This tool provides estimates for educational purposes only. We are not accredited by the Department of Veterans Affairs and do not file claims, provide legal advice, or represent veterans before the VA (38 U.S.C. § 5904). For official assistance, contact a VSO, CVSO, or VA-accredited attorney.
Ankle Condition (Limitation of Motion)
- Ankle limitation of motion has only two compensable ratings: 10% (moderate) and 20% (marked).
- Instability (DC 5262) can be rated separately from limitation of motion, potentially resulting in two ratings for the same ankle.
- DeLuca factors apply, pain on use and flare-ups can support a higher effective limitation than resting measurements show.
- Common in airborne, infantry, and other MOSs involving jumping, rucking, and running on uneven terrain.
Based on VA's Schedule for Rating Disabilities (38 CFR Part 4) and related service-connection regulations. This page is a free community resource. We are not VA-accredited and do not file claims or provide legal advice (per 38 U.S.C. § 5904).
Last reviewed: April 2026 · Next review: October 2026
Maintained by: Veterans Benefits Navigator editorial team. Every citation links to a primary federal or state source. See editorial standards and our privacy posture.
Primary sources: 38 CFR Part 4 (Schedule for Rating Disabilities), VA.gov disability compensation, 38 CFR § 3.310 (secondary service connection)
Overview
Ankle conditions involving limitation of motion are commonly claimed by veterans, particularly those with service histories involving parachute jumps, heavy rucking, running, or ankle injuries during training and deployment. Ankle limitation of motion is rated under Diagnostic Code 5271.
The VA rates ankle limitation based on two levels: moderate limitation of motion (10%) and marked limitation of motion (20%). Normal ankle dorsiflexion is 0-20 degrees and normal plantar flexion is 0-45 degrees. The distinction between moderate and marked is based on how significantly motion is restricted relative to these normal ranges.
Ankle conditions can also qualify for separate ratings under other diagnostic codes. Instability (DC 5262), ankylosis (DC 5270), and malunion of the os calcis or astragalus (DC 5273) each provide additional rating pathways. Veterans with both limited motion and instability may receive separate ratings for each, as they represent distinct functional impairments.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 10% | Moderate limitation of motion of the ankle. Some restriction of dorsiflexion and/or plantar flexion that affects function but does not severely limit mobility. |
| 20% | Marked limitation of motion of the ankle. Significant restriction of dorsiflexion and/or plantar flexion causing substantial functional impairment in walking and weight-bearing activities. |
- 10%
Moderate limitation of motion of the ankle. Some restriction of dorsiflexion and/or plantar flexion that affects function but does not severely limit mobility.
- 20%
Marked limitation of motion of the ankle. Significant restriction of dorsiflexion and/or plantar flexion causing substantial functional impairment in walking and weight-bearing activities.
These criteria describe how a VA Compensation & Pension examiner evaluates the condition during a rating exam. They are not a self-test. For mental health conditions under 38 CFR 4.130, a diagnosis must be made by a qualified clinician under DSM-5. Actual ratings depend on the totality of evidence reviewed by the VA.
Evidence Checklist
Required
Range of motion measurements
Goniometric measurements of ankle dorsiflexion and plantar flexion, including after repetitive use testing.
Imaging studies
X-ray or MRI of the ankle documenting arthritis, ligament damage, fracture residuals, or other structural pathology.
Recommended
Instability testing
Results of anterior drawer test and talar tilt test to document any concurrent ankle instability.
Surgical records
If ankle surgery was performed, operative reports and post-surgical evaluation documenting residual limitation.
Helpful
Service records
Documentation of ankle injuries, parachute jumps, or other activities during service that could have caused the condition.
Functional impact statement
A personal statement describing how ankle limitation affects walking, standing, climbing stairs, and other weight-bearing activities.
Secondary Conditions
These conditions may be claimed as secondary to Ankle Limitation. A nexus is the medical link between a service-connected condition and a related condition. Nexus strength indicates the level of established medical evidence supporting that connection.
Knee Condition
DC 5260, Typical range: 10%, 20%, 30%
Plantar Fasciitis
DC 5276, Typical range: 10%, 20%, 30%
Lower Back Pain
DC 5237, Typical range: 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%
Explore all secondary conditions in the Secondary Condition Mapper tool.
Related DBQs
Ankle Conditions
Form 21-0960M-2
Search all DBQ forms in the DBQ Finder tool.
Next Steps
This information is for educational purposes only. We are not accredited by the Department of Veterans Affairs and do not file claims, provide legal advice, or represent veterans before the VA (38 U.S.C. § 5904). For official assistance, contact a VSO, CVSO, or VA-accredited attorney.