VA Disability Rating for Ankle Condition (Limited Motion)
10% for moderate, 20% for marked limitation of ankle motion. 20% is the max under 5271.
Ankle conditions are most commonly rated under DC 5271 (limited motion of ankle). Moderate limitation = 10%, marked = 20%. For severe cases consider DC 5270 (ankylosis) which can reach 40%. Painful motion under DeLuca / § 4.59 entitles you to at least the minimum compensable rating even with seemingly normal range.
Rating tiers + 2026 monthly compensation
| Rating | Monthly (2026, single vet) | Criteria (summary) |
|---|---|---|
| 10% | $180.42 | Moderate limitation of motion of the ankle. |
| 20% | $356.66 | Marked limitation of motion of the ankle. |
Dollar amounts reflect the 2.5% COLA effective 2025-12-01 for single veterans with no dependents. Add spouse + children for 30%+ ratings via the estimator.
What this means in dollars
- →At 10%: $180.42/mo · $2,165/year, tax-free
- →At 20%: $356.66/mo · $4,280/year, tax-free
How to get rated for ankle condition (limited motion)
- Goniometer measurements of dorsiflexion (normal 0–20°) and plantar flexion (normal 0–45°).
- C&P exam should test repetitive motion — additional loss of function from pain, weakness, fatigability.
- Painful motion + § 4.59 secures minimum 10% even if range is technically full.
Common secondary conditions
- +Plantar fasciitis
- +Knee strain (altered gait)
- +Lumbar strain (compensation)
File these separately. VA rates each service-connected condition independently and combines them via § 4.25.
Nexus tips
- In-service ankle sprains are documented as routine but often heal incomplete — chronic ankle instability years later is well-recognized as service-connected.
- Parachute jumps, ruck marches, and PT injuries are classic etiologies.
Frequently asked
Why is my ankle 'moderate' only 10%?
5271 caps at 20%. If you have ankylosis (joint fusion), instability requiring bracing, or significant arthritis, file under DC 5270 (40% max) or combine with DJD.
Ready to act on this?
Get a full rating estimate across your conditions, or draft the nexus letter your doctor needs to sign.
Related conditions
This page summarizes public rating criteria from 38 CFR Part 4. It is not legal or medical advice. Actual VA ratings depend on C&P exam findings, records review, and rater discretion.