Dupuytren's Contracture

DC 5226Musculoskeletal38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5226

Thickening of tissue in the palm causing fingers to bend inward and not fully straighten. The VA rates based on how much the contracture limits finger movement.

Rating Levels

You have extreme limitation of multiple fingers due to severe Dupuytren's contracture. Three or more fingers are contracted into unfavorable positions, causing near-total loss of hand grip function.

What the VA looks for

Three or more fingers with severe contracture
Near-total loss of hand grip function
Unfavorable ankylosis of multiple digits documented
Inability to perform fine motor tasks
Significant occupational impairment documented

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting which fingers are affected and the degree of contracture for each.
⚠Not reporting functional limitations (grip strength, ability to grasp objects).
⚠Missing the connection to hand trauma or vibration exposure during service.
⚠Not filing separately for each hand if bilateral.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Hand and Finger Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

Understand what the VA looks for at each rating level — loading conditions…