radial deviation is unfavorable under DC 5214.
What to expect: Examiner will ask you to move your wrist side to side while the forearm is stabilized; passive motion will also be tested.
Critical thresholds
- Ankylosis fixed in ulnar or radial deviation Unfavorable ankylosis 40-50% dominant (DC 5214)
- Significant limitation of deviation May contribute to compensable limitation under DC 5215
Tips
- If you have fixed deformity in an angulated position, point it out to the examiner
- Describe difficulty with lateral wrist movements such as pouring liquids or turning door handles
Pain considerations: Ulnar deviation is used in many power grip activities. Report pain with these movements and how it affects daily tasks.
Passive Range of Motion and Weight-Bearing vs. Non-Weight-Bearing
What it measures: Correia requirements mandate that examiners document active ROM, passive ROM, and note differences. For the wrist, weight-bearing (pressing on palm) and non-weight-bearing positions should both be assessed.
What to expect: Examiner will move your wrist for you to assess passive motion, and may ask you to push on a surface to assess weight-bearing pain.
Critical thresholds
- Passive ROM greater than active ROM Indicates muscle guarding or pain-limited active motion, which can support functional loss claims
- Pain or significant limitation with weight-bearing Supports higher functional impairment rating; relevant for activities like push-ups, getting up from chair
Tips
- If passive motion is more limited or more painful than active motion, tell the examiner
- Describe whether bearing weight on your wrist (e.g., getting up from a chair) causes pain or is impossible
Pain considerations: Weight-bearing wrist pain significantly limits self-care activities. Be specific: 'I cannot push up from a chair using my wrist' is more useful than 'my wrist hurts.'
Repetitive Use Testing and Flare-Up Documentation
What it measures: Under DeLuca v. Brown, the VA must consider additional ROM loss after repetitive use and during flare-ups. The examiner should ask about both.
What to expect: Examiner will ask whether your wrist motion worsens with repeated movement or after work activities, and whether you experience flare-ups distinct from your baseline condition.
Critical thresholds
- Additional ROM loss after repetitive use Can justify a higher rating than baseline ROM alone; documents functional loss
- Flare-ups causing additional ROM loss or incapacitation Must be described in degrees of additional ROM loss if possible; if not quantifiable, describe severity and duration
Tips
- Come prepared with a written description of your worst flare-up: frequency (e.g., 2-3 times per month), duration (e.g., 3-5 days), severity, and what additional limitations occur
- State specific activities that trigger flare-ups (e.g., yard work, lifting, typing for extended periods)
- If during the exam your wrist fatigues and ROM decreases, tell the examiner immediately
Pain considerations: Flare-up pain may prevent any use of the wrist. Describe whether you need to rest, ice, or take medication during flare-ups and whether you miss work or cancel activities.
Rating criteria by percentage
50%
Ankylosis of the wrist, unfavorable: fixed in any degree of palmar flexion, or with ulnar or radial deviation - dominant hand. Extremely unfavorable ankylosis may be rated as loss of use of the hand under DC 5125.
Key symptoms
- Wrist completely immobile in palmar flexion position
- Wrist locked in ulnar deviation
- Wrist locked in radial deviation
- Inability to perform any wrist extension
- Severe grip impairment
- Near total loss of hand function
From 38 CFR: DC 5214: 'Unfavorable, in any degree of palmar flexion, or with ulnar or radial deviation' - 50% dominant, 40% non-dominant. Note: Extremely unfavorable = loss of use of hands rated under DC 5125.
40%
Ankylosis of the wrist in any other position except favorable (dominant hand), or unfavorable ankylosis in non-dominant hand. Wrist is completely immobile but not in palmar flexion or deviation.
Key symptoms
- Complete loss of wrist motion
- Wrist fixed in neutral or extended position other than 20-30 degrees dorsiflexion
- Significant grip and pinch impairment
- Inability to use wrist for any forceful activities
From 38 CFR: DC 5214: 'Any other position, except favorable' - 40% dominant, 30% non-dominant.
