Diagnostic Code 5270 · 38 CFR §4.71a
Ankle ankylosis means the ankle joint is permanently fixed and has no movement. This typically results from severe fractures, advanced arthritis, surgical fusion, or infection that destroyed the joint. When the ankle cannot move, walking requires compensation from the knee, hip, and foot joints. The position in which the ankle is fixed determines the severity rating because certain positions allow for more functional walking than others.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 20% | |
| 30% | |
| 40% |
Orthopedic records confirming complete absence of ankle motion, Documentation of the exact position in which the ankle is fixed, Imaging showing joint fusion or destruction, Surgical records if the ankylosis resulted from a fusion procedure, Functional assessment describing impact on walking and standing