Forearm Amputation Below Elbow

DC 5124Musculoskeletal38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5124

Amputation of the forearm at a level below the elbow joint, removing the hand and part or all of the forearm while preserving the elbow. The exact rating depends on whether the amputation is above or below the pronator teres muscle insertion and whether it is the dominant or non-dominant arm. Elbow preservation allows better prosthetic control than above-elbow amputations.

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 5124

Rating range

60% – 80%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5124. 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 the forearm above the pronator teres on your dominant (major) side. This high forearm amputation near the elbow on the dominant arm causes severe functional loss and limits prosthetic effectiveness.

What the VA looks for

High forearm amputation on dominant arm documented
Loss of pronation and supination in addition to hand loss
Severe limitation of prosthetic function documented
Major occupational and daily living disability
Special monthly compensation eligibility documented

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not specifying the exact amputation level — the rating depends on whether the amputation is above or below the pronator teres muscle insertion. Operative reports must clearly document the amputation level.
⚠Not documenting dominant vs non-dominant arm — the rating varies by 10 percent based on hand dominance. Ensure medical records clearly identify which hand is dominant.
⚠Not claiming special monthly compensation (SMC) — forearm amputation qualifies for SMC-k at minimum. Make sure all applicable SMC entitlements are adjudicated.
⚠Not filing phantom limb pain as a separate secondary claim — phantom hand pain, tingling, or burning sensation should be documented and claimed as a separate neurological condition.
⚠Not documenting prosthetic fit issues — socket problems, skin breakdown, and functional limitations with the prosthetic should be recorded to support severity.

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…

Forearm Amputation Below Elbow

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 5124

Rating range

60% – 80%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

What the VA looks for

High forearm amputation on dominant arm documented
Loss of pronation and supination in addition to hand loss
Severe limitation of prosthetic function documented
Major occupational and daily living disability
Special monthly compensation eligibility documented

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not specifying the exact amputation level — the rating depends on whether the amputation is above or below the pronator teres muscle insertion. Operative reports must clearly document the amputation level.

⚠Not documenting dominant vs non-dominant arm — the rating varies by 10 percent based on hand dominance. Ensure medical records clearly identify which hand is dominant.

⚠Not claiming special monthly compensation (SMC) — forearm amputation qualifies for SMC-k at minimum. Make sure all applicable SMC entitlements are adjudicated.

⚠Not filing phantom limb pain as a separate secondary claim — phantom hand pain, tingling, or burning sensation should be documented and claimed as a separate neurological condition.

⚠Not documenting prosthetic fit issues — socket problems, skin breakdown, and functional limitations with the prosthetic should be recorded to support severity.