All Toes Amputation (Without Metatarsal)

DC 5170Musculoskeletal38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5170

Amputation of all five toes on one foot without removal of the metatarsal bones. The metatarsal heads are preserved, maintaining the basic foot structure for weight bearing, but all toes are removed. This affects balance, push-off during walking, and overall foot function. The VA assigns a fixed 30 percent schedular rating.

How the VA rates this condition

This condition has a fixed rating under VA regulations. Unlike most conditions, the rating does not vary based on severity. If the VA grants service connection, the rating percentage is set by regulation.

Diagnostic code

DC 5170

Rating range

30% – 30%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5170. This guide presents a plain-language summary and is not a substitute for the full regulatory text. Always consult a VSO or VA-accredited attorney for case-specific advice.

Rating Levels

You have amputation of all toes on one foot without metatarsal involvement. The foot structure is preserved but you have lost all toes, affecting balance, push-off gait mechanics, and the ability to grip surfaces with your foot.

What the VA looks for

Surgical or trauma records of all-toes amputation on one foot
X-ray confirming all toes amputated with metatarsals preserved
Gait analysis showing loss of push-off and balance deficit
Need for shoe filler or prosthetic toe device documented
Impact on walking, running, and standing documented

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not distinguishing from metatarsal amputation — all-toes amputation without metatarsal loss (DC 5170, 30%) is rated differently from forefoot amputation with metatarsal involvement (DC 5167, 40%). X-rays must clearly show whether metatarsal bones were removed.
⚠Not claiming special monthly compensation (SMC) — if the remaining foot has lost effective function, you may qualify for loss-of-use determination and SMC-k benefits.
⚠Not filing phantom limb pain as a separate secondary claim — phantom toe pain, tingling, or sensation should be documented and may warrant a separate neurological rating.
⚠Not documenting prosthetic fit issues — toe fillers, modified shoes, and orthotic devices should be documented along with any skin breakdown or fitting difficulties.
⚠Not claiming secondary conditions — altered gait from toe loss commonly causes compensatory knee, hip, and back pain that should be claimed as secondary conditions.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Amputations

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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

All Toes Amputation (Without Metatarsal)

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 5170

Rating range

30% – 30%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

What the VA looks for

Surgical or trauma records of all-toes amputation on one foot
X-ray confirming all toes amputated with metatarsals preserved
Gait analysis showing loss of push-off and balance deficit
Need for shoe filler or prosthetic toe device documented
Impact on walking, running, and standing documented

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not distinguishing from metatarsal amputation — all-toes amputation without metatarsal loss (DC 5170, 30%) is rated differently from forefoot amputation with metatarsal involvement (DC 5167, 40%). X-rays must clearly show whether metatarsal bones were removed.

⚠Not claiming special monthly compensation (SMC) — if the remaining foot has lost effective function, you may qualify for loss-of-use determination and SMC-k benefits.

⚠Not filing phantom limb pain as a separate secondary claim — phantom toe pain, tingling, or sensation should be documented and may warrant a separate neurological rating.

⚠Not documenting prosthetic fit issues — toe fillers, modified shoes, and orthotic devices should be documented along with any skin breakdown or fitting difficulties.

⚠Not claiming secondary conditions — altered gait from toe loss commonly causes compensatory knee, hip, and back pain that should be claimed as secondary conditions.