Ratings Prime

Typically replies in minutes
Hey! 👋 Welcome to Ratings Prime. Have a question? Drop it here or call us at 305-897-2805.
Protected by our Privacy Policy
Home / VA Ratings A–Z / Ankle Conditions

VA Rating for Ankle Conditions

DC 5270–5271 Max schedular: 40% Category: Musculoskeletal Updated for 2026 rates
The Official Criteria

Ankle Conditions Rating Chart

Criteria from 38 CFR Part 4 (DC 5270–5271). Pay shown is the 2026 monthly rate for a veteran alone at that percentage by itself.

RatingWhat qualifies2026 monthly pay*
40%Ankylosis of the ankle in plantar flexion at more than 40°, or in dorsiflexion at more than 10° (DC 5270).$795.84
20%Marked limitation of ankle motion; or ankylosis in plantar flexion less than 30°.$356.66
10%Moderate limitation of ankle motion; or painful motion under § 4.59.$180.42

*Rate for that single rating with no dependents. Your combined rating and household may differ — run your exact numbers in our calculator.

How the VA Rates Ankle Conditions

Ankles use a simpler scheme: “moderate” (10%) vs “marked” (20%) limitation of motion. Normal dorsiflexion is 0–20° and plantar flexion 0–45°. VA adjudicators generally treat less than half of normal motion as marked. Chronic instability with repeated sprains supports the higher level.

Evidence That Wins This Claim

  • Document every rolled ankle and brace use — frequency of giving-way supports 'marked'.
  • Altered gait from a bad ankle supports secondary knee, hip, and back claims.

Common Questions

What is a 'marked' limitation of ankle motion?

The regulation doesn't define it numerically, but adjudicators commonly treat loss of more than half of normal motion (dorsiflexion under ~10 degrees or plantar flexion under ~20 degrees) — or instability with recurrent sprains — as marked, warranting 20%.

Free Strategy Call · 305-897-2805