30%
Ankylosis in favorable position (20-30 degrees dorsiflexion), dominant hand; or significant limitation of wrist motion under DC 5215 with marked pain and functional loss.
Key symptoms
- Wrist fixed in 20-30 degrees dorsiflexion (most functional position)
- Substantial limitation of motion in all planes
- Significant pain with any wrist use
- Weakness and fatigability
- Difficulty with all wrist-dependent activities
From 38 CFR: DC 5214: 'Favorable in 20- to 30- dorsiflexion' - 30% dominant, 20% non-dominant. DC 5215 limitation of motion may also reach this level.
20%
Favorable ankylosis in non-dominant hand, or moderate limitation of wrist motion with functional impairment under DC 5215. Minimum rating for wrist prosthesis (DC 5053).
Key symptoms
- Moderate restriction of dorsiflexion or palmar flexion
- Pain limiting sustained wrist use
- Wrist fatigue with repetitive tasks
- Difficulty with gripping and twisting motions
- Use of wrist brace for symptom management
From 38 CFR: DC 5214: 'Favorable in 20- to 30- dorsiflexion' - 20% non-dominant. DC 5053 minimum rating 20% with intermediate residuals. DC 5215 limitation of motion.
10%
Mild limitation of wrist motion with minimal functional impairment under DC 5215. Pain on motion present but does not significantly limit daily activities.
Key symptoms
- Mild restriction of one or more wrist motions
- Pain at end range of motion
- Mild stiffness, particularly in the morning
- Minor interference with fine motor tasks
From 38 CFR: DC 5215 limitation of motion at lowest compensable level; painful motion per 38 CFR 4.59.
Describing your symptoms accurately
Pain on Motion
How to describe it: Identify the exact movement that causes pain, the location of pain (e.g., dorsal wrist, radial styloid, ulnar side), the quality of pain (sharp, aching, burning), and what level of activity provokes it.
Example: On my worst days, any movement of my wrist - even just turning a doorknob - causes a sharp stabbing pain rated 8 out of 10. The pain begins immediately when I start to bend my wrist and prevents me from completing the motion. I cannot hold a cup of coffee or turn a steering wheel.
Examiner listens for: Clear connection between specific motion and onset of pain; objective corroboration such as wincing or guarding; statement of pain before end range is reached; impact on daily tasks.
Avoid: Do not say 'it's a little sore sometimes.' Say instead: 'I experience significant pain whenever I flex or extend my wrist, which limits my ability to perform basic tasks like typing, cooking, and personal hygiene.'
Flare-Ups
How to describe it: Describe frequency (how many times per month), typical duration (days), specific triggers (lifting, repetitive use, weather changes), and what additional limitations occur during a flare-up beyond your baseline.
Example: I have flare-ups about twice a month, each lasting 3 to 5 days. During a flare-up, I cannot use my wrist at all. I cannot dress myself without help, cannot cook, and miss work. Even at rest, the pain is a 7 out of 10. I apply ice every 2 hours and take extra pain medication.
Examiner listens for: Specific frequency and duration data; quantified additional ROM loss if possible; concrete functional limitations during flare; evidence that flare-ups are distinct from baseline symptoms.
Avoid: Do not skip describing flare-ups just because you are not currently in one. Per M21-1 and DeLuca, the DBQ specifically asks for flare-up information. Say: 'Even though I am not in a flare today, my condition regularly causes severe episodes that are worse than what you are observing.'
Weakness and Fatigability
How to describe it: Describe grip strength loss, inability to sustain tasks, items dropped, and how quickly the wrist fatigues with repetitive use.
Example: On my worst days, I cannot open a jar, hold a pen for more than 5 minutes, or carry groceries with the affected hand. After typing for 15 minutes, my wrist becomes so weak and painful that I must stop for 30 minutes before I can continue.
