The Wrist DBQ is measurement-driven. The examiner must record active and passive range of motion with a goniometer; the rating hinges on those exact degrees plus whether the wrist is ankylosed and in what position. Dominant-hand status also matters. Ratings are under 38 CFR § 4.71a, Diagnostic Codes 5214 (ankylosis) and 5215 (limitation of motion).
What the examiner is filling out
The Wrist DBQ requires the examiner to document:
- Diagnosis — ankylosis, limitation of motion, or specific wrist condition.
- Dominant hand — right or left, and whether the affected wrist is the dominant side.
- Range of motion — dorsiflexion and palmar flexion in degrees, active and passive, with pain noted at endpoints.
- Ankylosis — whether the wrist is fused, and if so, the position (favorable 20°–30° dorsiflexion vs. unfavorable palmar flexion or deviation).
- Functional impact — effect on daily activities and occupation.
The DC 5214 / 5215 schedule
Dorsiflexion less than 15° or palmar flexion limited in line with the forearm. Same rating for dominant or non-dominant.
Wrist ankylosed in 20°–30° dorsiflexion. 30% if dominant hand, 20% if non-dominant.
Ankylosis in any degree of palmar flexion, or with ulnar or radial deviation. 40% if dominant, 30% if non-dominant.
The phrases that map to each tier
Magic words for this tier
To establish limitation of motion (10%):
- “My wrist dorsiflexion stops at less than 15 degrees and I cannot bring my palm in line with my forearm.”
- “Goniometer measurements show active dorsiflexion of only X degrees with pain.”
Magic words for this tier
To establish favorable ankylosis (20%/30%):
- “My wrist is fused in approximately 25 degrees of dorsiflexion.”
- “I cannot flex or extend the wrist at all; it is locked in a functional position.”
Magic words for this tier
To establish unfavorable ankylosis (30%/40%):
- “My wrist is fused in palmar flexion with ulnar deviation.”
- “I cannot use the hand for gripping or pushing because the wrist is fixed in a non-functional position.”
Evidence that wins
Bring recent treatment records with goniometer measurements. A simple statement from your provider noting the exact degrees and pain on motion is stronger than a narrative alone. Buddy statements describing functional loss (dropping objects, inability to push open doors) help corroborate the measurements.
What NOT to say
What NOT to say
- “My wrist is pretty stiff but I can still move it a little.” (Vague — examiner needs numbers.)
- “It only hurts when I twist it hard.” (Suggests motion is not truly limited.)
- “I just favor the other hand.” (Undercuts dominant-hand impact.)
- “The fusion isn’t that bad.” (Minimizes unfavorable position.)
Use this with the rest of the site
- ▸ Wrist condition guide — the full rating schedule, evidence checklist, and tactical plays.
- ▸ C&P Exam Prep generator — builds a personalized checklist for your specific conditions.
- ▸ Claim Coach — walks you through the 10 steps including C&P prep at Step 7.
- ▸ Full C&P exam guide — the universal say/don’t-say rules that apply to every exam.
Educational content only. DBQ structures are public knowledge from M21-1 and archived sources; VA discontinued public DBQ distribution in 2020 but the rating criteria these forms map to remain in 38 CFR Part 4. Not legal or medical advice. Always consult a VA-accredited VSO or attorney for claim-specific guidance. CFR citations: 38 CFR § 4.71a Diagnostic Codes 5214 (ankylosis of wrist), 5215 (limitation of motion of wrist), § 4.40, § 4.45 (functional loss and pain on motion), § 4.59 (painful motion)..