Musculoskeletal · 38 CFR 4.71a · DC 5270-5274
Ankle Instability VA Disability Rating
Ankle conditions rate under multiple codes: ankylosis (DC 5270, up to 40%), limited motion (DC 5271, 10/20%), Achilles tendon (DC 5274). Bilateral triggers bilateral factor. Common kinetic-chain secondary to knee or hip conditions.
Rating criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 10% | Moderate limited motion. |
| 20% | Marked limited motion OR ankylosis in plantar flexion <30 deg. |
| 30% | Ankylosis 30-40 deg plantar flexion. |
| 40% | Ankylosis >40 deg plantar flexion or in dorsiflexion. |
Common secondary conditions
Veterans rated for ankle instability frequently file secondary-service-connection claims for:
- Plantar fasciitis
- Knee strain
- Lumbar spine
Use the calculator
Once you know the percentage assigned for this condition, plug it into the VA Combined Rating Calculator alongside any other service-connected ratings to see your combined percentage and 2026 monthly compensation.
Source citations
- 38 CFR 4.71a (eCFR)
- VA.gov current monthly compensation rates
- VA Office of General Counsel — Accreditation directory
VetDisabilityCalc is an independent reference site operated by Zoom Lifestyle LLC. We are not VA-accredited and we do not prepare or present VA claims. The information in this guide is reference material based on the cited regulations and is not legal advice. For representation, use the official VA OGC accreditation directory.