VASRD 5124 · Musculoskeletal System

Loss of use of hand VA Disability Rating

Inability to use hand for normal function due to injury or disease.

VA Rating Tiers

RatingCriteria
70%Loss of use of one hand
100%Loss of both hands or amputation

How the VA Evaluates Loss of use of hand

Loss of grip, coordination, or function as verified by medical exam.

Approval rate

Very High

Annual service-connected

950 veterans

Average rating

70%

Best Evidence to Gather

  • Neurology report
  • Orthopedic surgery notes
  • Occupational therapy records

Strategy Tips

  • Use occupational therapist report
  • Document inability to perform basic tasks

C&P Exam Pitfalls

  • Misclassification as partial loss
  • Missing dexterity test

Common Filing Mistakes

  • Incomplete functional assessments
  • Lack of evidence on impact

Onset Patterns

  • Immediate post-trauma
  • Degenerative condition

Secondary Conditions

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

Common questions about Loss of use of hand

Is Loss of use of hand a VA-rated disability?
Yes. The VA rates Loss of use of hand under VASRD diagnostic code 5124 (Musculoskeletal System). Inability to use hand for normal function due to injury or disease.
What VA disability rating can I get for Loss of use of hand?
Possible VA ratings for Loss of use of hand are 70%, 100%. Examples: 70% — Loss of use of one hand; 100% — Loss of both hands or amputation.
What's the typical VA rating awarded for Loss of use of hand?
The average awarded rating for Loss of use of hand is 70%. Roughly 950 veterans are service-connected for Loss of use of hand each year. Typical approval likelihood: Very High.
What evidence helps prove Loss of use of hand for VA disability?
Strong evidence for a Loss of use of hand claim includes: Neurology report; Orthopedic surgery notes; Occupational therapy records.
What mistakes should veterans avoid when claiming Loss of use of hand?
Common pitfalls when filing for Loss of use of hand: Incomplete functional assessments; Lack of evidence on impact.
What conditions are commonly secondary to Loss of use of hand?
Conditions often service-connected as secondary to Loss of use of hand include: , , . Filing for secondary conditions can increase a veteran's combined VA rating.

Estimate your combined rating

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

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