Primary service-connected condition

DC 5271 — Ankle, limited motion

Also known as: Ankle, ankle pain, limited ankle motion, ankle injury, ankle arthritis, ankle sprain

Mapped secondary conditions
4

These are commonly claimed secondary connections linked to this primary disability. Use them as a screening tool for conversations with your doctor, VSO, or VA-accredited attorney.

Primary → Secondary

Ankle, limited motion → Knee, other impairment

5257
Strong

How the connection is commonly explained

Ankle injuries alter gait mechanics, stressing the knee

Filing tip

File as a secondary claim to DC 5271 (Ankle, limited motion). Provide medical records showing ankle injuries alter gait mechanics, stressing the knee and request a nexus opinion linking Knee, other impairment to your service-connected condition.

Relationship type: Caused by
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Primary → Secondary

Ankle, limited motion → Plantar fasciitis

5269
Strong

How the connection is commonly explained

Ankle instability changes foot mechanics

Filing tip

File as a secondary claim to DC 5271 (Ankle, limited motion). Provide medical records showing ankle instability changes foot mechanics and request a nexus opinion linking Plantar fasciitis to your service-connected condition.

Relationship type: Caused by
View condition detail
Primary → Secondary

Ankle, limited motion → Lumbosacral or cervical strain

5237
Moderate

How the connection is commonly explained

Gait compensation from ankle injuries affects spinal alignment

Filing tip

File as a secondary claim to DC 5271 (Ankle, limited motion). Provide medical records showing gait compensation from ankle injuries affects spinal alignment and request a nexus opinion linking Lumbosacral or cervical strain to your service-connected condition.

Relationship type: Caused by
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Primary → Secondary

Ankle, limited motion → Major depressive disorder

9434
Moderate

How the connection is commonly explained

Chronic ankle pain and mobility limitations

Filing tip

File as a secondary claim to DC 5271 (Ankle, limited motion). Provide medical records showing chronic ankle pain and mobility limitations and request a nexus opinion linking Major depressive disorder to your service-connected condition.

Relationship type: Caused by
View condition detail

This condition may also be secondary to

Knee, other impairment
DC 5257
Moderate

Gait compensation affects ankle mechanics and can lead to chronic ankle pain.

Open map Primary detail
Leg, limitation of extension
DC 5261
Moderate

Changes in gait from knee dysfunction commonly place extra stress on the ankle.

Open map Primary detail
Leg, limitation of flexion
DC 5260
Moderate

Compensation for limited knee motion can place extra stress on the ankle.

Open map Primary detail
Plantar fasciitis
DC 5269
Moderate

Foot conditions alter ankle mechanics

Open map Primary detail

How to File a Secondary Claim

1. Have your primary condition already service-connected.
2. Get diagnosed with the secondary condition.
3. Get a nexus letter from a doctor linking them.
4. File VA Form 21-526EZ and select the claim as a secondary claim.
5. Attend the C&P exam if one is scheduled.

Disclaimer: Secondary connections shown are based on commonly established medical links. Individual claims require medical evidence. Consult a VSO or VA-accredited attorney.