Limited motion of fingers and thumb
Limited motion of fingers and thumb
What This Code Means
Receiving DQ code D221.40 means the DoDMERB physician reviewer determined that your medical history or exam findings related to limited motion of fingers and thumb do not currently meet Department of Defense accession standards as defined in DoDI 6130.03.
This does not end your candidacy. Many conditions flagged under this code are waiverable. The next step is understanding the exact standard that applies to your situation and whether a waiver request is appropriate for your commissioning source.
Official Regulation Text
From DoDI 6130.03-V1, “Medical Standards for Military Service,” Change 6 (February 3, 2026)
“History of spinal dysraphisms, including, but not limited to, spina bifida, meningocele, or myelomeningocele, unless the condition is asymptomatic and the defect involves fewer than 2 vertebral levels.”
“Spinal curvature: (1) History of symptomatic thoracic kyphosis (Scheuermann's disease) with a Cobb angle greater than 50 degrees. (2) History of scoliosis with a Cobb angle greater than 30 degrees, or with a Cobb angle between 20 and 30 degrees if the applicant is symptomatic. (3) History of lordosis that is symptomatic. (4) History of spinal fusion for correction of spinal curvature.”
“History of surgery for herniated disc, including, but not limited to, laminectomy, discectomy, or any type of spinal fusion, within the last 12 months, or with complications, residual symptoms, or objective neurological findings.”
Waiver Outlook for Musculoskeletal Conditions
Key Factors for Waiver Approval
- Documentation of full rehabilitation, strength, and agility
- No recurrent dislocations or chronic pain
- Full range of motion confirmed by orthopedic evaluation
- Active participation in competitive sports post-recovery
For scoliosis cases, the key threshold is the Cobb angle measurement. Having your own imaging and specialist evaluation ready — rather than relying solely on DoDMERB's assessment — can strengthen your case.
This condition is covered in depth in The Ultimate DoDMERB Handbook by LTC Kirkland & Capt Dach — including real success scenarios, remedial exam strategies, and the complete waiver playbook. Get the handbook →
Read Our Full Guide on Musculoskeletal Conditions
Learn how DoDMERB evaluates musculoskeletal conditions, common waiver scenarios, documentation tips, and what to expect throughout the process.
Read the musculoskeletal guide