Diagnostic Code 5272 · 38 CFR §4.71a
The subtalar joint sits below the ankle joint between the talus and calcaneus bones. It controls the side-to-side rocking motion of the foot that allows you to walk on uneven surfaces. When this joint becomes fixed and immobile, your foot cannot adapt to different terrain, making walking on anything other than flat ground difficult and increasing the risk of ankle sprains. Subtalar ankylosis commonly results from severe fractures of the heel bone (calcaneus) or talus, which are injuries frequently seen in veterans who sustained falls or blast injuries.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 10% | |
| 20% |
Orthopedic records confirming loss of subtalar joint motion, Imaging showing joint fusion or destruction, Documentation of whether the foot is fixed in a favorable or unfavorable position, Records of the original injury or condition that caused the ankylosis, Functional assessment of walking ability on different surfaces