Wrist and finger flexion muscles

Because the rating levels are defined by the criteria in § 4.56, evidence that reflects those criteria most directly will be relevant to your rating. Medical records documenting the nature of the original muscle injury — such as a wound, trauma, or surgery — help establish the condition. Examination findings showing reduced grip strength, limited ability to bend the wrist or fingers, muscle atrophy, scarring, or tenderness in the forearm and inner elbow area speak to severity. Findings about whether the affected arm is your dominant or nondominant arm are also relevant, since that distinction affects the rating at the moderately severe and severe levels.

Records showing how the injury limits your ability to use your hand and wrist during daily tasks or work — such as difficulty gripping, lifting, or performing fine motor tasks — can reflect the functional impact. Statements from you or people who know you describing these limitations in concrete terms can support what the medical records show.