Examiner listens for: Specific task limitations; time-based fatigue descriptions; correlation between activity and increased weakness; impact on sustained employment tasks.
Avoid: Do not just say 'my wrist is weak.' Quantify: 'I can carry no more than 5 pounds with my affected wrist, and even then only for about 2 minutes before the pain and weakness force me to stop.'
Incoordination and Fine Motor Loss
How to describe it: Describe difficulty with precision tasks such as buttoning clothes, using utensils, writing, using a keyboard, or handling small objects.
Example: On my worst days, I cannot button my shirt, use a fork without dropping it, or write more than a few words before my wrist gives out. I have dropped glasses and plates because of sudden wrist weakness and incoordination.
Examiner listens for: Specific activities affected; evidence of functional impairment beyond simple pain; connection between wrist condition and neurological-type symptoms if any.
Avoid: Do not omit incoordination because you think it is only a neurological symptom. Wrist instability, weakness, and pain all cause functional incoordination that the DBQ specifically captures.
Ankylosis Position and Functional Position
How to describe it: If your wrist is nearly or completely fixed, describe the position it is locked in and how that position specifically limits or affects your function. For DC 5214 rating purposes, the position of ankylosis directly determines the rating level.
Example: My wrist is essentially stuck in a bent-down position. I cannot straighten it to type on a keyboard, use a mouse, or place my hand flat on a surface. Even shaking hands is impossible because my wrist is angled downward and to the side.
Examiner listens for: Whether the fixed position allows any functional hand use; whether the position is palmar flexion, deviation, or neutral; impact on grip and pinch; whether loss of use criteria may apply.
Avoid: Do not assume the examiner will observe your deformity without you describing it. State clearly: 'My wrist is fixed and I cannot move it voluntarily. It is locked in a downward and inward position which prevents me from using my hand for almost any activity.'
Impact on Employment and Daily Activities
How to describe it: Describe specifically which job tasks you cannot perform, how many hours per day you can use your wrist, and which daily activities (grooming, cooking, driving, writing) are limited or impossible.
Example: I cannot perform my job as a carpenter because I cannot grip tools, swing a hammer, or maintain a steady hold on materials. I have missed approximately 3 days of work per month due to wrist flare-ups. At home, I cannot cook, do laundry, or drive for extended periods without stopping due to wrist pain and weakness.
Examiner listens for: Concrete occupational limitations; frequency of work absences; impact on instrumental activities of daily living; whether adaptive strategies or assistive devices are required.
Avoid: Do not say 'it affects my work a little.' Be specific and quantify: 'I can only perform wrist-dependent tasks for approximately 20 minutes before I must rest for 30 minutes due to pain and weakness.'
Common mistakes to avoid
Performing wrist stretches or exercises before the exam to reduce stiffness
Why: This artificially improves range of motion measurements, which are taken as your functional baseline. A temporarily improved ROM will result in a lower rating that does not reflect your actual daily condition.
Do this instead: Come to the exam as you would on a typical day. If you use a brace, wear it to the appointment and remove it only when asked. Do not pre-medicate with anti-inflammatories specifically to reduce exam-day pain if that medication is not part of your daily routine.
Impact: Can suppress rating by one full level (e.g., 30% to 20%)
Only reporting pain at end range and not describing where pain begins during motion
Why: Under 38 CFR 4.59 and DeLuca, the VA must consider where in the arc of motion pain occurs. If you only report pain at the endpoint, the examiner may not document painful arc, losing functional loss credit.
Do this instead: State clearly when pain begins during movement: 'Pain starts when I move my wrist about 10 degrees in any direction, not just at the end of motion.' This documents functional ROM as reduced from the beginning of movement.
Impact: Critical for all rating levels; can be the difference between compensable and non-compensable
Not describing flare-ups because you are not currently in one
Why: The DBQ (field PUBLICDBQMUSCWRIST_279) specifically asks for veteran-described flare-up information. If not reported, the examiner will document no flare-ups, and your rating will be based solely on exam-day presentation.
