Diagnostic code
Diagnostic Code 5228: Thumb. Limitation of Motion Rating Criteria
- CFR section
- 38 CFR § 4.71a
- Rating range
- 0% to 20%
- Rating levels
- 3
- Body system
- Musculoskeletal system
The VA rates Thumb. Limitation of Motion under diagnostic code 5228 in 38 CFR § 4.71a. The table below is the full set of rating criteria, from the schedule itself, with the evidence factors raters look for at each level.
DC 5228 rating criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 0% | Gap less than 1 inch between thumb pad and fingers What raters look forless than 1 inch gap |
| 10% | Gap of 1-2 inches between thumb pad and fingers What raters look for1-2 inch gap |
| 20% | Gap of more than 2 inches between thumb pad and fingers What raters look formore than 2 inch gap |
Frequently asked questions
What is VA diagnostic code 5228?
Diagnostic code 5228 is the VA rating schedule entry for Thumb. Limitation of Motion, found in 38 CFR § 4.71a. The VA assigns this code when it rates the condition and applies the criteria listed on this page.
What ratings are possible under DC 5228?
DC 5228 provides ratings of 0%, 10%, 20%. The percentage depends on which criteria your medical evidence documents, not on the diagnosis alone.
What does the highest rating under DC 5228 require?
The 20% rating for Thumb. Limitation of Motion requires: Gap of more than 2 inches between thumb pad and fingers.
Other musculoskeletal system codes
All 39 musculoskeletal system codes →
Claim Raven is not legal or medical advice and is not an official VA application. Rating criteria are quoted from 38 CFR Part 4; the VA applies them to your specific record.
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