VASRD 5117 · Amputations and Functional Loss

Loss of Use of Both Upper Extremities VA Disability Rating

This means you’ve lost functional control of both arms due to injury, paralysis, or disease.

VA Rating Tiers

RatingCriteria
100%You can't use either arm to do everyday tasks like dressing or eating.

How the VA Evaluates Loss of Use of Both Upper Extremities

Determined when upper extremities lack any effective function, such as inability to grip, lift, or rotate the arm.

Approval rate

High – well-supported when backed by physical limitations and assistive device use.

Annual service-connected

75 veterans

Average rating

100%

Best Evidence to Gather

  • •Occupational therapy reports
  • •C&P exam noting full loss of arm/hand function
  • •Documentation of use of electric wheelchair or full assistance

Strategy Tips

  • •Document how you perform (or can't perform) hygiene, dressing, etc.
  • •Use buddy statements if caregivers assist with daily needs

C&P Exam Pitfalls

  • •Demonstrating minor movement during exam
  • •Lack of assistive device documentation

Common Filing Mistakes

  • •Claiming without functional documentation
  • •Omitting daily living limitations

Onset Patterns

  • •Seen in advanced MS, spinal injuries, or severe bilateral upper limb trauma

Secondary Conditions

Conditions commonly linked to Loss of Use of Both Upper Extremities. Service-connecting a secondary condition can increase your combined rating.

  • Rotator Cuff Injury

    Overcompensation or degenerative joint use

  • PTSD

    Loss of independence in upper body control

Common questions about Loss of Use of Both Upper Extremities

Is Loss of Use of Both Upper Extremities a VA-rated disability?
Yes. The VA rates Loss of Use of Both Upper Extremities under VASRD diagnostic code 5117 (Amputations and Functional Loss). This means you’ve lost functional control of both arms due to injury, paralysis, or disease.
What VA disability rating can I get for Loss of Use of Both Upper Extremities?
Possible VA ratings for Loss of Use of Both Upper Extremities are 100%. Examples: 100% — You can't use either arm to do everyday tasks like dressing or eating..
What's the typical VA rating awarded for Loss of Use of Both Upper Extremities?
The average awarded rating for Loss of Use of Both Upper Extremities is 100%. Roughly 75 veterans are service-connected for Loss of Use of Both Upper Extremities each year. Typical approval likelihood: High – well-supported when backed by physical limitations and assistive device use..
What evidence helps prove Loss of Use of Both Upper Extremities for VA disability?
Strong evidence for a Loss of Use of Both Upper Extremities claim includes: Occupational therapy reports; C&P exam noting full loss of arm/hand function; Documentation of use of electric wheelchair or full assistance.
What mistakes should veterans avoid when claiming Loss of Use of Both Upper Extremities?
Common pitfalls when filing for Loss of Use of Both Upper Extremities: Claiming without functional documentation; Omitting daily living limitations.
What conditions are commonly secondary to Loss of Use of Both Upper Extremities?
Conditions often service-connected as secondary to Loss of Use of Both Upper Extremities include: Rotator Cuff Injury, PTSD. Filing for secondary conditions can increase a veteran's combined VA rating.

Estimate your combined rating

See how Loss of Use of Both Upper Extremities combines with your other service-connected conditions using the official VA combined-ratings formula.

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