Ankle Instability

[CAVMSG]

I am trying to get all my facts straight before I send my request for a reconsideration on some of my SC 0% items. I have scoured the rating schedule and cannot seem to find anything on ankle instability. My original claim was for "R ankle DJD with instability, I was rated for "degenerative changes of R ankle". My problem is not so much that it hurts all the time, or that I have limited ROM, it is because I roll my ankle constantly (2 to 3 times per month), I can even get a slight sprain when taking my shoe off.

Thanks in advance for your assistance.

CAVMSG

[Hardtyme]

Perhaps there is link between ankle sprains Pes Planus?  I think I'll research this and post the result...if I can find this thread again.

[Dale Jr. 8]

The only things that I can find ratable on the ankle is decreases ROM and anklyosis. They are found in 38CFR 4.71a schedule of ratings musculoskeletal system. I have the same problem as you and mine is rated under the limited ROM catagory. DJ 8

[Berta]

If you search "ankle instability" at the BVA web site you will find many cases there that might help you-

does this come from any pes planus involvement?

or cause any problems with the arch of your foot?

Is it directly due to anything you get the 90% for?

Are you sure the DC code they gave you is correct?

[CAVMSG]

Thanks for the responses Dale Jr 8 and Berta. I cannot find the DC, is it usually in the award letter? I think I may have found some of the problem, the C&P exam stated there was no subluxation upon examination, lucky for me I have already been seen twice since by Ortho surgeon for the ankle, who stated it is extremely loose, using conservative therapy for now (phys therapy), however she has already talked surgery to correct stretched out ligaments.

Where can I find the DC codes that they used to rate each condition? How do you refute incorrect information in C&P exams, (IMO's ?).

Thanks for your help

CAVMSG

[Berta]

The DC in general for ankle is 5270

all DCs are on the rating sheet and in:

http://www.warms.vba.va.gov/regs/38CFR/BOO...T4/S4_app_c.DOC

"I have already been seen twice since by Ortho surgeon for the ankle, who stated it is extremely loose, using conservative therapy for now (phys therapy), however she has already talked surgery to correct stretched out ligaments."

Did the ortho surgeon document that?

You can rebutt the decision with this information in a reconsideration request.

I bet this info was not considered by the VA-maybe they didnt have this yet-when they made the decision.

[entropent]

There is no diagnostic code for ankle instability in the rating schedule. Raters will analogize ankle problems to the arthritis code, dc5003 or 5010, or for limitation of motion in the ankle, dc5271. Doesn't always fit the disability, as you have found out, but that is the practice.