Thumb, long and little (DC 5136)

Body system: Musculoskeletal SystemRegulation: 38 CFR § 4.71a

This diagnostic code covers conditions affecting your thumb, long finger (middle finger), and little finger (pinky). The VA uses a single 50% rating for this specific combination when all three fingers are significantly impacted by the same condition or injury. This is a fairly high rating that recognizes how losing function in these particular fingers together seriously affects your ability to grip, grasp, and perform fine motor tasks with your hand.

Rating levels

  • 60% — If you've lost your thumb, long, and little fingers on your dominant hand, you receive a 60% rating. On the non-dominant hand the same amputation rates at 50%. VA treats the hand you write with as your "major" (dominant) hand; the other is your "minor" (non-dominant) hand, and ratings are 10% lower because loss of function on the non-dominant side is considered less disabling.
  • 50% — If you've lost your thumb, long, and little fingers on your non-dominant hand, you receive a 50% rating. On the dominant hand the same amputation rates at 60%. VA treats the hand you write with as your "major" (dominant) hand; the other is your "minor" (non-dominant) hand, and ratings are 10% lower because loss of function on the non-dominant side is considered less disabling.

Disclaimer: This tool is for informational purposes only and is not legal or medical advice. Always consult with your VSO representative or a qualified veterans benefits attorney for guidance on your specific claim.