Do this instead: Prepare a written flare-up description in advance. Tell the examiner: 'My exam-day condition is my best-case scenario. I have regular flare-ups that are much more limiting.' Provide frequency, duration, and specific functional losses during flare-ups.
Impact: Can affect rating by 10-20 percentage points
Failing to mention dominant hand status
Why: DC 5214 has different rating percentages for dominant versus non-dominant hand. The DBQ specifically documents this (RG_Right_Left_Ambidextrous). If the examiner does not note dominant hand, the higher rating level may not be applied.
Do this instead: Proactively state which is your dominant hand at the start of the exam, especially if the claimed wrist is your dominant hand: 'I am right-handed and my right wrist is the one being evaluated.'
Impact: 10-percentage-point difference at each ankylosis level
Understating the position of ankylosis or fixed deformity
Why: For DC 5214, the rating is entirely determined by the position in which the wrist is ankylosed. Palmar flexion and deviation positions yield the highest ratings. Failing to accurately describe the fixed position can result in a lower-tier rating.
Do this instead: Use precise positional language. If your wrist bends down or to the side and stays there, state: 'My wrist is fixed in a downward (palmar flexion) position' or 'My wrist deviates to the little-finger side and is not correctable.' Show the examiner the resting position of your wrist.
Impact: Can be the difference between 30% and 50% under DC 5214
Not bringing assistive devices or braces to the exam
Why: Brace use is documented in the DBQ (PUBLICDBQMUSCWRIST_609_BRACE and RG_8A_Brace_Frequency) and supports severity of your condition. If you wear a brace daily but do not bring it, this evidence is missing from the record.
Do this instead: Bring your wrist brace or splint to the exam. Mention how often you wear it (daily, during all activities, only at night) and why. If a physician prescribed it, state that.
Impact: Supports higher functional impairment ratings across all levels
Not describing symptoms after repetitive use
Why: DeLuca requires the examiner to document ROM after repetitive use. If you do not tell the examiner your wrist worsens with repeated movement, this critical functional loss element will not be documented.
Do this instead: Volunteer this information: 'My wrist motion and pain are significantly worse after I use it repeatedly. For example, after 15 minutes of typing, my wrist becomes much more painful and I lose another 10-15 degrees of motion.' If possible, estimate the additional ROM loss.
Impact: Can support 10-20% higher rating by documenting functional loss beyond baseline
Prep checklist
- critical
Write out a complete symptom history in your own words
Document: (1) when the wrist condition began and its service connection, (2) current daily baseline symptoms, (3) worst-day symptoms, (4) flare-up frequency and duration, (5) all activities you can no longer perform or must limit. Bring this written account to the exam.
before exam
- critical
Identify and write down your flare-up pattern
Record frequency (times per month), duration (days), triggers (physical activity, weather, stress), additional ROM loss during flare-ups if known, and what you do to manage flare-ups (ice, rest, medication, ER visits). The DBQ specifically asks for this information.
before exam
- critical
Gather all relevant medical records and bring a summary
Collect imaging results (X-rays, MRI, CT scans), surgical records (arthroplasty, arthroscopy, fusion), treating physician notes, physical therapy records, and any nexus letters or IMOs. Bring copies or a one-page summary of key findings.
before exam
- critical
Confirm your dominant hand and which wrist(s) are being examined
Rating under DC 5214 differs by 10 percentage points between dominant and non-dominant hand. Confirm which hand is dominant and be prepared to state this clearly at the start of the exam.
before exam
- recommended
Review the rating criteria for DC 5214 and 5215
Understand that ankylosis ratings are determined by the position of fixation. Limitation of motion ratings are determined by degree of restricted ROM. Know that palmar flexion and deviation positions of ankylosis yield the highest ratings (50% dominant). Know that painful motion must be documented even if ROM appears normal.
