38 CFR Part 4 — 38 CFR § 4.71a
Thumb, limitation of motion
Musculoskeletal
Diagnostic code
5228
Why your DC matters: DC 5228 identifies the rating criteria VA applies to this condition. The controlling regulation and the evidence in an individual record determine the evaluation; no page can predict an outcome.
Official source
Until this catalog entry is independently reviewed, this page is identification only. Read the live schedule at 38 CFR Part 4 (eCFR) — locate diagnostic code 5228 in the subpart for your body system.
Next Steps
If your rating decision lists DC 5228, compare your current symptoms and documentation against the criteria for DC 5228 in 38 CFR Part 4. Consider:
- Requesting a copy of your rating decision and C&P exam report from the VA
- Gathering all relevant medical records (VA and private providers)
- Documenting functional limitations and how they impact work and daily activities
- Discussing whether medical-opinion evidence is needed with an accredited representative
- Reviewing any potentially related conditions with a qualified clinician and accredited representative
- Contacting a VA-accredited VSO, claims agent, or attorney to review your file
This is general educational information only — not legal or medical advice.
Other codes in this body system
Nearby catalog entries in Musculoskeletal, ordered by diagnostic code number. All Musculoskeletal codes
- DC 5220Five digits of one hand, favorable ankylosis
- DC 5221Four digits of one hand, favorable ankylosis
- DC 5222Three digits of one hand, favorable ankylosis
- DC 5223Two digits of one hand, favorable ankylosis
- DC 5224Thumb, ankylosis
- DC 5225Index finger, ankylosis
- DC 5226Long finger, ankylosis
- DC 5227Ring or little finger, ankylosis
- DC 5229Index or long finger, limitation of motion
- DC 5230Ring or little finger, limitation of motion
- DC 5235Vertebral fracture or dislocation
- DC 5236Sacroiliac injury and weakness
- DC 5237Lumbosacral or cervical strain
- DC 5238Spinal stenosis
- DC 5239Spondylolisthesis or segmental instability
- DC 5240Ankylosing spondylitis
Also: DC code lookup (tools) lists the same index in a compact layout.
Source: 38 CFR Part 4, Diagnostic Code 5228 • va.gov
⚠️ Important Disclaimer
This page provides general educational information based on public VA regulations and VA.gov resources. It is not legal or medical advice, and My Claim Packet is not a VA-accredited representative. Any worksheets or draft documents produced by the tools must be reviewed for accuracy and are not filed with VA for you. Ratings and service connection are decided case-by-case from the individual record. Consult a VA-accredited VSO, claims agent, attorney, or qualified clinician for help with your situation, and verify current rules using the linked official source.