Phantom Limb Pain

DC 8720Neurological38 CFR 4.124a, DC 8720

Pain that feels as if it is coming from a body part that has been amputated. Phantom limb pain is a neurological condition caused by misfiring nerves at the amputation site and is rated based on the severity of neuralgia.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on how much it affects your ability to work and carry out daily activities. The examiner will focus on the functional limitations your condition causes, not just the diagnosis itself.

Diagnostic code

DC 8720

Rating range

10% – 40%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.124a, DC 8720. 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

Complete neuralgia — your phantom limb pain is constant, excruciating, and completely disabling, not responsive to treatment.

What the VA looks for

Constant excruciating phantom pain
Refractory to all medical treatments including nerve blocks
Complete inability to concentrate or perform daily tasks due to pain
Severe psychological impact documented
Pain management specialist documentation of intractable pain

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not filing phantom limb pain as a separate neurological condition from the amputation itself — the amputation is rated under the musculoskeletal system, while phantom pain is a neurological condition rated under the peripheral nerve codes.
⚠Failing to document the frequency, duration, and intensity of phantom pain episodes in a pain diary — this objective evidence is crucial for supporting a higher rating.
⚠Not requesting evaluation for secondary mental health conditions — phantom limb pain commonly causes depression, anxiety, and insomnia that are independently ratable.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Peripheral Nerves 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 8720

Rating range

10% – 40%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

Complete neuralgia — your phantom limb pain is constant, excruciating, and completely disabling, not responsive to treatment.

What the VA looks for

Constant excruciating phantom pain
Refractory to all medical treatments including nerve blocks
Complete inability to concentrate or perform daily tasks due to pain
Severe psychological impact documented
Pain management specialist documentation of intractable pain

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not filing phantom limb pain as a separate neurological condition from the amputation itself — the amputation is rated under the musculoskeletal system, while phantom pain is a neurological condition rated under the peripheral nerve codes.

⚠Failing to document the frequency, duration, and intensity of phantom pain episodes in a pain diary — this objective evidence is crucial for supporting a higher rating.

⚠Not requesting evaluation for secondary mental health conditions — phantom limb pain commonly causes depression, anxiety, and insomnia that are independently ratable.