before exam
- recommended
Check your state's recording law and notify the exam facility
Many states allow one-party consent recording of C&P exams. Research your state law, call the exam facility in advance, and bring a recording device (phone) to the exam. This protects your record if the DBQ is later found to be inadequate.
before exam
- critical
Do not exercise or stretch your wrist before the exam
Avoid any activity that might temporarily improve your range of motion on exam day. Your goal is to present your typical functional state, not your best-case scenario.
before exam
- critical
Wear or bring your wrist brace or splint
If you regularly wear a brace, wear it to the appointment. Showing the examiner the device and explaining how often and why you use it documents your functional impairment in the DBQ.
day of
- critical
Do not take anti-inflammatory medication specifically for the exam
If NSAIDs or other pain medications are not part of your daily routine, avoid taking them on exam day. Taking medication specifically to reduce pain for the exam may suppress measurable symptoms.
day of
- recommended
Arrive with your written symptom narrative
Bring your prepared written description of symptoms, flare-ups, and functional limitations. You may refer to it during the exam or hand it to the examiner. Ask that it be included in or attached to the DBQ.
day of
- recommended
Be prepared to demonstrate your worst functional limitation
If you cannot make a fist, button a shirt, or lay your hand flat due to your wrist condition, be prepared to demonstrate this for the examiner. Visible functional limitation is more powerful than verbal description alone.
day of
- critical
Report pain at the beginning of motion, not just at end range
When performing ROM testing, state out loud when pain begins: 'Pain starts here' rather than waiting until you reach the end of motion. This documents a reduced pain-free arc and supports functional loss.
during exam
- critical
Volunteer flare-up information if not asked
If the examiner does not ask about flare-ups, proactively raise the topic: 'I also want to make sure you document my flare-up pattern, which is much worse than what you are seeing today.' Reference DBQ field 279 if needed.
during exam
- critical
State that your exam-day condition is not your worst
Clearly tell the examiner: 'What you are seeing today is not my worst. My condition is significantly worse during flare-ups, after repetitive use, and at the end of a workday.' This preserves the flare-up record.
during exam
- critical
Describe all DeLuca factors: pain, weakness, fatigue, incoordination
Systematically mention each functional loss factor: (1) pain on motion, (2) fatigue or lack of endurance, (3) weakness limiting grip and pinch, (4) incoordination affecting fine motor tasks. Do not assume the examiner will ask about each one.
during exam
- recommended
Mention impact on employment specifically
The DBQ documents functional impact on employment. State whether your wrist condition prevents specific job duties, causes absences, requires accommodations, or has led to job changes or job loss.
during exam
- recommended
Request a copy of the completed DBQ
You have the right to request a copy of the completed DBQ. Ask the examiner how to obtain a copy and follow up through the VA portal (VA.gov Blue Button) or your VSO.
during exam
- recommended
Document everything you remember about the exam immediately after
Within one hour of the exam, write down: what the examiner tested, what you said, what the examiner appeared to document or skip, approximate ROM measurements observed, and any concerns about adequacy of the exam. This supports a future inadequate-exam claim if needed.
after exam
- critical
Obtain and review the completed DBQ through VA.gov
Access your DBQ through VA.gov Blue Button, My HealtheVet, or request it from your VSO. Review each field for accuracy, especially ROM measurements, pain documentation, dominant hand notation, and flare-up description. File a complaint or supplemental evidence if critical items are missing.
after exam
- recommended
Follow up with your treating physician if exam was inadequate
If the DBQ omits flare-up information, DeLuca factors, or dominant hand status, ask your treating physician to provide a private nexus or supplemental opinion letter documenting the missing information.
after exam
Your rights during a C&P exam
- You have the right to request that your C&P examination be recorded in most states. Research your state's one-party consent law and notify the VA or contract examiner in advance.
