VASRD 5125 · Musculoskeletal System

Loss of use of both hands VA Disability Rating

Complete inability to use both hands due to injury or neurological damage.

VA Rating Tiers

RatingCriteria
100%Loss of use of both hands

How the VA Evaluates Loss of use of both hands

Function testing, neurological exam, occupational assessment.

Approval rate

Very High

Annual service-connected

750 veterans

Average rating

100%

Best Evidence to Gather

  • Grip strength test
  • Occupational therapy reports
  • MRI/CT

Strategy Tips

  • Use assistive device documentation
  • Include caregiver assessments

C&P Exam Pitfalls

  • Partial loss being misclassified
  • No assessment of daily living impact

Common Filing Mistakes

  • No functional documentation
  • Only one hand evaluated

Onset Patterns

  • Severe injury
  • Progressive neurological disorder

Secondary Conditions

Conditions commonly linked to Loss of use of both hands. Service-connecting a secondary condition can increase your combined rating.

Common questions about Loss of use of both hands

Is Loss of use of both hands a VA-rated disability?
Yes. The VA rates Loss of use of both hands under VASRD diagnostic code 5125 (Musculoskeletal System). Complete inability to use both hands due to injury or neurological damage.
What VA disability rating can I get for Loss of use of both hands?
Possible VA ratings for Loss of use of both hands are 100%. Examples: 100% — Loss of use of both hands.
What's the typical VA rating awarded for Loss of use of both hands?
The average awarded rating for Loss of use of both hands is 100%. Roughly 750 veterans are service-connected for Loss of use of both hands each year. Typical approval likelihood: Very High.
What evidence helps prove Loss of use of both hands for VA disability?
Strong evidence for a Loss of use of both hands claim includes: Grip strength test; Occupational therapy reports; MRI/CT.
What mistakes should veterans avoid when claiming Loss of use of both hands?
Common pitfalls when filing for Loss of use of both hands: No functional documentation; Only one hand evaluated.
What conditions are commonly secondary to Loss of use of both hands?
Conditions often service-connected as secondary to Loss of use of both hands include: , , . Filing for secondary conditions can increase a veteran's combined VA rating.

Estimate your combined rating

See how Loss of use of both hands combines with your other service-connected conditions using the official VA combined-ratings formula.

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