VASRD 5167 · Musculoskeletal - Functional Loss
Loss of Use of One Foot VA Disability Rating
This code applies when a foot is still physically present but no longer functions well enough for effective walking or balance, essentially treating the functional loss the same as if the foot had been amputated. It's a strict, single-tier standard - the foot has to be functionally unusable, not just painful or weak.
VA Rating Tiers
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 40% | The foot is still attached but is no longer usable. |
How the VA Evaluates Loss of Use of One Foot
Determined when no effective function remains despite motion or brace – often based on VA examination.
Approval outlook
High – especially when supported by use of cane, AFO brace, or scooter.
Veterans service-connected
~2,900 veterans
Typical rating awarded
~40%
Vetrify editorial estimates informed by VA published claims data (VBA Annual Benefits Report) and the VA rating schedule — not official VA statistics.
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Best Evidence to Gather
- •A VA exam specifically documenting the inability to balance or walk on the foot.
- •Physical therapy documentation showing attempted rehabilitation and its results.
- •Records of orthotic brace or wheelchair use.
Strategy Tips
- •Submit gait testing and rehabilitation notes together, since this rating depends on demonstrating genuine functional loss, not just a diagnosis or pain complaint.
- •Document all mobility tools in use, such as a wheelchair, scooter, or ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) brace, since consistent reliance on these devices supports the claim that the foot can't be effectively used.
C&P Exam Pitfalls
- •Overstating remaining function during the exam, which can undermine a genuinely severe claim.
- •Lack of gait analysis or documented assistive device use to support the functional-loss standard.
Common Filing Mistakes
- •Not describing daily mobility limits in concrete detail.
- •No confirmation of assistive device use, which is important evidence for this strict functional standard.
Onset Patterns
- •This condition typically results from severe nerve, muscle, or joint injury that leaves the foot structurally present but functionally unusable.
Secondary Conditions
Conditions commonly linked to Loss of Use of One Foot. Service-connecting a secondary condition can increase your combined rating.
Common questions about Loss of Use of One Foot
- Is Loss of Use of One Foot a VA-rated disability?
- Yes. The VA rates Loss of Use of One Foot under VASRD diagnostic code 5167 (Musculoskeletal - Functional Loss). This code applies when a foot is still physically present but no longer functions well enough for effective walking or balance, essentially treating the functional loss the same as if the foot had been amput…
- What VA disability rating can I get for Loss of Use of One Foot?
- Possible VA ratings for Loss of Use of One Foot are 40%. Examples: 40%: The foot is still attached but is no longer usable..
- What's the typical VA rating awarded for Loss of Use of One Foot?
- Vetrify estimates the typical rating awarded for Loss of Use of One Foot at around 40%, based on VA claims data and the rating schedule. An estimated 2,900 veterans are service-connected for Loss of Use of One Foot. Estimated approval outlook: High – especially when supported by use of cane, AFO brace, or scooter.
- What evidence helps prove Loss of Use of One Foot for VA disability?
- Strong evidence for a Loss of Use of One Foot claim includes: A VA exam specifically documenting the inability to balance or walk on the foot.; Physical therapy documentation showing attempted rehabilitation and its results.; Records of orthotic brace or wheelchair use..
- What mistakes should veterans avoid when claiming Loss of Use of One Foot?
- Common pitfalls when filing for Loss of Use of One Foot: Not describing daily mobility limits in concrete detail.; No confirmation of assistive device use, which is important evidence for this strict functional standard..
- What conditions are commonly secondary to Loss of Use of One Foot?
- Conditions often service-connected as secondary to Loss of Use of One Foot include: Knee or Hip Pain. Filing for secondary conditions can increase a veteran's combined VA rating.
Official sources
- 38 CFR § 4.71a — Schedule of ratings — musculoskeletal system (Diagnostic Code 5167)
Rating criteria on this page are an educational summary of the cited regulation — the eCFR text is authoritative. See how Vetrify derives its numbers.
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