- You have the right to receive a copy of your completed DBQ. Request it through VA.gov (Blue Button), My HealtheVet, or your Veterans Service Organization (VSO).
- You have the right to submit a private medical opinion (IMO/IME) from your own treating physician if you believe the VA examiner's report is inadequate, unfavorable, or incomplete.
- You have the right to request a new C&P examination if you believe the original exam was inadequate - for example, if the examiner failed to perform range of motion testing, did not document painful motion, or ignored your flare-up history.
- Under 38 CFR 4.59, the VA must consider painful motion in your rating, even if your range of motion appears within normal limits. Pain on motion alone can be rated as the minimum compensable level.
- Under DeLuca v. Brown, the VA must consider additional functional loss due to pain, fatigue, weakness, incoordination, and flare-ups - not just static range of motion measurements.
- You have the right to bring a trusted person (caregiver, VSO representative, or family member) to your C&P exam as a witness, though they typically may not speak during the physical examination portion.
- You are not required to agree with the examiner's findings. If findings are inaccurate, you may submit a written statement (VA Form 21-4138) to the VA within one year of the rating decision to correct the record.
- Under the PACT Act and AMA (Appeals Modernization Act), you have the right to select the review lane (Supplemental Claim, Higher-Level Review, or Board Appeal) most appropriate for your situation if you disagree with the rating assigned.
- You have the right to request that the VA apply the most favorable diagnostic code if your wrist condition could be rated under multiple codes (e.g., DC 5214 vs. 5215). The VA must apply the code that produces the highest evaluation.
Related conditions
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Wrist pathology frequently causes or is associated with median nerve compression at the carpal tunnel, producing numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand. Can be rated separately under DC 8515.
- De Quervain's Tenosynovitis Inflammatory condition of the radial wrist tendons (APL and EPB) commonly occurring alongside wrist sprains or overuse injuries. May be rated separately and co-exist with wrist limitation of motion claims.
- TFCC (Triangular Fibrocartilaginous Complex) Injury TFCC tears are a common cause of ulnar-sided wrist pain, instability, and limitation of motion. May be rated alongside or as the primary diagnosis producing wrist limitation of motion under DC 5215.
- Post-Traumatic Arthritis of the Wrist Arthritis resulting from wrist fractures or injuries rated under DC 5010 or 5003, and may be a secondary diagnosis contributing to wrist limitation of motion. X-ray evidence required for DC 5003 rating.
- Scaphoid Fracture Residuals / Avascular Necrosis of Carpal Bones Scaphoid non-union and avascular necrosis (Kienbock's disease) are common complications of wrist injuries leading to chronic pain, limited motion, and eventual wrist arthrosis or ankylosis.
- Wrist Arthroplasty / Total Wrist Joint Replacement Veterans who have undergone wrist replacement are rated under DC 5053, which provides 100% for one year post-surgery and then rates by analogy to DC 5214 with a minimum 20% rating. Related to but distinct from ankylosis claims.
- Ulnar Nerve Entrapment (Cubital/Guyon's Canal) Ulnar nerve compression at the wrist (Guyon's canal) or elbow can co-exist with wrist pathology, producing weakness and sensory loss in the ring and little fingers. Separately ratable under DC 8516.
- Radial Nerve Injury Radial nerve damage can cause wrist drop and limitation of extension, potentially overlapping with wrist limitation of motion claims. May be separately ratable under DC 8514 if nerve injury is documented.
Get a personalized prep packet
This guide covers what to expect for any veteran with this condition. If you have already uploaded your medical records, sign in to generate a packet that maps your specific symptoms to the DBQ fields your examiner will fill out.
This C&P exam preparation guide is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal, medical, or claims advice. Always consult with a qualified Veterans Service Organization (VSO) representative or VA-accredited attorney for guidance specific to your claim. Never exaggerate, minimize, or fabricate symptoms during a C&P examination.