Finger Amputation Residuals

DC 5152Musculoskeletal38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5152

Residual conditions from the amputation of one or more fingers. The VA rating depends on which fingers are amputated, the level of amputation, and whether the dominant or non-dominant hand is affected.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on objective clinical measurements and test results. The examiner will use standardized tests or lab values to determine the severity of your condition rather than relying primarily on subjective symptom reports.

Diagnostic code

DC 5152

Rating range

10% – 70%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5152. 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 four or more fingers on the dominant hand, or combined amputations including the thumb and multiple fingers, resulting in near-total loss of hand function.

What the VA looks for

Four or more fingers amputated
Near-total loss of hand function
Complete grip and pinch loss on affected hand
Documented need for prosthetic hand
Total occupational hand impairment documented

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting the exact level of each amputation — the rating percentage depends specifically on which phalanx or joint level the amputation occurred at, so precise X-ray documentation is essential.
⚠Not specifying dominant vs. non-dominant hand — ratings are higher for the dominant (major) hand, and the C&P examiner must record this in the report.
⚠Failing to claim residual stump pain and phantom pain as separate issues — painful amputation stumps and phantom limb sensations can warrant additional ratings under the neurological codes.
⚠Not documenting the functional impact on grip, pinch, and fine motor activities — even a single finger amputation can significantly affect your ability to work, and these limitations must be recorded.

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…

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 5152

Rating range

10% – 70%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have amputation of four or more fingers on the dominant hand, or combined amputations including the thumb and multiple fingers, resulting in near-total loss of hand function.

What the VA looks for

Four or more fingers amputated
Near-total loss of hand function
Complete grip and pinch loss on affected hand
Documented need for prosthetic hand
Total occupational hand impairment documented

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting the exact level of each amputation — the rating percentage depends specifically on which phalanx or joint level the amputation occurred at, so precise X-ray documentation is essential.

⚠Not specifying dominant vs. non-dominant hand — ratings are higher for the dominant (major) hand, and the C&P examiner must record this in the report.

⚠Failing to claim residual stump pain and phantom pain as separate issues — painful amputation stumps and phantom limb sensations can warrant additional ratings under the neurological codes.

⚠Not documenting the functional impact on grip, pinch, and fine motor activities — even a single finger amputation can significantly affect your ability to work, and these limitations must be recorded.